AIFF schedules a Sept. 17 screening of the documentary ‘Speak’ at the Varsity Theatre as part of its monthly film series
By Jim Flint for Ashland.news
The Ashland Independent Film Festival is moving forward on two fronts this fall: keeping audiences engaged with a lively monthly screening series and welcoming longtime programmer Aura Johnson as its new director of programming.
Johnson has been with AIFF since 2012 and previously shared the programming responsibilities with Richard Herskowitz, who will assist the organization as curator of special programs.
Nicole Gullixson — a videographer, designer and storyteller with a passion for independent film — continues as the organization’s managing director. Johnson praised Gullixson as a creative partner who brings “so much enthusiasm and style.”
Keeping the momentum
AIFF bounced back from the post-pandemic blues with a well-attended, successful spring festival. It is now working on a plan to schedule monthly public events or screenings as a way to keep momentum and community engagement going. Some events will be held at the Varsity Theatre. Some will be at other venues, including the AIFF Film Center downtown and Southern Oregon University.
“It’s all about having fun!” Johnson said. “Coming together, sharing experiences, and getting inspired are what keeps us motivated.”
The September selection, “Speak,” screens Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Varsity, 166 E. Main St. in Ashland. The documentary chronicles high school speech and debate students competing nationally in original oratory.
“Their speeches are truly incredible and really give you faith in the next generation,” Johnson said. “These kids are sharp, well spoken and full of heart.”
Tickets for the screening can be purchased here on the Varsity website.
October spotlight film
On Oct. 11, SOU will host a screening of Maureen Gosling’s documentary “The Nine Lives of Barbara Dane.” The film features appearances by Bonnie Raitt, Louis Armstrong and Jane Fonda. Danny Glover and AIFF alum DD Wigley (“Suburban Fury”) are executive producers.
“It’s an incredible story about the power of music and a musical activist many people may not know,” Johnson said. “It’s astounding.”
There will be a Q&A with the director following the screening at the SOU Music Recital Hall, 450 S. Mountain Ave., Ashland. Tickets will be available beginning the last week of September.
Continuing the vision
Johnson valued her collaboration with Herskowitz but is now taking on the role independently. Of Herskowitz, she said, “He has a deep love for innovation and experimentation in the realm of filmmaking, which is truly at the core of what it means to be ‘independent.’ Big shoes to fill.”
Building on that foundation, Johnson said she is excited to guide AIFF into its next chapter.
“I really feel honored to be in this position, and extremely privileged to get to work in the arts right now. AIFF has a history of excellence in programming, and I’m excited to continue that tradition.”
In addition to working with Herskowitz, Johnson also worked under former programming director Joanne Feinberg.
“Joanne taught me that it’s really important to remember the heart of the matter, which is story,” she said.
In a statement, the board of directors commended the trio for helping drive AIFF’s successful resurgence.
“Each has a long history of supporting the festival, but what makes this team extraordinary is their shared willingness to reimagine what a festival can look like in a post-COVID world,” the statement said.
Herskowitz, who retired as artistic director in 2023 and has since moved out of the area, returned to assist with programming over the last three years. He praised Johnson, saying, “I have so much respect for her taste and her programming skills.”
In his new role, Herskowitz will advise and reinforce programming with the kinds of special guests, film premieres and “live cinema” events he loves bringing to Ashland.
“Although I live on the East Coast now, it’s impossible to resist the opportunity to come back to Ashland every spring,” he said.
Sound roots in film
To her new role at AIFF, Johnson brings a unique background from her earlier career in post-production sound at Skywalker Sound, Zoetrope and the Saul Zaentz Film Center.
“When you understand all of the tools being used to further a story, it really fine tunes your critical thinking skills,” she said. “You notice and understand how the score is amplifying your emotional response, or how the lighting makes you feel about a character.”
Her passion for independent film dates back to her college years making short films.
“There is a rebellious and scrappy work ethic that is inherent to making independent cinema that I really love and admire,” she said.
Looking ahead, Johnson is preparing for AIFF’s milestone 25th festival in April 2026. Submissions will be received starting Sept. 25. The festival, she said, will continue to shine a spotlight on recurring themes such as social justice, art, environment and activism, while remaining open to whatever unexpected themes emerge from the year’s submissions.
“When we are our most authentic selves and put that into our creative works, those works become precious and interesting and innovative,” Johnson said.
As both a film programmer and co-owner of the Ashland Fly Shop, Johnson is deeply connected to the community she serves.
“I like to believe that stories create connection, and that within connection there is hope,” she said.
For updates on screenings, events, and next year’s festival, visit ashlandfilm.org.
Freelance writer Jim Flint is a retired newspaper publisher and editor. Email him at [email protected].
