In partnership with Ally Global Foundation and Atlas Free, the initiative includes the impactful short film "Firebird" and a featured address from The Association for the Recovery of Children
Cinema serves as an exceptionally potent force for sparking tangible change. Even though narratives such as Firebird present difficult truths, they are exactly what we need to bring into the spotlight. ”— Chadwick Pelletier, Founder and Executive Director of DIFF
The DaVinci International Film Festival (DIFF) is excited to unveil RiseUP, a brand-new initiative focused on highlighting films with a strong social message. This first-of-its-kind program is scheduled to take place in person on September 26, 2026, at AMC Theatres at The Grove in Los Angeles, as part of the festival’s 8th Edition.
The RiseUP experience is a two-hour, fully engaging event centered on the Official Selection short film Firebird, directed by Eric Davis and Lapka Dolma Tamang. The film addresses the grim issue of child sex trafficking, and its screening will be followed by an engaging discussion with the filmmakers, along with a keynote presentation from ARC (The Association for the Recovery of Children).
Co-hosted by Ally Global Foundation and ARC, RiseUP is designed to go beyond the typical film screening. This 2026 effort does more than just inform—it provides the audience with concrete steps to help combat child sex trafficking and exploitation, ensuring everyone leaves the theatre with both knowledge and optimism. RiseUP represents more than just another program at DIFF; it serves as a rallying cry for action.
"Film is an incredibly strong medium for sharing crucial knowledge and inspiring real-world impact," stated Chadwick Pelletier, Founder & CEO of the DaVinci International Film Festival. "The subject of Firebird is without a doubt difficult to watch, but that is precisely why we must bring it into the light. Purpose-driven art never avoids the darkness; instead, it points us toward the path forward."
The event will be emceed and hosted by Bazzel Baz, the founder and CEO of ARC, who will also be giving the main keynote. The organizers stress that the discussion isn’t meant to end when the event does, but rather to inspire a deeper connection between the audience and the partner organizations.
Tickets to the first-ever RiseUP event at the 8th Annual DaVinci International Film Festival can be purchased now at davincifilmfestival.com — reserve your place today to be part of this meaningful occasion.
Content Warning: Kindly be advised that the RiseUP program deals with sensitive and challenging issues related to child sex trafficking. While the content may be difficult for some, the program is deliberately designed to inform, empower, and give attendees a strong sense of hope and a clear mission.
Partner and Sponsorship Opportunities:
To expand this essential educational work to a broader audience, DIFF is looking for partners and sponsors who share its mission. Interested companies or individuals can reach out to partners@davincifilm.org.
About the DaVinci International Film Festival (DIFF):
Launched as a platform that puts artists first, the DaVinci International Film Festival honors independent films from across the world, supporting innovative storytelling in narrative, documentary, and new media. Dedicated to linking bold creators with discerning viewers, DIFF has grown into a top cultural destination for independent cinema, promoting community, conversation, and artistic achievement.
For further details about the RiseUP initiative, its schedule, or to buy tickets, please go to davincifilmfestival.com
Nicole Goesseringer Muj
Kultura PR International LLC
nicolekultura@gmail.com
