Ericka Atwell-Cardona Elevates the Rhode Island International Film Festival's Global Status with Her Hollywood Experience

Ericka Atwell-Cardona, the new director of community outreach for the Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF), is leveraging her extensive Hollywood background to elevate this year's event. With a career spanning casting, producing, acting, and media coaching, Atwell brings the versatility needed to advance the arts in Rhode Island.

After spending years in Los Angeles, Atwell-Cardona returned to Rhode Island with a wealth of experience from her varied roles in the entertainment industry. "Having lived in LA for 13 years, I wore many hats on and off many sets. I've worked in casting, producing, acting, consulting, media coaching, writing, public relations, social media, marketing, red carpet hosting, and even as an executive assistant to A-list stars – you name it, I’ve done it," she remarks.

Atwell-Cardona’s collaboration with RIIFF’s executive director, Shawn Quirk, began with a chance meeting at a Rhode Island film office event and blossomed into a productive partnership. After seven months of planning and preparation, they have laid the foundation for an unforgettable festival.

A key highlight of this year’s festival is the Females in Film: From Action to End Credits panel, organized byAtwell-Cardona’s production company, EJOYA Productions. This panel will feature prominent industry figures, including Warner Bros. Pictures' Courtney McNulty, Bo Youngblood of Showdown Productions, and actors Tiffany Smith and Kelsie McDonald. Local radio personality Bekah Berger from 92.3 PRO-FM will bring a regional presence to the event.

EJOYA Productions has also partnered with The Hollywood Reporter to uplift the festival's visibility on a global scale, highlighting RIIFF's status as one of the premier Oscar-qualifying film festivals on the East Coast.

Since its inception in 1997, RIIFF has been a dedicated supporter of independent filmmakers, showcasing over 85 films that have gone on to receive Oscar nominations, with 12 winning the prestigious award. This year's festival continues that tradition, offering aspiring filmmakers the chance to showcase their work and network with industry veterans.

Opening night on August 6 promises to be a star-studded affair, featuring a red carpet event with films by celebrated artists such as Francesca Scorsese, David Cross, and Cristo Fernández from TV series Ted Lasso.

Atwell-Cardona emphasizes that RIIFF's impact extends beyond the glitz and glamor. "RIIFF has featured over 85 films that have gone on to become Oscar nominees, with 12 winning the coveted award," Atwell-Cardona notes with pride. As one of the most prestigious Oscar-qualifying festivals on the East Coast, RIIFF serves as a gateway for filmmakers worldwide.

For aspiring filmmakers Atwell-Cardona's advice is straightforward: "Show up. Network. Get a group of creative friends together and make something." She highlights the importance of kindness and humility in the industry, encouraging filmmakers to seize opportunities and build genuine connections.

Looking to the future, Atwell-Cardonall envisions Rhode Island becoming a hub for indie talent and Hollywood productions. "I hope to see not only the RIIFF grow but also the Hollywood presence in Rhode Island continue to expand." RIIFF takes place August 6-11 at venues throughout Providence. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Film-Festival.org. To stay updated on the latest insights and happenings, follow on Instagram: @flickers.riiff.