In a powerful intersection of independent filmmaking and social impact, the upcoming horror short Mirror Mirror has been named an official selection at the 2025 Dances With Films Festival, set to premiere at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. Produced in collaboration with Philadelphia-based nonprofit Big Picture Alliance, the film not only delivers a chilling supernatural tale but also uplifts the voices and talents of underserved youth through its grassroots production roots. With a story that blends personal fears of impending parenthood with authentic Black cultural representation, Mirror Mirror promises to resonate with audiences far beyond the horror genre. For more information, check out the press release below and trailer below.
Independent horror film “Mirror Mirror” has been officially selected to premiere at Dances With Films one of the most respected showcases for emerging filmmakers in Hollywood. The film will debut at the historic TCL Chinese Theatre on June 21 at 11:00 PM, providing a rare opportunity for audiences to experience this haunting story on the big screen.
“Mirror Mirror” was produced in collaboration with “The Big Picture Alliance” a Philadelphia non-profit. Big Picture Alliance’s digital media programs, independent filmmaking, and paid apprenticeships provide Philly youth ages 12-24 with the tools to tell their own stories and the skills to succeed in school, life, and career. The organization’s mission is to empower youth to define their own narrative through filmmaking and cultivate a new generation of storytellers who contribute towards a more inclusive, equitable, and just society.
Set in Upstate New York, the film follows a young Black couple expecting their first child who, after purchasing a foreclosed manor for a bargain, begin to experience disturbing visions in the home’s antique mirrors. As supernatural threats escalate, they must confront their deepest fears to protect their unborn child.
Director Drew Phillips, a white filmmaker, emphasizes the importance of authenticity in telling stories rooted in Black experiences. “Let’s talk about the elephant in the room,” Phillips states. “I’m a white director telling a story about a Black family — that’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly. Authenticity is paramount.”
He continues, “This film is also a personal journey. As a new father myself, I understand the sleepless nights, the fierce love, and the fears of parenthood that transcend race. I wrote this script while my wife was six months pregnant with our first child.”
Phillips credits three Black men — Montavius, Marcus, and Johnath — as vital collaborators whose lived experiences, humor, and wisdom infuse the film. “Their voices are woven into every frame,” he says. “Without them, this film wouldn’t just be incomplete — it wouldn’t exist.”
A Love Letter to Family and Black Culture:
“Mirror Mirror” celebrates the strength and beauty of the African American family, emphasizing universal themes of love, fear, and resilience. The film intentionally sidesteps political or social commentary, focusing instead on the shared human experience of parenthood. “This isn’t a film about race,” Phillips emphasizes. “It’s about the fears of raising a child. The culture is authentic, but the story is universal.”
Festival Details:
Event: Dances With Films 2025
Screening: June 21, 2025
Time: 11:00 PM
Location: TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood