From directing traffic to directing film programming – Joe Stevens has come full circle at the Portland Film Festival, now marking his sixth year as Director of Programming.
Stevens began his journey with the festival as a volunteer in traffic management, helping guide fIlmmakers and coordinate logistics. His passion for film, led him to help program the indigenous film program. Six years later, he oversees one of the festival’s most critical functions: selecting the films that audiences will experience during the annual celebration of independent cinema.
As Programming Director, Stevens helps guide filmmakers through the selection process, works with production teams to ingest films and marketing materials, and ensures film screenings run smoothly. He’s helped select the films that will screen at this year’s festival.
“Joe embodies what we love about the Portland Film Festival – he started as a volunteer and grew with us through dedication and passion for film. His eye for compelling stories and his ability to work with filmmakers has elevated our programming year after year,” said Josh Leake, Executive Director of the Portland Film Festival.
The 2025 Portland Film Festival, featuring Stevens’ programming selections, runs October 1-5 at the Center for Native Arts + Cultures. Tickets go on sale September 25th.
Interested in following Stevens’ footsteps? The festival will host a Programmers Meetup and Workshop on Saturday, October 4th at 3:10pm at the Center for Native Arts + Cultures for people interested in working and volunteering with the Portland Film Festival and helping select films for next year’s festival.
