Huron Substation, location of Ashes to Film Festival (Photo – Ashes to Film Festival)
Just off the 110 South, before crossing I-5 into Los Angeles, lies the Huron Substation, home this coming weekend to a unique film festival, even by L.A. standards. Running January 9–11, Ashes to Film: A Film Festival for Fire-Centered Films celebrates resilience, both on screen and behind the camera.
By Melanie Hooks
Founded by filmmaker Shiloh Strong after losing her home to Santa Barbara fires in 2009, the festival features works by those impacted directly by fire and highlights conversations with each that explore resilience and recovery in the face of disaster.
This year’s program includes:
- 9 new short films created by fire-affected filmmakers
- 16 films from Young Filmmakers Program with the New York Film Academy
- A curated selection of stories of resilience from around the world
Each screening features filmmaker Q&As that explore the challenges they faced, how they kept creating, and what it means to rebuild through art. Titles range from the tongue-in-cheek RV short “Eaton Alive” to the real-life inspired animated “Disaster Cats” to international feature “Espina.” Many delve into personal stories inspired by the local fires of a year ago, but there are additional narratives around grief and survival that deal with themes of resilience in the face of disaster.
A timely, non-profit offering by dedicated artists and filmmakers.
Ashes to Film Festival Friday, Jan. 9 - Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026 Screenings throughout the day. Location Huron Substation 2640 Huron Street, Los Angeles, CA 90065 Tickets available online: Block Screenings: $15 Day Passes: $40 All-Event Pass: $115
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