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DIFF 2025 - Take Note: A Panel on Music for Film
Join us for Take Note, an exclusive conversation discussing the powerful intersection of music & film. Presented by Virgin Hotels Dallas and DIFF, this panel discussion with Abraham Alexander, Anna Lascurain & Clint Bentley will dive into the creative process of writing and integrating original songs for the screen. From translating emotion into melody to collaborating with filmmakers, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how music helps shape unforgettable cinematic moments.
Whether you're seasoned filmmaker or aspiring songwriter, this is your chance to hear the stories behind the songs - and the films they help bring to life.
THE DETAILS:
Wednesday, April 30 from 3-4:30 PM | Check-in begins at 2:30 PM
Event located on the 4th floor of Virgin Hotels Dallas | 1445 Turtle Creek Blvd
Space is limited, RSVP is required for entry
Limited valet parking available onsite
PANELISTS:
Abraham Alexander
Born in Greece and transplanted to Texas at 11 to escape racial tension, Abraham Alexander’s journey is marked by resilience and instinct. After a tragic accident took his mother, he pursued soccer until a torn ACL led him to music. Picking up a guitar unlocked songs he didn’t know he had, leading to chance encounters—like one with Leon Bridges—that shaped his path. His debut album Sea/Sons (Dualtone Records) blends folk, pop, rock, R&B, gospel, and electronic influences, reflecting themes of loss, redemption, and joy. Most recently, his collaboration “Like A Bird” from A24’s Sing Sing was nominated for an Oscar.
Anna Garcia Lascurain
Senior Producer and Music Supervisor at Squeak E. Clean Studios, Anna brings 15+ years of experience in music production, audio post, and licensing for film, TV, and advertising. She’s led major campaigns for Apple, Verizon, Slack, and Instacart. Previously, she held roles at Search Party NY and Sub Pop Records, with film credits including The Vow, Friends with Kids, and Grey Gardens. Anna is also passionate about mentoring emerging music professionals.
Clint Bentley
Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Clint Bentley made his directorial debut with JOCKEY (Sundance 2021, Sony Pictures Classics). His work includes TRANSPECOS (SXSW Audience Award) and SING SING (A24), which earned multiple Oscar, BAFTA, and Critics Choice nominations, plus AFI and NBR Top 10 honors. His latest film, TRAIN DREAMS, premiered at Sundance 2025 and was acquired by Netflix. Bentley co-founded ETHOS, a production company supporting original work and equitable financing for artists.
About Virgin Hotels Dallas:
Virgin Hotels Dallas is the second property from Virgin Hotels - the lifestyle hospitality brand that combines heartfelt service, straightforward value and a seamless, personalized hotel experience with the track record of innovation and smart disruption that Sir Richard Branson's global Virgin Group has pioneered for 50 years. The property intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music and culture that fuses with the local landscape, providing an inclusive environment for travelers and locals alike. Located in the Dallas Design District on 1445 Turtle Creek Blvd, the hotel features 268 Chambers (rooms) and two Penthouse Suites. Dining and drinking outlets include Commons Club, the brand’s flagship restaurant and bar, Funny Library Coffee Shop and The Pool Club. Reservations accepted and can be made directly on the hotel’s website, www.virginhotels.com/dallas or by calling 469.359.7003.
About DIFF | Dallas International Film Festival:
DIFF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts and culture organization established as Dallas Film Society, Inc. in 2006. Through year-round screenings, film series, educational programs, community partnerships, and film festivals, DIFF builds community and raises awareness of the world’s most approachable and inclusive art form.
Named by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as an Oscar® Qualifying Festival, The Dallas International Film Festival is the signature presentation of the organization. Through curation of the broadest range of expression through film, DIFF serves as the region’s most powerfully inclusive and equitable platform for diverse, emerging and underrepresented voices. Since its founding, DIFF has screened more than 2,500 widely diverse new films from 60 countries, provided more than $1.1 million in awards and hosted more than 100,000 filmgoers and filmmakers.
DIFF is committed to celebrating films and their impact on society, honoring filmmakers and recognizing their contribution enhancing both the creative community and the city of Dallas, providing leadership in film education, and celebrating excellence in the art of film. More information is available at www.diffdallas.org.
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3019871-0
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3019871-2
