HOUSTON – Stories shape how people see the world, but not every voice gets the same space on screen. What started as a conversation between two friends eventually grew into the Rung Film Festival, created to give Pakistani filmmakers and creatives a platform to share stories that reflect a wider range of lived experiences.
The festival returns for its third year at Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston (MATCH) on May 16 and 17. The two-day event brings together filmmakers working in front of and behind the camera whose stories are not often represented in mainstream entertainment.
Co-founder Shahid Iqbal and festival director Fahad Shaikh stopped by the “Houston Life” studio to talk about the upcoming festival. Watch their complete interview in the video above.
Each year, the festival receives more than 100 submissions from international filmmakers. Entries are accepted from any country or language, as long as one Pakistani creative is involved in some capacity.
Past festivals featured international submissions from countries including Kazakhstan, Hong Kong and South Korea, and this year’s lineup continues that global reach. From documentaries exploring ageism, mental health and identity to comedy and horror feature films, audiences can enjoy a variety of genres tied to Pakistani creatives involved in each project.
According to Iqbal, “We are a minority in the minority,” stressing the importance of amplifying these stories to the forefront.
In addition to screenings, this year’s programming includes panel discussions exploring the social impact of storytelling in film, minority women in cinema and whether Houston’s Bayou City could become the next production hub for filmmakers.
Organizers say the festival continues to receive more submissions from female storytellers each year. This year, a dedicated block of short films directed by women will be featured as part of the festival program.
The Rung Film Festival takes place at MATCH on May 16 and 17, featuring screenings and panel discussions exploring storytelling, representation and the impact of cinema.
To help bring more awareness to the festival, organizers are offering attendees 30% off tickets. Use promo code EBD26 when purchasing tickets online at matchouston.org/events/2026/rung-film-festival-2026
For more information about the festival, visit rungfilmfest.org.