As the oldest independent film festival in Washington, the DC Independent Film Festival has a storied history of presenting extraordinary films. We have showcased cutting edge features, shorts and documentaries on every subject from every country with every budget and subject imaginable.
By exhibiting world premiere screenings, hosting timely seminars and workshops, and even sponsoring discussions with the United States Congress, DCIFF gives independent filmmakers opportunities for their voices to be heard in a way that no other festival can provide.
We welcome submissions in the following categories:
We are open to films of any genre except adult films and in any language (with subtitles). We do not have a section dedicated to family films, but love films that appeal to the child in us all. We always have a horror film section, in honor of a genre that has been an important launching point for independent filmmakers. DCIFF 2013 also welcomes open source films, art films and interactive films.
Stipulations: Metro DC Film Premieres required (we do accept films that have had private screenings in DC), East Coast and US Premieres preferred. DCIFF 2012 showcased 3 world feature premieres, two of which already have distribution agreements. While we have screened films that are available in their entirety for public viewing online, this is not our preference. Our submission fees are entirely used to cover the cost of filmmaker support: press, screenings, seminars and outreach. DCIFF is a volunteer-run festival with a fourteen year track record.
