Where Stories

Meet Community

Where Stories Meet Community

Blurred image of theater seats with a dark background, illuminated by faint lights, and a large white screen or light in the upper right corner.

We bring people together through powerful cinema by showcasing meaningful films, sparking conversation, and advancing storytelling and filmmaking across the Hudson Valley.

Cinema that connects us.

Film Society of Newburgh is a home for bold storytelling and shared cultural experiences. We believe film opens minds, builds empathy, and helps us see one another more clearly.

Through curated screenings, conversations, workshops, and filmmaker events, we create spaces where stories come to life—not only on screen but also in the connections we build.

Rooted in Newburgh and the Hudson Valley, we support the growth of regional filmmaking and bring global voices to our community.

A vintage Rolleiflex twin-lens reflex camera with black body and silver accents, placed on a plain white background.

What we do

Two women sitting in a dark movie theater, eating popcorn and drinking beverages, with many empty purple seats surrounding them.

Curated Screenings

Thoughtfully selected films, shown with intention.

We program independent, classic, and contemporary films that invite conversation and connection. Screenings often include introductions, post-film discussions, or special guests to deepen the experience beyond the screen.

Includes:

  • Feature films & shorts

  • Themed series & seasonal programs

  • Special one-night events

Concert scene with raised hands of the audience silhouetted against a stage with colorful bright red and purple lights with the word 'COMMUNITY' displayed on a screen in the background.

Conversations & Events

Film doesn’t end when the credits roll.

We host talks, Q&As, panels, and informal conversations that bring audiences together to reflect on what they’ve seen and heard.

Includes:

  • Post-screening discussions

  • Filmmaker Q&As

  • Community conversations

  • Partner events with local organizations

Silhouette of a person assembling a camera on a tripod against a red background.

Filmmaker Support

Supporting storytelling from our region and beyond.

We create opportunities for emerging and established filmmakers to share work, connect with audiences, and develop their craft.

Includes:

  • Filmmaker spotlights

  • Workshops & skill-building sessions

  • Screenings of regional work

  • Networking and community-building opportunities

Person wearing a baseball cap with the message "Love Your Neighbour" embroidered on it, at an outdoor event with several blurred people in the background.

Community Partnerships

Cinema rooted in place.

We collaborate with local businesses, cultural groups, and community spaces to bring film into the fabric of Newburgh.

Includes:

  • Co-hosted screenings & events

  • Neighborhood partnerships

  • Site-specific or pop-up screenings

  • Cross-disciplinary collaborations

A group of people gathered outdoors at night, possibly on a sports field, with three people clasping hands and two holding a long light stick.

Growing What’s Next

Building a sustainable film culture.

Our work is about long-term impact — nurturing audiences, supporting artists, and growing a shared film culture in the Hudson Valley.

Includes:

  • Education & outreach

  • Youth and community engagement

  • New programs in development

Film Society of Newburgh creates spaces where cinema is experienced, discussed, and shared. Our work spans curated screenings, community gatherings, and support for filmmakers — all rooted in Newburgh and the Hudson Valley.


Our ethos

Everything we do is guided by one belief: film is most powerful when experienced together.

Upcoming Events

  • Surreal World Film Festival

    11.14 4:30-9:00PM

    Film Society of Newburgh at Surreal World Film Festival

    Film Society of Newburgh is proud to be part of Surreal World Film Festival, celebrating boundary-pushing independent cinema, imaginative storytelling, and the artists who bring it to life.

    Join us for a special gathering of filmmakers, film lovers, and curious audiences.

    More details coming soon.

  • The Cut

    11.21 7:00-8:30 PM

    A space for filmmakers to screen works in progress, test ideas, and receive constructive notes from fellow artists and audiences.

    Venue tbd

  • The Alien Connection

    Film Society of Newburgh presents a special screening and conversation

    What connects the Hudson Valley, Cold War espionage, and some of America’s most enduring UFO mysteries?

    Join Film Society of Newburgh for a screening of Alien Connection, the award-winning documentary by former NYPD officer and filmmaker Michael Corriere. Drawing on UFO history, alleged government records, and dramatic reenactments filmed with Hudson Valley actors, the documentary explores reported sightings, secret military activity, and mysteries that continue to invite questions.

    Following the screening, Corriere will join a conversation exploring the region’s rich UFO and UAP history, including the Pine Bush phenomenon and the enduring relationship between local lore, documented events, and the stories we choose to believe.

    Alien Connection was recognized by the Rome International Movie Awards.

    Dates coming soon

Past Events

  • Newburgh Pride

    06.23 11:30-6:30 AM

    Join us at Newburgh Pride for an informal meet-and-greet to learn about the Film Society, introduce yourself, and spark new creative possibilities together.

  • Newburgh Fringe Festival

    10.17 2:00 PM

    Stories From Here: Hudson Valley Shorts

    Join the Film Society of Newburgh for a celebration of Hudson Valley storytelling through three bold, distinct works:

    Collision
    A dramatic thriller by Frank Theodore, created through HUDSY.

    Diane De Niro
    A sharp, absurdist comedy about ambition, identity, and the allure of a famous last name.

    Woven Linen by Mamadoom
    A dark, witchy metal music video that turns sound into a striking visual world.

    Following the screening, stay for a conversation about making independent films and music videos in the Hudson Valley.

    Saturday, October 17 at 2 PM
    Annex at the Ritz Theater
    Newburgh, NY

  • Newburgh Fringe Festival

    10.18 7:30 PM

    The Keeper - A documentary film by Jon Bowermaster

    Join the Film Society of Newburgh for a screening of The Keeper, followed by a conversation with director Jon Bowermaster and Karen Frillmann, President of River Pool at Beacon.

    The film tells the story of John Lipscomb, the longtime Riverkeeper patrol boat captain who has dedicated more than 25 years and 80,000 miles on the Hudson River to protecting its future. Together, Jon and Karen will explore the river’s history, the work still ahead, and how communities can stay connected to and care for this vital shared resource.

    Sunday, October 18 at 7:30 PM
    ADS Tasting Room
    105 Ann Street, Newburgh, NY

  • Newburgh Fringe Festival

    10.17 12:30 PM

    Reel Improv: The Improv-a-go-go Variety Hour

    What if your favorite movie ended differently? What happened in the deleted scene, unlikely sequel, or backstory no one ever got to see?

    Reel Improv turns audience suggestions and beloved movies into live comedy. The cast creates alternate endings, missing scenes, bizarre sequels, and cinematic moments that have never existed before. No script, no predetermined ending, and no two performances alike.

    Come suggest the movie, then watch the scene you always wanted unfold live.

    Saturday, October 17 at 12:30 PM
    Theater at Newburgh Fringe Festival
    Newburgh, NY

A person hugging a dog in a forest with trees and sunlight filtering through.

Get Involved

A person holding a digital camera, capturing a view of train tracks or a road at sunset with clouds in the sky.

Support the Society

Help us grow a vibrant film culture in Newburgh through partnerships, sponsorships, and community support.

Follow Our Updates

Filmmakers

A woman with long dreadlocks wearing a black headband, dark jacket, and ripped jeans, holding a professional camera with a stabilizer on a city street at night.

We showcase films by filmmakers from Newburgh, the Hudson Valley, and beyond, highlighting diverse voices and bold storytelling across genres.

We accept submissions for screenings, festivals, and special programs, especially those with a strong point of view, community ties, or underrepresented perspectives.

In addition to exhibitions, we support filmmakers through conversations, spotlights, and opportunities to connect with local audiences.

Community & Partners

Proud to collaborate with local organizations, venues, and cultural partners across Newburgh and the Hudson Valley.

The Ellis

Safe Harbors on the Hudson

Gridworks Studios

The Betty

190 Bar

ADS Warehouse

Let’s Work Together

We’d love to build a partnership that supports both your organization and the cultural life of our community.

Contact us to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.