The Armenian Film Society hit a major milestone this September, celebrating 10 years of elevating Armenian voices in cinema with a powerful anniversary gala during the 2025 Armenian Film Festival in Glendale. Melkoni Media was there in the middle of it all, capturing the moments that mattered.

Held at Vertigo, the closing night gala brought together a vibrant mix of filmmakers, producers, actors, and creatives from across the Armenian diaspora. The atmosphere was electric. A room filled with talent, storytelling, and a shared pride in how far Armenian cinema has come.

Melkoni Media covered the evening on the ground, from red carpet arrivals to exclusive interviews with some of the most exciting voices in film today. Conversations, reactions, and behind-the-scenes moments gave a real look into the people driving Armenian storytelling forward.

This year’s honorees, Karren Karagulian, Madeline Sharafian, and Sev Ohanian, were recognized for their contributions to film and their role in expanding Armenian representation on a global scale. Each of them represents a different lane of success, but all share the same mission of bringing authentic stories to wider audiences.

The gala closed out a strong week for the Armenian Film Festival, which ran September 3 through 7 and brought international audiences and industry professionals to Glendale. Over the past decade, the Armenian Film Society has grown into more than just a festival. It has become a launchpad for filmmakers, a connector of communities, and a driving force behind the global reach of Armenian cinema.

And if this night proved anything, it is that the spotlight on Armenian storytelling is only getting brighter.