Rocky Mountain
Deaf Film Festival
Junior Rocky Mountain Deaf Film Festival
JR. RMDFF proudly hosted its second biennial event at the Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind and virtually online on March 13, 2025, from 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM MST. The event was a great success, inspiring students to explore film production and share their creative experiences.
The highlight of the event was our keynote presenter, CJ Jones, who captivated the audience with his wisdom and personal journey. Students were eager to engage and learn from his experiences.
Throughout the day, we screened 27 films, including short films, ASL Literature films, and honorable mentions. It was truly inspiring to witness the amazing team of Deaf youth filmmakers showcase their creativity and storytelling.
We can't wait to see you at our next event in 2027 and celebrate even more Deaf films!
Best ASL Literature Film: ASL Poetry "Deaf Solidarity"
by Sophia D'Angelo from Kansas School for the Deaf
Sophia D'Angelo is student at Kansas School for the Deaf (KSD). In her ASL poetry piece, she incorporates the handshapes 1, 2, and 5, using repetition to enhance her message. Her poem explores the experiences of the Deaf community in society and the ongoing revolution toward Deaf solidarity.
Best ASL Literature Film: Handshapes Stories
by Chloe Cummings from CSDB (Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind)
Chloe Cummings is a senior at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind. She signed an ASL LIT story using the letters I LOVE YOU. Her story involves being in a relationship, proposed to and turning that down. In reaction the partner cries out and asks the Universe, WHY?
Best ASL Literature Film: Number Stories
by Raina Gale from CSDB (Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind)
Raina is a 10th grade student attending Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind. She signs an ASL LIT story 1 - 10 about the Chinese New Year celebration, the year of the snake. Mentioning how people come together and celebrate with fireworks and jumping dancers in the form of a large snake.
Best Short Film: Alice in Deafland is performed by students K - 12th grade at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind (CSDB).
Much work went into producing this film with student lead vision, direction and performances. Alice falls down the rabbit hole after confessing she wishes she could explore an alternate reality where everyone signs and learns about her culture and her identity. At the end, Alice embraces and solidifies her Deaf journey, identifying herself as Deaf and advocating to her father that she wants to stop being home schooled and attend CSDB.