Jill Gwen, Fox Searchlight CFO (Former), Jury Head of 2025 Global Nonviolent Film Festival

Los Angeles, CA (September 11, 2025). The Global Nonviolent Film Festival, sponsored by Largo.ai, has announced its esteemed jury panel for the 14th annual event, set to take place from September 25 to October 12, streaming on GlobalCinema.online.

Leading the jury is Jill Gwen, former CFO and head of Finance and Operations for Fox Searchlight Pictures. Where she played a pivotal role for 23 years. Jill contributed to Academy Award-winning films such as Birdman, 12 Years a Slave, and Slumdog Millionaire. Along with acclaimed titles like Black Swan, Juno, and Little Miss Sunshine. Jill’s impressive career includes leadership in 20th Century Fox’s International Theatrical Distribution Finance division. And, an early start at Walt Disney Studios. Her speaking engagements include Variety Purpose Summit at the TIFF (2015). Also the Hollywood Reporter’s Power 100 Women in Entertainment mentor program (2016).

---

Joining Ms. Gwen on the jury are three other members: American film director Brad Mays, producer Ruben Roberto Gomez, and Greek journalist Eleni Giannakidou.

Brad Mays is a celebrated director, producer and screenwriter. He has over 30 years of experience in stage, TV, and independent film. He began his career at the McCarter Theatre and directed notable off-Broadway productions. Some including Requiem and The Water Hen. His feature film Stage Fright premiered at the 1989 Berlin International Film Festival. In Hollywood. He created acclaimed works like The Bacchae and a multimedia adaptation of A Clockwork Orange. His documentary Two Trentons: An American City Speaks won Best Director at the Global Nonviolent Film Festival in 2022. Underscoring his commitment to impactful storytelling.

---

Ruben Roberto Gomez is originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is a versatile actor, singer, and producer. Ruben earned a dynamic career spanning over four decades in film, television, and music. He launched his Hollywood journey after signing with CBS Records International. Showcasing his talent for romantic ballads. Ruben has more than 30 film credits to his name. He co-wrote, directed and produced acclaimed feature film The Remake (2016). Alongside his wife, renowned actress Lynne Alana Delaney. Ruben has also made notable appearances in series like Dexter. He passionately advocates for Latino representation in the arts. Ruben does this through his active involvement in SAG-AFTRA and community initiatives.

---

Eleni Giannakidou is a journalist covering cultural events in Greece, particularly in film and theater. She is a contributor to the arts and culture magazine Kulturosupa. Eleni provides insightful reviews of theatrical productions in Thessaloniki. Critically analyzing performances and highlighting exceptional artistic talent. Through her writing, Eleni champions Greece’s dynamic cultural landscape. She is connecting audiences with the rich traditions of film and theater while nurturing a deeper appreciation for the arts.

---

This year, the festival is sponsor is Largo.ai. A pioneering technology company at the forefront of artificial intelligence. Sylvester Stallone is a backer for Largo. Their dedication is to transform the creative landscape of the film and entertainment industry. By harnessing the power of advanced algorithms and data analytics. Largo empowers filmmakers and content creators to enhance storytelling. optimize production processes, and connect with audiences on a deeper level. Committed to innovation and excellence, Largo is proud to be the Official Sponsor of the Global Nonviolent Film Festival. Supporting the vision of showcasing impactful narratives that inspire and uplift without resorting to violence.

The Global Nonviolent Film Festival has evolved from a grassroots movement since its inception in 2012 into a globally recognized event celebrated for showcasing content that is nonpolitical and free of gratuitous violence.

Broadcast annually to a multinational audience in 188 countries on the streaming channel GlobalCinema.online, the festival’s programming attracts discerning viewers who seek content that entertains, inspires, informs, and elevates their cultural understanding. This audience values diverse cultures and artistic expressions, resulting in a rich tapestry of films and documentaries that reflect the world’s vibrant reality.

The festival’s 18-day program is divided into two parts: the Live Period and the Additional Screening Period.

The Live Period: The live event kicks off on September 25 and concludes on October 6 with an hour-long awards show. During this time, the participating films will be screened as they compete for awards determined by the jury. Viewers can enjoy the films—free of charge—from the comfort of their homes, along with daily video presentations hosted by the festival’s organizers.

The Additional Screening Period: Following the awards announcement on October 6, the festival enters its second phase, continuing until October 12. During this period, while there are no new daily presentations, audiences can still watch the participating films, previously broadcast daily presentations, and the awards show at no cost.

The Global Nonviolent Film Festival, recognized as the most important and renowned nonviolent film festival in the world, was founded by film maestro Bruno Pischiutta and producer Daria Trifu, who continue to organize and host the event to this day.

The lineup of films competing at this year’s festival will be announced on September 16. The event runs from September 25 to October 12 on GlobalCinema.online. Be sure to tune in starting September 25, and join the celebration of films that entertain and inspire without showcasing gratuitous violence!

---

You can comment here or on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.