The 2026 edition of the Matinee Two program presents very distinctly human stories told in a variety of ways. People searching for connections, survival, advancement and closure amongst other deeply felt things. Many different worlds and environments are explored and it’s fascinating to watch this group of individuals navigate and move through the real and imagined worlds they dwell in.

Q&A moderated by Shay Filmore, Film Programmer

ALPHABET BACKWARDS
Taryn Ward, 12 min., NYC premiere
A wandering porn addict attempts to write the next great American novel. After many lonely miles traveled, inspiration is found in an unlikely friendship.

I Love You So Much But You Are So Difficult
Berenicé Brino, 13 min.
Through a collaborative art performance and open dialogue, a daughter-mother duo explore their tense and nuanced relationship.

Kasey Cartoon
Veronica Kedar, 10 min.
Since diversity is dead in media, Veronica the animator decides to kill off Kasey, one of her diverse cartoons. But Kasey is not going anywhere without a fight.

Dear Shop Girl
Nira Burstein, 14 min.
A quirky vintage shop owner, who’s behind on her rent, contends with a new customer searching for the outfit he’ll wear when he kills himself.

Bent
Sam B. Jones, 17 min., world premiere
A boy from a family of demolition derby drivers tries to prove himself by competing in his first derby, but finds the validation he’s seeking is elusive.

Good Neighbors Care
Kate E. Hinshaw, 3 min., NYC premiere
A chemical company in North Carolina promises environmental stewardship, while neighbors suffer due to the ecological disaster they caused.

Nuke
Kelsea Bauman-Murphy, 13 min.
A struggling comedian forces herself onto the lineup of New York’s most coveted comedy showcase, using the fallout of a nuclear missile alert to her advantage.

Wholesome
Kimmy Campbell, 12 min., world premiere
After accidentally breaking into their favorite deli when it closes without notice, two friends attempt to recreate the home they once found.