How I Learned to Die

How I Learned to Die Poster

Midwest Premiere

Showings

Festival tickets go on sale March 18, with visionaries and members receiving early access for ticket purchase.

April 10, 2026
2:20 pm – 4:01 pm
Playhouse Square Campus
Playhouse Square Allen Theatre
April 11, 2026
4:55 pm – 6:36 pm
Cedar Lee Theatre

About This Film

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Festival Year: 2026
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Run Time: 20 Minutes
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Film Type: Short
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Animated: No
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Genre: Drama
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Countr(ies): USA
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Language: English
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English Subtitles: No
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Captions: Closed
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Release Year: 2025

Film Overview

How I Learned to Die is a coming-of-age comedy drama seen through the eyes of Iris, a 16-year-old girl. The film opens with Iris discovering she must undergo a high-risk surgery with a 60% chance of dying. Iris dives into a four-day whirlwind of “firsts”: first kiss, first drunken night out, first driving fast and free. But the moments she doesn’t plan for—losing a pet, seeing her parents age with fears and flaws—are what truly shake her. In her candid, offbeat narration to the audience, Iris reflects on the messy beauty of life with refreshing humor and honesty. With every reckless adventure, she stumbles into truths that cut deeper than her bucket list ever could. Brave and overflowing with soul, Iris’s journey isn’t about escape or survival; it’s about the courage to face life with eyes wide open.

Cast & Crew

Directed By

Manya Glassman Headshot
Manya Glassman

Produced By

Nile Price, Victor Pigasse, Manya Glassman

Screenwriting

Manya Glassman

Cinematographers

Marshall Cooper

Editors

Rob Tinworth

Principal Cast

Lola Darling, Rebecca Gibel, John Hillner, Aijia Tang, James Wert