Catherine Hardwicke is an American filmmaker best known for directing emotionally resonant coming-of-age stories and visually distinctive dramas. She first gained widespread acclaim with Thirteen (2003), a raw portrait of adolescence that established her reputation for authentic portrayals of young people. She followed with Lords of Dogtown (2005), chronicling the rise of the legendary Z-Boys skateboard team, before directing Twilight (2008), whose worldwide success helped launch one of the most influential young adult film franchises of the 21st century. Across her career, Hardwicke has become known for blending intimate character-driven storytelling with evocative visual style in films that explore identity, belonging, and the challenges of growing up.
What began as a small dream between film lovers 27 years ago has grown into one of the nation’s top indie film festivals. Based in the renowned artists’ colony of Woodstock, WFF is a nonprofit film and arts organization offering engaging, year-round programming throughout the Hudson Valley to strengthen and inspire the surrounding creative community.
The 27th Annual Woodstock Film Festival returns October 14–18, 2026, bringing five days of dynamic, thought-provoking independent cinema; intimate panels with leading filmmakers and industry voices; engaging Q&As; live music; and more. Get your tickets and join WFF at next year’s festival and experience what Ethan Hawke calls“a festival that isn't trying to sell you anything, but simply and beautifully celebrating the art & craft of filmmaking.”