Rachel Feldman
AWD Icon Member Rachel Feldman‘s feature film, LILLY, just completed a successful theatrical run combined with prominent screenings.
Based on the life of Lilly Ledbetter, the film is an emotional drama about a courageous factory worker who fights for justice when cheated and mistreated by her company. Starring Patricia Clarkson, Thomas Sadoski, and John Benjamin Hickey.
Follow LILLY’s journey on IG.
Kara White
Kara White wrote and directed the documentary, “Witness to Revolution: One Doctor’s Story of the Xinhai Revolution”, which started airing nationally on PBS in May 2025 and is nominated for a Great Lakes Emmy for Best Historical Documentary.
“Witness to Revolution” tells the story of a medical missionary who traveled to China at the turn of the century. Wanting a life of adventure and to heal people in need, Dr. Edgar T. Shields got more than he bargained for, winding up in a revolution that would end a dynasty.
Follow Kara on IG to learn more about her work.
Mikaela Bruce
“Not Afraid,” a narrative written and directed by Mikaela Bruce, premiered on Omeleto in May.
Logline: She thought getting back on the team would help her move on. But when old grief hits hard, a Native American teen spirals, forced to face the loss she’s tried to outrun.
You can learn more about Mikaela via her IG.
Danishka Esterhazy
Sniper: The Last Stand, a narrative action feature directed by Danishka Esterhazy had its Netflix premiere in May.
The lastest in a popular franchise, Sniper: The Last Stand follows an expert sniper who leads a special ops team in Costa Verde to prevent a dangerous arms dealer from deploying a lethal weapon. While mentoring a rookie shooter, he struggles with his new leadership role as the mission grows deadlier.
Follow Danishka on IG for more!
Natalie Simpkins
As reported in Deadline, multi-platinum-selling country star Kane Brown will make his feature film debut opposite Taylor Lautner in The Token Groomsman, a new romantic comedy from AWD board member writer/director Natalie Simpkins. The Fithian Group’s Attend will oversee a 2,500-screen U.S. theatrical release, with Radiant Films International handling global sales.
Follow Natalie of IG for more!
Vanessa Beck
Vanessa Beck won Best Female Director at the Kyoto Independent Film Festival for her film Isobelle.
An intimate portrait of mental health, Isobelle explores the quiet struggles a family must navigate in treating adolescent depression.