Full Breakdown
Farihah Zaman Appointed Artistic Director of True/False Film Festival
2/28/2026, 11:56:53 AM
New Leadership at True/False
Farihah Zaman has been appointed as the new artistic director of the True/False Film Festival, a prominent documentary film festival held annually in Columbia, Missouri. The announcement was made by the Ragtag Film Society, the nonprofit organization responsible for the festival, which will celebrate its 23rd edition from March 5-8, 2026. Zaman succeeds Yance Ford, who is serving as the Visiting Artistic Director for this year's festival following the departure of Chloé Trayner.
Zaman, a queer Bangladeshi-American filmmaker and curator, has a notable background in the film industry, having previously worked as the production manager at Field of Vision and as the Director of Grants and Fellowships at Brown Girls Doc Mafia. Her experience includes developing fellowships that support underrepresented filmmakers. Andrea Luque Káram, Executive Director of the Ragtag Film Society, expressed confidence in Zaman's ability to lead the festival, highlighting her passion for curatorial innovation and community engagement.
Festival Highlights and Programming
The upcoming True/False Film Festival promises an engaging lineup, featuring 21 world premieres, three U.S. premieres, and four North American premieres among a total of 62 selected films from approximately 1,500 submissions globally. The festival aims to transform Columbia into a vibrant hub for documentary film lovers, showcasing a diverse range of topics and artistic expressions.
Luque Káram emphasized the festival's commitment to honoring its legacy while embracing new creative directions. This year, the festival will utilize six venues, increasing audience capacity and enhancing the overall experience. Notable films include "American Doctor," which focuses on medical professionals in Gaza, and "First They Came for My College," which explores student activism in response to a conservative takeover at a Florida college.
Community Engagement and Volunteer Support
The True/False Film Festival is characterized by its community-driven approach, with numerous volunteers contributing to its success. Volunteers receive training and are encouraged to engage with festival attendees, fostering a sense of connection among participants. The festival also features various events, including a community parade and art walks, designed to enhance the overall experience for attendees.
Official Statements & Responses
Yance Ford praised Zaman's appointment, stating, "Farihah brings a clear point of view, deep experience across curation and artist support, and an understanding of the Midwest as a place with its own cultural force." Zaman herself remarked on the festival's significance, noting, "The creative, social, and political ethos of True/False has shaped how I think about art and community building since I first attended in 2012."
Criticism & Opposition
While the festival has garnered widespread support, some critics may question the balance between maintaining traditional elements and introducing new voices and perspectives. The challenge lies in ensuring that the festival remains true to its roots while evolving to meet contemporary artistic and social demands.
What's Next
As the festival approaches, anticipation builds around Zaman's leadership and the innovative programming planned for this year. The True/False Film Festival aims to continue its tradition of celebrating documentary filmmaking while fostering community engagement and artistic exploration.
