Premiere Recap-An unforgettable weekend.

Sarah Kanafani
Jul 1
2 min read

One of the opening shots of the movie BirthRight: Born Free | Live Free

Our official premiere at the iconic Laemmle NoHo 7 in North Hollywood was more than just a screening—it was a moment years in the making. We had guests travel from Washington State, Kansas City, Arizona, North Carolina, and even Hawaii to be there. For me, it was deeply personal. Just 25 years ago, I was studying film at the Los Angeles Film Studies Center—and now, here I was, presenting at the premiere of my own film in the very city where it all began.

But this wasn't your average Hollywood night. BirthRight isn’t a feel-good flick designed to entertain and fade from memory. This film is a bold call to action—rooted in truth, purpose, and urgency. This is not a fictional fantasy where the good guys triumph in the end, it’s a call to action so that the good guys CAN win in the end.

Seeing it on the big screen was surreal. The theater even upgraded us to their largest auditorium, and the film looked incredible. With the power of Dolby sound and a massive screen, it was the way this film was meant to be experienced.

Now let’s talk about the crowd…

The room was electric. There were tears, laughter, moments of righteous anger. BirthRight hits every emotional note—and then asks something of you. It inspires deep questions, tough realizations, and eventually, courageous action. That’s mission accomplished in my book.

A huge thank you to Lisa Phillips (our host for the event and one of the executive producers) for her tireless work—scouting locations, organizing the guest list, and handling every detail with heart and precision. From the moment she first handed me the mic at 1776live to cast this vision, to seeing the final product on screen, I couldn’t be more grateful.

To our cast, crew, and all those who contributed behind the scenes—thank you for showing up, supporting this vision, and making this reunion feel like a family gathering. Your fingerprints are on every frame, and your support continues to carry this message forward.

And to everyone who attended: it was memorable sharing meals together, having deep conversations that carried on for hours and sharing a love for theme parks and fast rides. I am honored you would take time out of your busy schedules and make the investment to travel, just to take a seat in that theater. I’m so proud this film has inspired many of you who attended to carry the torch and bring the film to your own town. We look forward to that day.

Another unforgettable showing in the books. More hearts awakened. More minds stirred. And many more screenings ahead. Let’s keep this fire burning. Let’s make BirthRight spread like wildfire.

Here are a few memorable moments from this weekend

Dinner at Stone Hause Winery and Breakfast the next morning at La Rochelle