20 YEARS OF IMPACT
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
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Our Mission The Moving Picture Institute (MPI) is a production company and talent incubator that creates high- impact films designed to entertain, inspire, and educate audiences with captivating stories about human freedom. Founded in 2005 on the belief that stories can change the world, MPI advances its mission in two unique and effective ways: producing original content in-house and launching the careers of talented filmmakers.
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A Letter from Rob Pfaltzgraff
Dear friends,
This year marks a special milestone for MPI—our twentieth anniversary. For two decades, we’ve worked to reclaim storytelling as a force for liberty, training and mentoring filmmakers who share our values and producing films that reach audiences with lasting ideas about freedom. From the release of the MPI Original sci-fi thriller Motherland —which screened at select theaters; was selected for 14 festivals, earning 21 nominations and 12 awards; and is now streaming on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play—to completing production on our most ambitious feature yet, One Second After , 2025 has been a landmark year for MPI. Our short films about the American Dream, entrepreneurship, and the value of the dollar received awards and nominations at festivals nationwide, with Grind ; Pocket Change ; The Dying Business ; The Art of Inflation ; and Shoot, Shovel, and Shut Up honored for their direction and storytelling.
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From the President
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Twenty Years of Advancing Freedom through Film
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The Power of Synergy
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Motherland Premieres Worldwide
12 One Second After Completes Principal Photography
Through our Rising Filmmaker Program (RFP), we supported 83 filmmakers, strengthening a community of talent united by their commitment to advancing the principles of liberty through film. This year, we also launched three programs: the MPI Mentorship Program, connecting emerging filmmakers with seasoned industry professionals for one-on-one guidance and support; the Script Development Fellowship, where participants craft production-ready screenplays under professional mentorship and the guidance of MPI producers; and most significantly, the First Feature Lab, which gives proven, mission- aligned filmmakers the opportunity to write and direct their first feature-length film. As MPI looks to the future, our upcoming films bring to life powerful stories of freedom and courage. Coolidge , adapted from Amity Shlaes’s bestselling biography, honors President Calvin Coolidge’s legacy of fiscal responsibility and limited government. Against the Tide tells the story of a Cold War-era swimmer who risks everything to escape East Germany, and In Order to Live: The Yeonmi Park Story follows one woman’s harrowing journey from oppression to freedom. We’re grateful for your belief in MPI. Your support allows us to continue producing films that advance the cause of liberty and to guide the next generation of freedom- minded filmmakers.
16 MPI Production Lab 18 MPI Original Films: Real-World Impact
20 MPI Rising Filmmaker Program 21 MPI Internship and Mentorship Programs 22 MPI Short Film Lab 23 MPI Filmmaker Summits 24 MPI Script Development Fellowship 25 MPI First Feature Lab
Sincerely,
26 Leadership 27 Financials
Rob Pfaltzgraff President
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Twenty Years of Advancing Freedom through Film A Message from MPI Co-founder Frayda Levy
MPI’s senior executive team (from left to right) Rob Pfaltzgraff, Lana Link, and Nick Reid pose on the red carpet.
MPI co-founder Thor Halvorssen makes celebratory remarks at the 20th Anniversary Gala.
Twenty years ago, when Thor Halvorssen and I created MPI, we had a lot of hopes and dreams. They have come true over the years and were truly celebrated at the 20th Anniversary Celebration this past October in Los Angeles. There is nothing more magical than celebrating a dream come true with a Hollywood extravaganza. MPI’s 20th anniversary Hollywood commemoration filled us with awe about the fabulous creations of Hollywood—and the joy of knowing that MPI is now a part of this incredibly influential industry . It was wonderful meeting so many young—and young-ish—MPI filmmakers who are making ‘Hollywood’-worthy films that celebrate liberty and the greatness of American entrepreneurship . Thank you to MPI for a truly wonderful few days and for impacting the film industry.
Gala guests mingle amid art from MPI Original films and live music, enjoying a vibrant evening that brought together filmmakers, supporters, and friends from across the MPI community.
MPI co-founder Frayda Levy (far right) offers a heartfelt toast to MPI’s success during an intimate gathering of supporters at the famed Magic Castle.
With optimism for what’s ahead,
Frayda Levy MPI Co-founder
Watch special videos from this event showcasing how MPI develops pro-freedom filmmakers, produces high-quality films, and continues to expand its impact through the Rising Filmmaker Program and ambitious MPI Original films at www.thempi.org/20thanniversary .
Internationally recognized DJs Autograf kick off the celebration at MPI’s 20th Anniversary Gala.
MPI friends and supporters gather for the opening of the evening program.
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The Power of Synergy Rising Filmmaker Program and MPI Original Films
MPI’s greatest achievement is twofold: building a vibrant, pro-liberty network of filmmakers worldwide and creating compelling, high- quality films that continue to break through industry challenges. Together, these achievements show MPI’s unique ability to shape
the future of media . —TIM HEDBERG, MPI FILMMAKER AND CO-WRITER-DIRECTOR OF THE ART OF INFLATION
MPI filmmaker Tim Hedberg on the set of The Art of Inflation , which he developed and produced alongside MPI filmmaker Brett Wietecha.
A camera operator catches an intense scene on the Columbia set of the MPI Original short film The Art of Inflation .
N ow in its twentieth year, MPI’s Rising directors, screenwriters, producers, and executives. Through close collaboration between the RFP and MPI Original Films, filmmakers gain invaluable experience on professional sets and the production company is continually energized by new ideas, projects, and creative talent. Filmmaker Program (RFP) is serving as a robust filmmaker development pipeline for From the beginning, our founders envisioned an organization that would identify, train, and support freedom-minded filmmakers, and that commitment has defined MPI’s work ever since. To date, MPI has trained more than 750 filmmakers, many of whom
have gained hands-on experience through the production of over 40 MPI Original films or MPI- supported films. And the RFP’s labs and workshops have become a valuable source of film ideas, populating the film slate for MPI Original Films. This synergy between our core programs has created a cycle of lasting impact—education fuels production, and production inspires new generations of filmmakers. Through this unique combination of talent development and original content creation, MPI continues to shape culture, advance liberty, and elevate the next wave of freedom-minded storytellers.
MPI filmmaker Mark Apicella guides actors on the set of the MPI Original short film Grind , developed and produced through MPI’s labs.
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The idea for Motherland originated with screenwriter Nicole Roewe, now MPI’s director of creative development, who took inspiration from a real Bolshevik-era Soviet experiment that attempted a similar program, wherein children were raised by the state. Though the historical effort collapsed after ten years, Nicole envisioned a chilling scenario in which the idea endured—and evolved—within American culture. Motherland brings its enduring themes of family, freedom, and moral courage to life through the exceptional performance of its star-studded cast— Tony Award winner Miriam Silverman ( Your Friends & Neighbors , Landman ), legendary Emmy winner Holland Taylor ( The Morning Show , Hollywood ), Emmy Award winner Néstor Carbonell ( Shōgun , The Morning Show ), and rising star Emily Arancio.
Publicity still from Motherland .
MPI senior vice president Lana joins MPI director of creative development and Motherland screenwriter Nicole Roewe and MPI filmmaker and Motherland director Evan Matthews at the Valley Film Festival as the film takes home the award for Best Narrative Feature.
Motherland Premieres Worldwide A Gripping MPI Original about Freedom and Control T he MPI Original thriller Motherland was released in select North American theaters in September and is now available in
The story follows a government enforcer who begins to question the system she once served after uncovering the true identity of a young woman in her care. When the regime launches a new program to combat population decline, the enforcer risks everything to protect the young woman—and to rediscover what it means to be free. This powerful narrative invites audiences to reflect on what is lost when the state reengineers human relationships—and what it takes to reclaim them.
North America and the United Kingdom on major streaming platforms including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play. Set in a society where the state “relieves” parents of the “burden” of raising children, the film examines the illusion of freedom and fairness at the expense of humanity’s most essential bonds.
During production, Evan reviews the shooting script with actress Holland Taylor.
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MOTHERLAND CONTINUED Festival Success and Critical Acclaim
Evan and Nicole participate in a Q&A after the world premiere at the Omaha Film Festival.
14 FESTIVALS
21 NOMINATIONS
12 AWARDS
[T]he movie... could spur spirited discussions among viewers about the maternal instinct, improving opportunities for women and how to
Evan takes questions before Motherland ’s international premiere at the Evolution Mallorca Film Festival in Spain, where he was honored with Best Director.
Directed by longtime MPI filmmaker Evan Matthews, Motherland marks his feature directorial debut. His journey with MPI began in 2010, when he received a filmmaker grant through the RFP. Since then, he has taken part in MPI’s screenwriting workshops, Directing Workshop, Moving Picturecraft, Mindful Editor, and masterclass programs. Traveling with Motherland to festivals across the US and abroad—playing to sold-out audiences—was a dream come true. And it was possible only because of MPI. Festivals aren’t just about recognition; they’re about connection—meeting other filmmakers, festival directors, and audiences who care deeply about meaningful storytelling. Every moment on the festival circuit reminded me of what’s possible when films rooted in liberty reach the world.
best raise children. — THE NEW YORK TIMES
Emmy Award-winning actor Néstor Carbonell promotes the release of Motherland on Los Angeles’s KTLA 5 Morning News .
Motherland accurately shows how an authoritarian regime ensures its own survival : it presents the one option as freedom, heavily controls language, smooths over the stories that make it to the news, and quietly does away with dissenters. — SCREENRANT
Tony Award-winning actress Miriam Silverman appears on New York City’s FOX5 Good Day New York .
—EVAN MATTHEWS, MPI FILMMAKER AND DIRECTOR OF MOTHERLAND
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One Second After Completes Principal Photography A Story of Resilience, Freedom, and Survival M PI Original Films completed principal photography on One Second After , a gripping survival drama filmed in Sofia, Bulgaria, and adapted from the New York Times best-selling novel by William R. Forstchen.
Lead Josh Holloway shoots a tense scene opposite actor Steven Ogg ( The Walking Dead ).
One Second After is more than a film—it’s a wake-up call. People need to see it and start thinking seriously about how fragile our modern world has become. Preparing communities to civilly cooperate and work together to survive isn’t just important; it’s essential for the future of our nation and our children. And I can’t think of another production company better equipped than MPI to tell this story. —DAVID GORE, MPI DONOR
The adapted screenplay was co-written by acclaimed writer, producer, and director J. Michael Straczynski ( Sense8 , Jeremiah , Babylon 5 ) and MPI’s Nicole Roewe ( Motherland ), and directed by award-winning stunt coordinator and director Scott Rogers. With over three decades of experience, Rogers brought a dynamic visual style and a strong command of action storytelling, having led second-unit direction and stunt coordination on major productions including Tron: Ares , John Wick: Chapter 4 , and The Bourne Ultimatum . Industry buzz around One Second After began as soon as casting news broke, prompting coverage in Variety , The Hollywood Reporter , and Deadline and signaling strong interest in the project. The film features an acclaimed cast led by Josh Holloway ( Yellowstone , Lost ) and Hannah John-Kamen ( Thunderbolts *), with Famke Janssen ( X-Men ) and Academy Award-nominated Mary McDonnell ( Dances with Wolves ).
One Second After is the largest and most logistically complex production MPI has undertaken. Its scope—sweeping in breadth yet grounded in purpose—marks a significant step forward in MPI’s mission to tell meaningful, high- impact stories. The project was made possible through the vision and generosity of several dedicated MPI supporters, whose investments testify to a deep belief in MPI and in the importance of the film’s message. MPI developed One Second After over more than five years, managing every stage of the creative and production process—from acquiring the rights and commissioning the screenplay to raising the full production budget. Our team led every major creative and business decision, dedicating thousands of hours to negotiating contracts, casting, scheduling, and budgeting to bring this ambitious story to life.
Set in a small North Carolina town, the story follows a former military officer who must protect his family and community after a devastating electromagnetic pulse attack wipes out all modern electronic technology. The catastrophe plunges the world into chaos, exposing both the fragility of modern civilization and the resilience of the human spirit. One Second After confronts the hard realities triggered by a nationwide loss of all power and electronic devices. It examines themes of national security, individual responsibility, self-governance, the right to self-defense, property rights, and the discipline required to preserve civil order. As society unravels, the film captures the struggle for survival amid rationed food, limited medical care, and the stark choice between mob rule and the rule of law.
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ONE SECOND AFTER CONTINUED
Working on this set has been a multifaceted, growing
One Second After gave participants in MPI’s Rising Filmmaker Program a rare opportunity to work on a large-scale feature. Ten emerging filmmakers traveled to Bulgaria to join the crew— working alongside veteran industry professionals and learning within a fully immersive production environment. They contributed to the film while they honed their craft and helped create a project that communicates the values and ideas at the heart of MPI’s mission.
experience— truly one of the most catalyzing
opportunities of my career and personal life mission. I’m so grateful for this experience because it affirmed my passion for the entertainment industry and expanded my network of creative collaborators. —HANNAH CARUANA, MPI FILMMAKER AND ONE SECOND AFTER PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
MPI filmmaker Timothy Blackwood, the director’s shadow, dresses in costume stepping in for a small on-screen role as a member of the raiding party.
Josh and actress Hannah John-Kamen (center left) on set in Bulgaria.
Shadowing the director was one of the most formative experiences of my career. I learned what it takes to lead with clarity, discipline, and heart. Like One Second After , I want my films to remind audiences that liberty and resilience are worth fighting for. —TIMOTHY BLACKWOOD, MPI FILMMAKER, DIRECTOR OF THE CONQUERO R,
Longtime MPI filmmaker Timothy Blackwood shadowed Rogers throughout the production. This unique role gave him valuable creative and logistical insight as he prepares to take the next step in his career—directing a feature of his own. Opportunities like this show how MPI prepares its filmmakers to lead ambitious, purpose-driven productions in the future.
WRITER-DIRECTOR OF INFRACTION , AND WRITER OF IN ORDER TO LIVE
Scott (far right) and director of photography Brad Shield (far left), who is best known for The Tomorrow War and The Avengers , discuss lighting with cast members Josh, Hannah, and Famke Janssen.
MPI filmmaker Hannah Caruana distributes the daily shooting script to cast and crew.
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MPI Production Lab Short Films Earn Praise on Festival Circuit
MPI empowered me to pursue a deeply personal story and gave me the tools to bring it to life in a way that resonates with audiences. The relationships I’ve built through MPI have supported and inspired me as I take my next steps as a writer and director, opening doors I never could have imagined. Sharing this film with audiences has reaffirmed my belief in MPI’s mission and in the power of storytelling to promote freedom. —JOE DUCA, MPI FILMMAKER AND DIRECTOR OF THE DYING BUSINESS
Directing our first short film with MPI was one of the most creatively fulfilling experiences of our careers. Beyond the on- set lessons, we gained lasting confidence through MPI’s trust and mentorship. Their team guided us every step of the way, helping the film premiere at the Oscar-qualifying Indy Shorts Film Festival this past summer. No other organization has offered a stronger platform for pro- freedom voices , and we’re deeply grateful for MPI’s support. —TANNER MOBLEY AND HESTON ROEWE, MPI FILMMAKERS AND CO-WRITER-DIRECTORS OF THE MPI ORIGINAL SHORT POCKET CHANGE Tanner Mobley (center right), MPI filmmaker and co-writer-director of Pocket Change , joins cast members from the sci-fi short on the red carpet of HollyShorts, an Oscar-qualifying short film festival based in Los Angeles.
Filmmakers behind The Dying Business , The Art of Inflation , Grind , and Pocket Change take the stage for a post-screening Q&A at the Indy Shorts Film Festival, which featured a special block of MPI Original films.
I n addition to feature films, MPI also produces short films, which invite audiences to consider timely issues from new liberty-oriented perspectives while giving emerging filmmakers a proving ground. In 2025, five MPI Original shorts— Grind ; Pocket Change ; The Art of Inflation ; Shoot, Shovel, and Shut Up ; and The Dying Business — began their festival journeys, earning recognition across top festivals with over 30 festival selections in the year. Each was developed through MPI’s Short Film Lab or Documentary Storytelling Workshop and produced through the MPI Production Lab, which provides immersive, real-world production
experience. Notably, four of these films were featured at Indy Shorts—an Oscar-qualifying festival—in a first-ever special MPI block dedicated to the MPI Short Film Lab and Production Lab. Exploring themes of the American Dream, entrepreneurship, and the value of the dollar, these shorts demonstrate MPI’s intentional approach to developing creative talent and crafting stories that advance our mission. The dedicated block at a major festival underscores the reputation for excellence in independent filmmaking that Lana Link, MPI’s senior vice president, and the MPI team have built over MPI’s first 20 years.
Trân Hoàng Calvin (center), MPI filmmaker and writer-director of Shoot, Shovel, and Shut Up , discusses his family drama with a packed audience at the New York Shorts International Film Festival.
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Another MPI film that has spurred action is Kemba , which tells the powerful true story of Kemba Smith Pradia, a young college student whose life was upended after she became entangled in an abusive relationship with a man who turned out to be a drug kingpin. Though she never handled or sold drugs, Kemba was sentenced to 24½ years in prison under mandatory federal sentencing laws.
received clemency, and Kemba Smith Pradia was granted a full pardon. This powerful outcome was bolstered by renewed national attention to their cases, driven by Kemba ’s release on BET+ and MPI’s work with strategic partners to organize more than 120 grassroots screenings, including a bipartisan screening at the US Capitol for nearly 500 lawmakers and activists. The clemency of Michelle West and the pardon of Kemba stand as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to foster greater understanding and advance justice.
In 2025, Michelle West—whose story is portrayed in Kemba and who was also sentenced unfairly—
MPI Original Films: Real-World Impact Turning Storytelling into Action M PI is committed to creating films that both entertain and inspire audiences to think differently. That commitment has Melony Armstrong (center) and Lana (right) participate in a discussion with Windrider Studios at the Sundance Film Festival, where Freedom Hair —inspired by Melony’s entrepreneurial spirit—is honored with the Amplify Award, recognizing films that elevate BIPOC voices. regulations in court, transforming her personal struggle into a broader fight for economic liberty.
In February, a grassroots screening in Albuquerque—co-hosted with IJ and featuring Melony—helped spark real policy change. Weeks later, the governor signed a bill eliminating licensing requirements for hair braiders. The film also played a role in a similar victory in Wyoming, with both states joining more than three dozen others that have enacted this reform. These wins reflect growing momentum in a movement MPI is proud to champion, using screenings nationwide to inspire dialogue and advance regulatory change.
already yielded measurable impact—seen through the success of Freedom Hair and Kemba , two MPI Original films that continue to resonate deeply with viewers and partners across the country. Written and directed by Academy Award- nominated filmmaker Dianne Houston, Freedom Hair tells the true story of Melony Armstrong, a mother who turns her passion for natural hair braiding into a business—only to face restrictive state licensing laws. With help from the Institute for Justice (IJ), she challenges Mississippi’s
Kemba Smith Pradia and director Kelley Kali (center left to right) receive the Audience Award from members of the Alexandria Film Festival.
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MPI Rising Filmmaker Program Strengthening Our Network of Pro-freedom Filmmakers T he Rising Filmmaker Program (RFP) has built an impressive network of filmmakers passionate about creating films that reflect
MPI Internship and Mentorship Programs Cultivating Independent Voices in Film M PI’s support for emerging filmmakers often begins through the Hollywood Career Launch Program (HCLP)—the entry
By keeping all the filmmakers that participate in RFP programming connected through events and ongoing professional development, MPI has built a powerful mission-aligned network. RFP alumni collaborate on each other’s projects, recommend one another for jobs, and bring MPI’s values into writers’ rooms, sets, and executives’ offices— advancing the ideals of freedom through the stories they tell and the careers they build. To continue strengthening this community, the RFP offers the Advanced Filmmaker Program, the Rising Executive Program, and the Producer’s Playbook as well as masterclasses and networking events throughout the year. Through a combination of creative development and practical training, MPI’s RFP equips filmmakers with the skills, experience, and connections needed to thrive—while fostering a strong network of alumni united by their commitment to advancing the ideals of freedom through film.
themes of freedom. On average, the program attracts 80 emerging filmmakers—directors, writers, producers, and aspiring executives— each year, offering them training, mentorship, and opportunities to advance their projects and careers. Many of them have gone on to earn Oscar and Emmy nominations, Nicholl Fellowships, Student Academy Awards, and official selections at major festivals including SXSW and Tribeca. For those just starting out, MPI’s Hollywood Career Launch Program introduces students and recent graduates to the industry through internships on MPI sets and at leading studios. As filmmakers progress, MPI offers an expanding slate of intensive labs and targeted workshops in writing, directing, and producing—designed to sharpen their craft and prepare them for production.
point for liberty-minded college students and recent graduates who want hands-on production experience on the sets of MPI Original films and at major industry studios. This year, 23 interns earned placements with MPI Original Films or partner production companies and participated in the Academy Gold Rising initiative, gaining access to panels, screenings, networking events, and behind- the-scenes tours. Many alumni of this program now hold influential positions in the industry, carrying forward MPI’s values and advancing freedom through their work— for example, serving in roles such as executive assistant to the CEO of Fox Entertainment, production staff on NBCUniversal’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon , or office production assistant at Apple TV.
Mentors and mentees gather at the inaugural Mentorship Summit.
This year also marked the launch of MPI’s Mentorship Program, connecting emerging talent—many of them MPI internship alumni—with seasoned industry professionals for one-on-one guidance. The program began with the first-ever Mentorship Summit, a weekend of professional development and creative reflection. Mentorships continued virtually throughout the year with monthly meetings and readings on filmmaking and freedom.
Rising Filmmaker Program by the Numbers
My MPI internship was my introduction to Hollywood. MPI took a chance on someone with no experience (but a whole lot of passion), provided me with a summer internship specifically tailored to my skills and interests, and then provided constant supplemental support in the years since. In the past eight years, I’ve attended numerous MPI events that have expanded my network, introduced me to rising filmmakers, and created a sense of community that has helped me navigate my career. —CARLY HICKS, HCLP ALUM AND CREATIVE ACQUISITIONS COORDINATOR AT NBCUNIVERSAL
1,132 FELLOWSHIPS PROVIDED
352 INTERNSHIPS GRANTED
*since program inception
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MPI Short Film Lab Filmmakers Take On the Fight for Free Speech P articipating in MPI’s Short Film Lab is one of the most effective ways for filmmakers to see their work produced, offering immersive
MPI Filmmaker Summits Sustaining a Creative, Connected Community M PI’s filmmaker summits strengthen the skills, careers, and connections of our creative community, sustaining a strong talent pipeline. Our programming serves two
the dangers of digital-age censorship and control through one woman’s search for love, showing that real connection is only possible when we can freely express who we are and what we believe. Monica first joined MPI through the 2021 Short Film Lab, worked as a production assistant on several MPI Originals, and returned this year with a new idea— ultimately earning the highest award in the lab, the Short Film Lab grant.
The Rising Executive Summit and Producer’s Playbook equip participants with the tools, insights, and connections needed to succeed in today’s entertainment industry. The 2025 sessions featured producers Michael Mandaville ( Taken trilogy) and Mark Joseph ( Reagan , The Chronicles of Narnia ), and film executive Tyler Zacharia ( The Irishman ). Attendees trained in budgeting, financing, and union negotiations and gained access to the Producers Guild of America’s Produced By Conference, covering AI, pitching, and the evolving role of producers. MPI held two Advanced Filmmaker Summits in 2025. One took place at the Sundance Film Festival, offering access to screenings, Q&As, and MPI-hosted gatherings. The second convened 30 filmmakers during MPI’s 20th Anniversary Celebration, featuring a masterclass with director Tyler Nilson ( The Peanut Butter Falcon ), a discussion with MPI board member and writer- producer Rob Long ( Cheers ), and a fireside chat with The Bragg Brothers and Pinball: The Man Who Saved the Game subjects Roger and Ellen Sharpe.
training, professional mentorship, and a path into the MPI Production Lab. The 2025 lab explored the theme “Silenced Voices: The Fight for Free Speech in a Digital Age,” challenging participants to examine censorship, self-expression, and the power of open dialogue. From 155 applications, twelve filmmakers advanced to the Narrative Short Screenwriting Workshops, and eight continued into the Directing Workshop, which included an in-person Directing Actors Summit, virtual sessions with industry professionals—including MPI alumni—and individualized mentorship. Monica Cecilia Lucas received the $10,000 Short Film Lab grant for her romantic comedy with a sci-fi twist, You’ve Got Matches . In the film, a hopeless romantic and a cynic form an unexpected bond as they uncover why their AI-powered dating apps have kept them apart. The story highlights
groups—creative storytellers and professionals on the business side of the industry—drawing on more than twenty years of experience identifying and nurturing talent.
MPI filmmaker Monica Cecilia Lucas works on the set of One Second After.
MPI filmmakers gather for a group photo on a tour of the historic Paramount Pictures studio lot during the Advanced Filmmaker Summit.
Working with MPI over the past few years has been my most comprehensive film education. Developing my script in the Short Film Lab and learning from instructors and peers gave me the confidence to bring my story to life. Being selected as the 2025 lab winner means the world to me and will help me take the next step in my career. —MONICA CECILIA LUCAS, MPI FILMMAKER AND 2025 SHORT FILM LAB WINNER
MPI’s Advanced Filmmaker Summits are an excellent opportunity to connect with top-tier talent against the backdrop of the industry’s most exciting events . Meaningfully developing connections with other filmmakers and distributors at the Sundance summit resulted in a documentary series production later in the year, and the summit in LA showed the incredible breadth of MPI’s professional network. I’m immensely grateful for the education and support provided by these career enriching experiences. —MATTHEW PIRRALL, MPI FILMMAKER AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCER AT CAVERN COLLECTIVE
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MPI First Feature Lab Deepening MPI’s Commitment to Freedom-Driven Storytelling I n 2025, MPI received a major grant that enabled the launch of the First Feature Lab. This lab provides the most promising and proven
MPI Script Development Fellowship Fueling the Next Wave of MPI Originals E very story begins with a single idea—and through MPI’s Script Development Fellowship, those ideas are being shaped into powerful, production-ready screenplays that feed directly into our film slate. The Script Development
My experience in MPI’s First Feature Lab has been fantastic, making possible my long-held dream of screenwriting with a clear pathway toward directing my first feature film. The lab—and the extraordinary support of the MPI team—has given me the creative momentum and confidence to take this next step after years of growing as an MPI filmmaker. —LAURA WATERS HINSON, MPI FILMMAKER AND ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF FILM AT AMERICAN UNIVERSITY
Fellowship gave me the space and support to take my screenplay Coolidge to the next level. MPI is helping filmmakers refine their stories, and it’s also building a slate of projects ready to become the next MPI Original film. —NICOLE ROEWE, MPI DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT AND WRITER OF MOTHERLAND AND COOLIDGE
mission-aligned filmmakers in our pipeline with the unique opportunity to write and direct their first feature-length film—what many describe as the final hurdle to breaking into the industry. The strength of MPI’s First Feature Lab is magnified by its close connection to MPI Original Films. This collaboration ensures that the creative work underway is reinforced through real-world production experience, creating a continuum from early story shaping to on-set execution that benefits both the filmmakers and the finished films. Nine filmmakers were selected for the inaugural cohort of this lab. They are starting with a Script Development Fellowship, working closely with the MPI producing team to prepare treatments, write drafts, and finalize their scripts. The most compelling projects will then be produced as MPI Original films.
In 2025, six filmmakers developed five screenplays through fellowships, working closely with MPI producers and experienced industry mentors to refine their concepts, strengthen their scripts, and ground their stories in themes of liberty, responsibility, and human dignity. The Script Development Fellowship is fueling the next generation of MPI Originals. Recent projects developed through the fellowship include In Order to Live , Against the Tide , The Secret List , Coolidge , and The Armageddon Report . Four of these now comprise the MPI Original Films slate.
Top row, left to right: Heston Roewe, Tanner Mobley, Brett Wietecha, Caroline Friend, Cyrus Saidi; Bottom row, left to right: Laura Waters Hinson, Monica Cecilia Lucas, Tim Hedberg, Toby Fell-Holden
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Leadership
Financials
Staff Rob Pfaltzgraff, President
Co-founders Thor Halvorssen Frayda Levy
The Moving Picture Institute is governed by an independent board of directors and is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. MPI relies on the private financial support of the general public—individuals, foundations, corporations, and program revenue—for its income and does not accept government funding. This report is a statement of MPI’s financial position for the 2025 fiscal year, January 1–December 31, and does not use final audited numbers.
Nick Reid, Executive Vice President Lana Link, Senior Vice President Joseph Corey, Vice President of Philanthropic Investments Tara Gallardy, Vice President of Production Allison Ryan, Vice President of Marketing Bradford Downs, Director of Talent Engagement Talya Messeri, Philanthropic Investments Officer Paul Olivett, Philanthropic Investments Officer Beth Reid, Marketing Associate Nicole Roewe, Director of Creative Development
Advisory Council Howard S. Hogan John E. Kramer Frayda Levy Jeff Yass Creative Council Peter Billingsley Néstor Carbonell Tanner Mobley Cecilia deMille Presley S. Leigh Savidge
7%
$25,925,498 Revenue 7% Program Revenue 57% Individuals 36% Foundations
36%
57%
Anastasiia Rusanova, Staff Writer Deb Schick, Director of Operations
3%
Board of Directors Sarah Atkins Robert Balzebre Colin Brady
$14,516,655 3% Administration 97% Programs Expenses
Virginia Walden Ford Michael J. Friedman Shelley Gregory Kristi Kendall Rob Long, Vice Chairperson Michael Mandaville Stephen Modzelewski, Chairperson Stacey Parks Rob Pfaltzgraff
97%
$19,526,407 Assets Year-End Total
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Veteran actor Josh Holloway gears up for a high-stakes standoff on the set of the MPI Original feature One Second Afte r.
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