As we prepare to welcome filmmakers and audiences from around the world to the 14th edition of the International Filmmaker Festival of New York (IFFNY), we are proud to announce this year’s distinguished jury. Composed of accomplished artists, critics, and visionaries from across the globe, the 2025 jury brings together a diverse range of voices and creative perspectives. Their expertise spans film, music, theater, and media—ensuring a thoughtful and inclusive evaluation of the powerful stories submitted to this year’s festival. Each jury member contributes not only their professional experience but also a deep passion for independent cinema and artistic innovation.
Robert Haufrecht- Actor/Writer/Director
Robert Haufrecht, has written and directed three short films, Subterranean Love and Subterranean Love (Ileana & Paul) and Subterranean Love (Olga), which have won numerous awards (Best Director, Best Short Film, Best Screenplay, Special Jury) at festivals in the US, Europe and Türkiye. His next film noir titled “It Was The Dog” is in pre-production. He is a member of the Directors Unit at the Actors Studio in New York and, as actor, SAG-AFTRA. Robert has performed in and directed many plays in the US, as well as in Paris and Berlin. He has been a juror for the Fotofilm Short Festival in Türkiye and the International Filmmakers Festival NY. Most recently he played the role of his father in his sister, Marcia Haufrecht’s short film “Family” (soon to hit the festival circuit). Also, see Robert’s iMDB page.
Klevis Bega (Kastro Zizo)-Singer/Actor/Producer
Klevis Bega (Kastro Zizo) is a renowned Albanian artist, recognized for his versatile career as a singer, actor, producer, and television personality spanning over 25 years. He is a long-standing jury member on Albanians Got Talent and represented Albania at the 2012 Academy Awards as both lead actor and producer. Honored with more than 40 national and international awards, Bega was named “Artist of the Year” by the U.S. Congress. In addition to his artistic achievements, he leads the non-profit organization E ardhmja ime, e tashmja ime, and is the founder of URTA Fest, a forward-looking festival celebrating emerging voices in contemporary music and culture.
Natasha Ruth – Movie Critic
Natasha Ruth was born in West Africa and moved to the US with her family when she was 6 years old. She pursued her studies in movie criticism in Los Angeles and has since traveled extensively around the world, critiquing films at numerous prestigious film festivals. Natasha Ruth is not only passionate about film criticism but also shares her knowledge as a teacher in the fields of movie analysis and social media. She enjoys imparting her expertise to aspiring filmmakers and enthusiasts alike, helping them navigate the intricate world of cinema and digital communication.
Adam K Scarborough-Actor/Writer/Director
Adam K Scarborough is an English Actor, Writer, and Director. He graduated at LAMDA with Honors (2004). Born into an entertainment family, Father – professional Musician (with Edmundo Ros Orchestra, Laurie Johnson, Chick Corea and beyond). Mother- Model, Actress, Playboy Bunny. A qualified Mental Heath Officer, Adam was also destined to be involved in the creative/performing arts, in some capacity.
Due to his military experience in British Army, he became Drill Instructor/Military Advisor on Stephen Spielberg’s ‘Band Of Brothers’ ( Dreamworks/Playtone Films & HBO) working close to Tom Hanks and American actor and technical advisor Dale Dye.
Acting credits include Sky TV’s Dream Team as Prison Officer, Pepsi Cola , Norton Finance ( TV Commercials) and Häagen-Dazs. Doubled for Liam Neeson (League Of Shadows) in Christopher Nolan’s Batman Begins (2004.) Appeared at Harlow Playhouse, West Essex , England with Allsorts Theatre Company. Winner of 2023 iHollywood International Film Festival, Planet Cinema, New York Tri-State International Film Festival, Kubrick Awards and others. His own film projects include Lady Of Light, The Transcendent Nun and “Where’s The Money?” Much of his work has focused on the experimental/surreal genre, some difficult to classify. Adam works on different averages, including Documentaries, which includes Spring In Chigwell. Adam recieved recognition having his project Spring In Chigwell at the www.iffny.com in 2024.
Jagraj Singh Wasan- Filmmaker/Musician
Jagraj Singh Wasan is a filmmaker and musician who works in music videos, commercials, and film. His latest project is a TV pilot accompanied by a music album, releasing later this year.
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