Margaret Mead Film Festival
Nestled in the Museum’s iconic halls, the Margaret Mead Film Festival serves as more than a cinematic event. It is a celebration of voices and perspectives from around the world, inviting attendees to come together to explore the rich, vibrant tapestry that is our shared human experience.
The three-day celebration taking place from Friday, May 2—Sunday, May 4, will present storytelling, documentary films, and live performance from diverse voices near and far.
Weekend Passes Available Now
Experience everything the Margaret Mead Film Festival has to offer with a weekend pass, which includes the opening night film and reception plus all other screenings for $75 ($50 for Members).
Opening Night Film: Seeds
Georgia farmers Willie Head Jr. and Carlie Williams fight for their land’s future as they navigate a shifting agricultural landscape and delayed U.S. Department of Agriculture funding for Black farmers. Shot in striking black and white, Seeds captures their resilience and expertise as they confront bureaucracy in Washington, offering a contemplative portrait of Black agricultural heritage and the struggle for restorative justice.
Tickets will be available for the complete film line-up on April 3rd, 2025.
Festival Information
Opening night film tickets are $20 ($15 for Members and students) and includes the welcome reception.
Weekend passes are available for $75 ($50 for Members) and include the opening night film and reception, plus all other screenings.
Tickets will be available for the complete film line-up on April 3rd, 2025.
Entrance for all Margaret Mead Film Festival programs is on 77th Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue.
If you have questions about accessibility at the Mead, or would like to request an accommodation, please contact us at [email protected] or 212-769-5305.
Awards
The Margaret Mead Filmmaker Award recognizes documentary filmmakers who embody the spirit, energy, and innovation demonstrated by anthropologist Margaret Mead in her research, fieldwork, films, and writings.
The award is given to a filmmaker whose feature-length documentary displays artistic excellence and originality in storytelling technique while offering a new perspective on cultures and communities. Filmmakers with works making their New York premieres at the festival are eligible.
The Audience Award, voted on by Margaret Mead Film Festival attendees, celebrates the power of community engagement and the diverse perspectives that enrich the cinematic experience, fostering a vibrant dialogue between filmmakers and their audience. Films making their New York premiere at the festival are eligible.