2023 True Life Fund

Since 2007, the True Life Fund has served to foreground film subjects and offers space at the Fest where audiences can show collective gratitude for the massive amount of time and energy—often uncompensated—that goes into sharing one's story through film. While fundraising is focused around a single film each year, the TLF represents the essential role of film subjects—and/or characters—in the lineup.

Artistic Director Chloé Trayner says, “Bad Press takes us to the frontline of the battle for the freedom of press for indigenous journalists and introduces us to the fearless Angel Ellis. The film sheds light on a little known and important struggle, and in the form of a procedural thriller, we see the incredible work that Angel and her colleagues at Mvskoke Media are doing to fight for their right to report without censorship.” As a reporter in the Muscogee (Creek) Nation striving to protect journalistic integrity, Ellis’ dedication to transparency is a threat to her livelihood and her own story affirms just how high the stakes are.

The True Life Fund itself comprises thousands of individual gifts from festival attendees between now and April 30. Funds raised will go toward helping film subject Angel Ellis

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The True Life Fund sponsor, Paytient Technologies, is a healthcare payment company headquartered in Columbia, Missouri. Partnering with employers, insurers, and leading healthcare providers, they work to make it easier for people to access and pay for care. Spokesperson Laura Cave shares, "we are proud to sponsor the True Life Fund because we believe in the healing powers of story and art to help us understand each other better and live healthier lives."