The 2026 Bentonville Film Festival [BFF] transcended cinema, offering a vibrant platform where diverse talent, creative stories, and heartfelt missions converge. From volunteers and producers to writers and community advocates, we’re spotlighting a few local voices who helped bring the festival’s mission to life. These individuals represent the breadth of influence film can have on our community; proof that when decision makers recognize the significance of attracting projects, funding stories, and promoting local talent, we stand to boost Bentonville's economy and industry presence on a national stage.
Tom Hoehn, Digital Marketing Exec, Downtown Bentonville Resident
"I have been involved with BFF in various capacities in each of its 12 years, and I love the energy it brings to Bentonville. I always get a charge out of seeing our town through a visiting filmmaker's eyes as they experience this place. For many, it is their first time in Arkansas. BFF's mission of showcasing women and diverse voices in film is important, and it has been wonderful to witness its growing national attention in the industry.”
Twilla Brooks, BFF Communications & PR Liaison
“In 2026, BFF expanded conversations that inspired action, celebrated extraordinary creative voices, and strengthened partnerships that will have a lasting impact beyond the festival. Seeing our theaters, panels, Coffee Talks, and community events filled with such incredible energy reminded us that storytelling has the power to build connections and create change. We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, filmmakers, partners, volunteers, and the Bentonville community for making this year's festival one to remember."
Allyson de la Houssaye, Founder/Producer, AWAL Productions
"As a longtime attendee of BFF–from being there in its inaugural year to winning the Audience Choice Award last year for my film Ridge to River–it's been incredible to watch the festival continue to grow into its own. This year, I had the opportunity to support that growth by moderating a panel during the festival's expanding STEAM Day programming. Two screenings stood out: Local producer Kelly Rohrbach Walton's Baby/Girls and Jennifer Siebel Newsom's Miss Representation: Rise Up shared a powerful through line–the realities women in the U.S. [and particularly some in Arkansas] face as they navigate the systems that shape their futures, at the same time reminding us we are all invited to help shape change.”
John Shoffner, Gnargo Bike Co.
"Cycling Without Age is a documentary short that highlights the joy cycling can add to anyone’s life, regardless of their ability. In Bentonville, we are always thinking of new ways to bring that joy to as many people as possible, which is why Gnargo created the Trishaw [used in the film]. We are so inspired by the amazing work John Boettner is doing with the Cycling Without Age organization, using the Trishaw, and grateful that the Bentonville Film Festival wanted to help us share this story with the NWA community!”
Danielle Keller, Owner, Peekaboo Magazine
“BFF is part of my story. I graduated from college in 2007 with a cinema degree, and in 2016, I volunteered at BFF, which led me to meet inspirational filmmakers who told me it wasn't too late to get back into film and media. These conversations reminded me that my dreams were still within reach; dreams that led me back into media–from documentary and short films to writing again, podcasting, and owning a magazine. This year, it was a joy to attend in a new capacity. Press pass in hand, I was ready to showcase why this festival is one you don't want to miss.”
Amanda Horn, APR, Principal, Iris Advisory LLC.
"BFF is a treasure for our community. I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with the festival in a few different capacities over the years, and watching the work inspire our residents while drawing significant national attention is a gift! The creativity and community engagement are palpable. I can't wait to see what the future brings."
"BFF is a year-long initiative that champions inclusion in all aspects of entertainment media. The BFFoundation believes that by taking real action with content creators, talent, influencers, advertisers, and content distributors, we can accurately reflect the gender balance and diversity of our country." – BFFoundation