
Our friends at KitSplit put together a list of some of the smaller film festivals that we love, with a focus on those that have deadlines coming up.
In doing their research, they noticed something funny – no one is talking about which film festivals are good for industry newbies & up-and-comers. We don’t all get a Sundance acceptance right out of the gate (and we can’t all afford the submission fees) but that doesn’t mean your work isn’t worthy of being seen. In fact, far from it.
Smaller festivals can be both fun and impactful on your career, so don’t forget to do your research and take a chance. Application season can be both exciting and discouraging – so make sure you take care of you first and foremost!
Smaller than Sundance! Ready? Let’s go!

Portland Film Festival • Deadline 8/11

Atlanta Underground Film Fest • Early Deadline 8/18

Video Art & Experimental Film Festival • Deadline 8/27

LA Film Fest – Independent Filmmakers Showcase • Deadline 8/27

Hollywood Reel Independent Festival • Discounted Until 8/28

Boulder International Film Festival • Deadline 9/7

Santa Monica International Film Festival • Deadline 9/15
Ready to brush up on your industry skills? Did you forget how to apply for things during the pandemic?
Check out these classes and events we’re pumped about!
- 8/10 How to Build a Career in Hollywood
Offered by the LA Times
- 8/13 The Distribution Down Low
Offered by Seed & Spark
- 8/15 How to Write a Spec(-tacular) Script
Offered by Chicago ScreenWriters Network
- 8/26 Short Film Distribution
Offered by BlackMagic Collective
SOURCE: KitSplit
For national news coverage go to Reel360.com