Every year thousands flock to Asbury Park to experience its vibrant arts community, energetic music scene and array of diverse restaurants. Although spring has just begun, preparations for one of the city’s largest entertainment events of the season has been in the works for months.
For more than two decades, the annual Garden State Film Festival (GSFF) has drawn filmmakers and industry talent from across the world. The four-day festival is a celebration of the art of film and live television.
Since its founding in 2002, GSFF has upheld its mission to elevate films of all kinds, including videos, screenplays, and animated works. From documentaries and romantic dramas to horror and competition films, every genre and category is given an opportunity to shine.
Now in its 24th year, GSFF attracts film enthusiasts, aspiring filmmakers, and industry professionals alike. Attendees have the chance to experience films that have yet to achieve distribution and attend Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and workshops to gain insight into the creator’s artistic process. Those who wish to break into the industry are given a unique opportunity to connect with professionals and showcase their work. Networking opportunities, including filmmaker breakfasts and live podcasting give young talent a chance to make an impression. The annual festival packs a myriad of different events into just four days and this year is no exception. From a gala reception, an awards banquet, and even competitions featuring celebrities, there is sure to be an event for every attendee to enjoy.
Executive Director Lauren Concar Sheehy has been with the festival since its inception and oversees the day to day operations. She understands the festival’s reach and its ability to effectuate change and bring communities together.
“We showcase cinema that connects from local communities to national conversations, and bridges local stories with universal themes," Concar-Sheehy said. “There are always films that change people’s lives…it gives you a moment to comprehend how cinema
changes lives…” Indeed it has. Medical documentaries that have been shown at past festivals have now been used to save lives.
The GSFF’s impact extends beyond just the movie screen. The festival expands tourism to Asbury Park, normally drawing a crowd of more than 20,000. The local businesses often partake in the fun, hosting festival parties, gatherings, and happy hours. Neighboring shops, hotels, and restaurants experience a major increase in business.
There’s a lot that goes into planning such a successful event. Preparation begins almost one year in advance, with film submissions opening on May 1st and closing on December 1st each year. Once all submissions are reviewed and selections are finalized, the real work begins. Tasks such as gathering volunteers, advertising in nearby regions, contacting sponsors, and organizing with venues are necessary to prepare for the big weekend.
As soon as the festival ends, the team meets to gather feedback, and preparation for the following year’s festival begins almost immediately.
Concar-Sheehy recalls a pivotal moment in the festival’s history: the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown. Despite the worldwide shut down, the Garden State Film Festival persevered, executing on time without postponements or cancellations. In less than two weeks, the team created a virtual festival that was live streamed globally.
Heather Brittain, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for GSFF, loves the spirit and sense of community that the festival brings. Having been involved with GSFF for more than a decade, she also remembers the festival’s impact during the pandemic.
“While the world was shutting down, we had a sense of purpose—bringing people together and lifting spirits through independent film.”
In 2021, GSFF hosted a hybrid festival, with a mix of virtual and in person events, abiding by the
restrictions that were in place at the time.
“Despite the restrictions, the energy was electric,” Brittain recalled. “People were just so grateful to be watching films in person again—together. That human connection is what it’s all about.”
A festival as intricate as the GSFF would be impossible without a loyal group of volunteers. Thankfully, the organization has no shortage of helping hands. For Lori Hyman, volunteering at the GSFF has become a family affair. Hyman’s husband and son have volunteered with her at the festival for years, and she is now in charge of running some of the volunteer operations. Hyman believes everyone, even those who do not have an interest in film, can benefit from attending the festival.
“It’s not about necessarily being involved in film.” Hyman said. You come down and from the second you get there, we have so many different things that you could do, and fun events. It’s a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone if you’re not a film person.”
With so many activities for visitors to enjoy, Hyman believes the festival’s location in Asbury Park makes it all the more exciting.
“You can see movies, you can go to different events…then you can also walk around Asbury Park…You have the town, you have the boardwalk. And then you could experience restaurants.”
If you’re in the area at the end of March and in need of an outing, consider attending this year’s Garden State Film Festival.
“Come experience something different,” Brittain says. “Meet rising filmmakers and talent. Watch films you won’t find on Prime Video and rediscover what cinema is truly capable of.”
The 2026 Garden State Film Festival will be held March 26th-29th. More information, including tickets
and schedules, can be found by visiting https://www.gsff.org//.
Come experience something different. Meet rising filmmakers and talent. Watch films you won’t find on Prime Video and rediscover what cinema is truly capable of.
Veteran makeup artist Joseph Cola, who has worked on such acclaimed series as "Boardwalk Empire," "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" and such films as "The Wolf of Wall Street" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," will detail his experiences as the festival's keynote speaker. The four-time Emmy Award winner, who will speak on March 24 at Robert J. Collins Arena at Brookdale Community College, has worked on more than 25 films.
The event is a Community-Based Instruction program offering students an opportunity to engage with industry professionals and explore careers in film.