Organized entirely by University of Iowa students through CINE:2863, the 2025 Iowa City Documentary Film Festival (ICDOCS) showcased more than 60 documentary films alongside feature-length screenings, filmmaker talks, and community events. With a festival theme of “Metamorphosis,” students gained real-world experience in programming, marketing, outreach, and event planning, resulting in record audience engagement and significant social media growth. The festival highlighted the importance of experiential learning, collaboration, and expanded career pathways within documentary film and arts administration.

Six filmmakers from the University of Iowa continued a long-standing tradition at the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival (CRIFF) this past April, showcasing their films alongside other independent works while contributing to the festival's celebration of emerging talent and creative storytelling.