Locarno was buzzing and we were thrilled to be part of it! From Piazza Grande screenings to meaningful discussions with industry professionals, the festival was a perfect stage for sharing stories and setting the tone for the future of film. 

At an industry round table, discussions revealed pressing challenges the industry faces, and Dr. Mattia Rattagi represented on how DCP can offer a practical, blockchain-powered path forward. The film industry is hampered by a disconnect between gatekeepers and stakeholders (such as producers, filmmakers, financiers, distributors), and audiences. DCP and DCP+ democratizes filmmaking access: filmmakers can connect directly with audiences through blockchain-verified profiles, build loyal communities, and integrate secure audience analytics from the earliest development stage, without creative compromise.

We surprised audiences with Unfinished Room, a short crafted by Duwayne Dunham (Legend of the Happy Worker) about the late David Lynch. Hearing about his artistry in his words, and his own voice, in the Piazza Grande was a moving tribute to his legacy. 

At the StepIn lunch, sponsored by Arts3 and DCP, we joined a roundtable on industry financing, sharing DCP’s mission to bring decentralized funding to filmmakers everywhere. 

And then came the world premiere of Legend of the Happy Worker, a living example of how decentralized technology can help bold films find their way to the screen. Directed by Duwayne Dunham and one of the last projects executive-produced by David Lynch, the film was years in the making. DCP and Arts3 helped bring Legend of the Happy Worker to Locarno and it was truly a surreal moment to witness the film in a packed theatre. 

Duwayne Dunham said after the screening, "For real estate, it’s location, location, location. For filmmakers - especially those with a vision - it’s perseverance, perseverance, perseverance."

DCP was also in L.A. this past weekend for another special film screening. Back in 2023 Kevin Smith (yes, that Kevin Smith) generously created and financially supported the Kevin Smith Comedy Screenplay Award. DCP's democratic proposal evaluation process created a short list of screenplays from which Kevin could choose to support. University of Southern California (USC) students Isabella Ares and Gabby Fiszman were selected as the winners to receive $40,000 and mentorship from Kevin to produce their short Holy Smokes. Relive the special announcement here.

Fast forward to Aug 10, 2025 and Holy Smokes had its moment and world premiered at HollyShorts Film Festival in Los Angeles, CA. DCP was able to sit down with Gabby and Isabella to share some of their thoughts and emotions on the big day.
What was the DCP democratic selection process like as a filmmaker?

"Every review evoked a different emotion and that kind of transparency pushed us as filmmakers. It forces you to develop your craft."

How are you feeling now that your short film is complete and getting its world premiere?

"Gratitude. It's been 2 years since experiencing that special moment in our home where we won the award and can't believe this day has arrived."

What advice would you give other filmmakers considering joining a platform like DCP?

"Take the step - take the chance. You miss every opportunity you don't take. Embrace the new opportunities and the feedback received from the community."

Holy Smokes premiered as part of a comedy block at the Oscar Qualifying 2025 HollyShorts Film Festival. The theatre was packed with indie film fans that embraced the comedic storytelling from Gabby and Isabella. They already have other festivals lined up such as Santa Fe, Chelsea, and Calgary with others to follow. Congrats again to the entire cast and crew of Holy Smokes, it was a smoking success!