Humanist Film Series: Short Film Festival

March is Academy Awards month so on Friday, March 13, 2026 we’ll do the first ever HFS Short Film Festival. We’ll screen a selection of six Oscar-winning short films, a mix of animation and live action, including The Red Balloon (G, 1956) and The Man Who Planted Trees (G, 1987).
Come and discover some rarely-seen but truly excellent, discussion-worthy motion pictures that are only half-an-hour long or less.

Arrive around 6:30 PM for a little socializing; as always, bring your own beverage. Snacks will be provided but feel free to bring something to share if you'd like. The films start at 7:00 PM followed by some post-movie banter for those who care to linger and mingle.

Looking ahead: on Friday, April 10, 2026, we’ll recognize the life and contributions of Gene Roddenberry, creator of Star Trek and AHA’s Humanist of the Year in 1991, by viewing the director’s cut version of Star Trek: The Motion Picture (G, 1979). Afterwards, HumanistsMN own Scott Lohman (past president and host of the HMN Science Fiction Book Group) will give us an insightful and entertaining half-hour presentation on the enduring cultural and scientific influences of Star Trek and Gene Roddenberry. Come learn how humanism is literally woven into the very fiber of the universe inhabited by Captains Kirk, Picard and Janeway.

This film series is co-sponsored by HumanistsMN and First Unitarian Society of Minneapolis, a humanist congregation. Please consider supporting one or both of these associations to help cover our costs and build the humanist movement. Click on the embedded links above to donate or join.

HumanistsMN is committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and caring community for all our members. We welcome everyone who shares our humanist principles. We acknowledge the dignity and worth of all people -- every race, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, social class, abilities, or disabilities. We actively promote a culture of respect, belonging, and compassion as we strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive. By participating in HumanistsMN events, you agree to conduct yourself in accordance with these values.