DILI, 17 July 2026 (TATOLI) — U.S. Embassy Dili, in partnership with the Dili International Film Festival (DIFF), has launched Freedom 250: The Spirit of America in Film – a series of film screenings and workshops planned over the coming months as part of the global Freedom 250 initiative celebrating America’s 250th birthday, offering Timorese audiences an engaging platform to explore American cinema and our shared values of education, perseverance, creativity, opportunity, and community. The long, storied tradition of American excellence in filmmaking is no longer just in Hollywood – it belongs to the world.
The kickoff on July 16 at Fundação Oriente was a free screening of Akeelah and the Bee, an inspiring film about confidence, mentorship, and the transformative power of education. Students, emerging creatives, DIFF alumni, diplomatic representatives, and the broader Timorese public attended, enjoying a challenging Spelling Bee demo and classic movie snacks.
In August, DIFF and the U.S. Embassy will organize hands-on filmmaking workshops led by U.S. film educator Professor DJ Johnson — a three-time returnee to Timor-Leste and longtime mentor to young Timorese filmmakers — covering storytelling, filmmaking techniques, creative development, and career pathways for approximately 30 participants, and concluding with a curated screening.
Then on October 15, U.S. Movie Night at DIFF26 will feature a screening of the eternal classic Forrest Gump at Platinum Cineplex, Timor Plaza – an instant American classic celebrating resilience, kindness, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Other screenings are in planning stages now and will be announced soon.
U.S. Embassy Dili is proud to continue its longstanding partnership with DIFF and PixelAsia Productions, with whom we look forward to celebrating storytelling and the arts while strengthening the bonds of friendship between the American and Timorese people.
TATOLI
