Lily Aster Gottfried, a recent high school graduate from New York City who will be a freshman at University of Texas Austin, is an emerging filmmaker with three award-winning shorts.
Her first film, The Hidden Talent of Gilbert Gottfried, was inspired by the passing of her father. Although best known for his comedy, Gilbert was also an accomplished visual artist—a side of him few people knew. Lily’s film showcases this lesser-known aspect of his life, celebrating his artistic talent.
Her second documentary, Stand by Me – The Birth of the Supportive Housing Movement, was inspired by her internship at Saint Francis Friends of the Poor. It chronicles the birth of supportive housing for the homeless with severe mental illness. The film has been used to raise awareness and generate funds for a new residence, which will provide housing for an additional 100 individuals in need.
Her latest film, Subject 61, which she wrote, directed, and edited, was her first scripted fiction short film. It won the Alliance Film Festival Award for the Best High School film in all of New York State!
Lily Aster Gottfried 