RAYD8 Film Festival to debut Sept. 19 in Marina del Rey
RAYD8 Film Festival will launch Sept. 19, 2026, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Marina del Rey with screenings, panels and an awards gala. The event is designed to give independent filmmakers more than a showcase, adding networking and distribution opportunities through RAYD8 TV.
Why it matters: - RAYD8 is pitching itself as a festival built to help independent filmmakers move projects beyond a single weekend. - The event aims to connect creators with distributors, media professionals, brands and industry decision-makers. - The festival’s link to RAYD8 TV is positioned as a path to wider audience reach and possible distribution.
What happened: - RAYD8 Film Festival will debut Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Marina del Rey, California. - The festival’s main event will include feature and short film screenings, industry panels, red carpet arrivals and the RAYD8 Awards Gala. - The celebration begins Friday, Sept. 18, with an Opening Night Mixer at Coco Beach Bar and Grill. - Tickets are on sale now, and more information is available at RAYD8TV.com.
The details: - The festival is built around four pillars: Educate, Celebrate, Connect and Elevate. - The official panelist lineup includes Sensei Ron Thomas, Kat Kramer, Chris Mulkey, Kirkland Morris, Jasper Cole, Jamie Ohlsen, Trae Ireland, Sherrie Price Clark, Jonathan Mankuta, Danielle Napier, Amy Prenner, Vida Ghaffari, Joseph Williamson, Jerry Lee Davis and Nolan Rhys Elias. - Neil “The Media Giant” Haley will serve as emcee. - The Opening Night Mixer will feature networking, film showcases and creative connection. - RAYD8 describes the weekend as a place where filmmakers, actors, producers, distributors, media professionals, brands and audiences can meet.
Between the lines: - The festival is trying to distinguish itself from traditional film events by tying recognition to practical industry access. - That approach suggests a focus on distribution and career momentum, not just awards and screenings. - The RAYD8 TV connection is central to the festival’s value proposition.
What's next: - The next milestone is the Sept. 18 mixer, followed by the Sept. 19 main event in Marina del Rey. - Organizers say the festival will continue using screenings, awards and industry conversations to elevate new voices. - The festival also plans to keep building distribution pathways through RAYD8 TV.
The bottom line: - RAYD8 Film Festival is launching as both a showcase and a business platform for independent filmmakers.
Disclaimer: This article was produced by AGP Wire with the assistance of artificial intelligence based on original source content and has been refined to improve clarity, structure, and readability. This content is provided on an “as is” basis. While care has been taken in its preparation, it may contain inaccuracies or omissions, and readers should consult the original source and independently verify key information where appropriate. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, investment, or other professional advice.
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