Screenshot still from “The Craftsman”
East County News Service
May 6, 2026 (San Diego) — The GI Film Festival San Diego returns for its 11th year this week, moving into the Museum of Photographic Arts at the San Diego Museum of Art (MOPA @ SDMA) from today, May 6 through May 8.
Among the 15 films scheduled is a high-profile entry from Spring Valley filmmakers Devin and Jeanne Scott.
The Scotts, who have participated in the festival since its 2015 debut, will premiere their latest project, “The Craftsman,” during the Narrative Shorts Block on Friday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.
The Scotts’ 14-minute animated short is nominated for the festival’s Local Choice Award.
Produced using a blend of traditional storytelling and artificial intelligence, the film follows the legacy of a man whose work serves as a reflection on generational memory and reinvention.
Festival highlights and themes
The three-day event, organized by KPBS in partnership with the Film Consortium San Diego, aims to bridge the gap between military and civilian populations. This year’s lineup includes world and regional premieres that focus on post-war healing, resilience and family sacrifice.
Beyond the local spotlight on Spring Valley, other featured films include:
“Hope… In the Aftermath of War”: Directed by veteran Daniel Bernardi, this documentary short makes its world premiere. It explores the domestic ripple effects of combat trauma and addiction through the eyes of a soldier’s daughter.
“Ugo: An Artist at War”: A documentary feature following Maxine Giannini as she uncovers her late husband’s rare World War II sketches—including unique drawings from D-Day at Omaha Beach—and works to preserve his artistic legacy.
“HOME FROM THE VIETNAM WAR”: This feature-length documentary follows a U.S. veteran returning to Vietnam alongside a friend who fled the country as a child. The film captures their journey to former battle sites in search of reconciliation.
Event information
Each screening is followed by a panel discussion featuring the filmmakers, veterans or subject-matter experts to discuss the themes presented on screen.
Tickets are currently on sale at GIFilmFestivalSD.org. General admission is $15 per screening, while military members, veterans and KPBS members can purchase tickets for $10.
Opening night tickets are $25 for the general public and $20 for the military community.
Official sponsors of the 2026 festival are the USAA Educational Foundation, Scatena Media Group, Singleton Schreiber, Dexcom, The Elizabeth Hospice, US Bank, Verizon and Wounded Warrior Project.
Additional support is provided by AARP, the California Film Commission, National University, Navy League San Diego, SAG-AFTRA, Southwestern College, and Viejas Casino & Resort.