Tallgrass 2025: A cinematic celebration that’s rooted, reimagined and ready for everyone
The 23rd Annual Tallgrass Film Festival returns to downtown Wichita Oct. 16-19, bringing with it 188 films from around the world, including 14 world premieres, 10 North American premieres and a record 87 Kansas premieres. But beyond the numbers, this year’s festival is deeply personal — both for the city and the people behind the scenes.
“Cinema is in our DNA,” says Sierra Franklin-Morton, who’s stepping into her first year as Interim Executive Director after joining the organization just over a year ago. That tagline reflects more than just this year’s theme — it’s also a nod to the festival’s return to its roots.
The festival’s central hub this year will be the Boulevard Theatres at Old Town, a venue (as the former Warren Old Town) that hosted some of the earliest Tallgrass screenings.
“We’re kind of going back to where we started,” Franklin-Morton says. “It ties into our theme for the 23rd year. We’re embracing our foundation.”
Additional screenings will take place at the Mary Jane Teall Theater at Century II and at the Emily Bonavia Tallgrass Film Center at The Lux. After the four-day in-person run, a selection of films will be available virtually from Oct. 20-27.
Programming for everyone
This year’s program includes 38 features and 150 short films, plus a new, music video category. One of the biggest surprises: an animated film as a gala selection.
“‘Lesbian Space Princess’ is our closing night film,” Franklin-Morton says with a smile. “It’s wild, adorable and a really good time.”
It screens Oct. 19 at Boulevard Theatres.
Themes this year are wide-ranging, from deep explorations of identity and social justice to whimsical, genre-bending narratives.
“We don’t shy away from controversial topics,” Franklin-Morton says. “We welcome them. That’s what starts conversations.”
Panels this year also reflect a more peer-focused approach, with discussions on film financing, indie production and a new “Where Are They Now?” panel highlighting Tallgrass alumni.
Making film festivals feel local
For Franklin-Morton, a Wichita native, connecting the festival back to the community is a personal mission.
“I hadn’t even heard of Tallgrass until I was an adult,” she says. “If I had known about it in high school, I would’ve jumped right in.”
She wants more locals – especially those who’ve never been to a film festival – to feel welcome, even those who haven’t purchased full-festival tickets.
“People think it’s only for cinephiles or people with Tallpasses, but that’s not true,” she says. “We’ve got Flex packs: You can buy a single ticket. You don’t need a pass to come experience something new.”
She sees the festival not just as an event but as a community space – one where everyone, regardless of background — can find a film that speaks to them.
“Tallgrass is for everybody. Even if you don’t think it’s for you – it is,” she said.
The vibe: Warm, welcoming, Wichita
Despite growing recognition (it has been recognized as one of MovieMaker Magazine’s “25 Coolest Film Festivals”) Tallgrass has kept its identity as a welcoming, low-ego festival.
“It’s not stuffy,” Franklin-Morton says. “Everyone’s approachable. There’s no hierarchy. We’re all just here to celebrate film.”
That authenticity – along with a diverse lineup, affordable access and a community-driven approach – is what makes Tallgrass stand out on the festival circuit.
So whether you’re a film fanatic, a curious newcomer or just looking for something different to do in October, consider this your official invitation, Franklin-Morton says.
“Come to Tallgrass,” she said. “You might just find a story that stays with you.”
Tallgrass Film Festival 2025
Various venues in-person in downtown Wichita: Oct. 16-19
Virtual screenings: Oct. 20-27
Full line-up, tickets and more information: www.tallgrassfilm.org