Past Celebrity Jurors

Gus Van Sant

"Giving young filmmakers the opportunity to be recognized for their efforts and creativity is a great way to inspire and encourage more in the future."

Will Vinton

Ryan Lee

Tom De Santo

"I'm happy to support this festival, and the arts for our youth. The creative efforts these young filmmakers put forth continues to inspire me and I know the future of filmmaking will continue to be bright because of festivals like the International Youth Silent Film Festival."

Steve Oster

"I am honored to be involved with a project that supports young people in using the visual medium to tell a story. As a kid who grew up making movies for my school book reports, I can attest to the positive influence that having a creative outlet like IYSFF can have on youth. It is exactly the experience that set my own career path into motion."

Chuck Palahniuk

"Dialogue has always been my least-favorite aspect of storytelling. It's never as effective as gesture and action. I can't wait to see what these young filmmakers do without it."

Tara Johnson-Medinger

"Young people have amazing stories to tell. Festivals like this give them an opoortunity to share their stories to a wider audience in creative ways. I am honored to take part in this wonderful event."