(TEANECK, NJ) -- The Teaneck International Film Festival (TIFF) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with the ReelAbilities Film Festival—the largest film festival in the world dedicated to films by and about people with disabilities. This marks the first time TIFF will serve as an official New Jersey host site for ReelAbilities, further advancing its commitment to inclusive storytelling and diverse voices.
In collaboration with Puffin Cultural Forum, TIFF will present the New Jersey premiere of Horsegirls on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the Puffin Cultural Forum (20 Puffin Way) in Teaneck. The event takes place at 7:00pm and will be followed by a talkback with lead actress Lillian Carrier. Tickets are $12.45 (service fee included) and available for purchase online. All films are presented with open captions, and all venues are fully accessible to mobility devices.
Horsegirls was recently picked up for distribution and will have its theatrical premiere later this year—making this screening a unique opportunity for audiences to experience the film well in advance and engage directly with its star during a live discussion.
Directed by Lauren Meyering in her feature directorial debut, Horsegirls centers on Margarita (Lillian Carrier), a 22-year-old autistic woman determined to prove her independence to her mother (Gretchen Mol). As she navigates early adulthood, Margarita discovers the world of competitive hobby horsing—mastering her skills on a stick horse—as a pathway to confidence, identity, and self-determination.
Horsegirls is a film about an autistic woman finding independence, featuring a cast of authentically autistic actors and exploring the viral hobby horsing trend with originality and heart. The film offers a thoughtful coming-of-age story grounded in neurodiversity, connection, and personal growth, creating an engaging and accessible experience for youth audiences and families alike.
The film also stars Jerod Haynes (Native Son) and Tony Hale (Love, Simon), rounding out a dynamic ensemble cast.
Meyering helmed the project from her screenplay, which was featured on the prestigious 2020 Black List, and drew inspiration from the family life of producer Mackenzie Breeden. The film is produced by Breeden alongside Alix Madigan and Michael Sherman.
Lead actress Lillian Carrier delivers a breakout performance as Margarita, bringing remarkable authenticity, emotional depth, and nuance to the role. Carrier is part of a new generation of performers helping to expand representation of neurodivergent individuals on screen. Her work is distinguished by its honesty and sensitivity, and Horsegirls marks a significant milestone in her emerging career, positioning her as a compelling new voice in independent film. Audiences attending the screening will have the rare opportunity to hear directly from Carrier during the post-film talkback, offering insight into her process and the lived experience behind the performance.
"We are honored to partner with ReelAbilities and bring Horsegirls to New Jersey audiences as part of this global celebration of disability storytelling," said Jeremy Lentz, Executive Director of the Teaneck International Film Festival. "This film embodies the kind of authentic, human-centered storytelling that TIFF is committed to championing. To present it ahead of its theatrical release—and to give audiences the opportunity to engage directly with Lillian Carrier in conversation—makes this an especially meaningful and impactful event for our community."
The 2026 ReelAbilities Film Festival 2026 runs April 23–30 across New York, New Jersey, and online, showcasing groundbreaking films and conversations that celebrate disability, inclusion, and accessibility in the arts.
This partnership represents a significant milestone for TIFF and the broader New Jersey arts community, bringing global disability-focused cinema to local audiences and fostering meaningful dialogue around representation and inclusion.
