A Festival Born from Purpose
In a world saturated with violence and sensationalism, actress and filmmaker Nora Armani asked herself a simple question in 2013: What if cinema could be a force for good? That question sparked the creation of the SR Socially Relevant Film Festival, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting films that tell human-interest stories and address pressing social issues. Now in its 13th year, the festival has screened over 795 films from 40 countries, proving that meaningful entertainment and social awareness can coexist beautifully.
The 2026 edition of SRFF takes place March 10-15 at 100 La Salle Street in New York, continuing Armani's mission to counter the proliferation of violent storytelling with narratives that promote peace, understanding, and environmental consciousness.
A Platform Endorsed by Visionaries
The festival's credibility speaks through its spokespersons and honor awardees. Amy Goodman of Democracy Now, environmental activist Erin Brockovich, acclaimed actor Martin Sheen, and Pulitzer Prize-winner Robert Schenkkan have all lent their voices to SRFF's mission. The 2023 edition honored powerhouse producer Gale Anne Hurd, filmmaker Tonya Lewis Lee, and actress Nicole Ansari-Cox, while the 2025 festival celebrated Karren Karagulian, the Armenian-American actor who captivated audiences in the critically acclaimed film Anora.
These aren't just celebrity endorsements—they represent a community of artists who believe cinema can spark conversation, challenge assumptions, and ultimately change hearts and minds.
Armenian Cinema Takes Center Stage
For the Armenian community, SRFF holds special significance. Nora Armani, herself a prominent figure in Armenian arts and culture, has ensured that Armenian voices remain part of the festival's fabric. The 2026 edition will feature a special Armenian Films program, details of which will be announced soon. This dedicated programming recognizes the rich storytelling tradition of Armenian filmmakers and their unique perspectives on universal human experiences.
Armani's journey from actress to festival founder reflects a broader Armenian cultural value: the belief that art carries responsibility. Her work with SRFF demonstrates how one person's vision can create a platform that amplifies voices often marginalized in mainstream cinema.
More Than Just Screenings
What sets SRFF apart isn't just the films it shows, but the conversations it sparks. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the festival operates on the principle that cinema should serve the community. Each screening becomes an opportunity for dialogue, reflection, and connection. The festival's commitment to raising awareness about social issues—from environmental justice to human rights—transforms passive viewing into active engagement.
Over the years, SRFF has cultivated an audience that comes not just to watch films, but to be part of a movement. The festival's tagline, "Socially Relevant," has become more than a descriptor—it's a standard, a promise that every film selected will offer something of substance.
Supporting the Mission
As a nonprofit, SRFF relies on community support to continue its work. Donations are tax-deductible, and every contribution helps bring more meaningful stories to the screen. The festival maintains an active presence on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, building a year-round community of film lovers committed to socially conscious storytelling.
For those interested in attending, tickets are available through the festival's website at ratedsrfilms.org. Whether you're a longtime supporter or discovering SRFF for the first time, the 2026 edition promises six days of cinema that matters—films that entertain, enlighten, and inspire action.
In an era when it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the world's challenges, the SR Socially Relevant Film Festival offers something precious: hope delivered through the power of storytelling. Nora Armani's vision continues to prove that cinema, at its best, doesn't just reflect the world—it helps us imagine how to change it.
