The Access Film Festival brings world-class cinema to MetroWest while showcasing and supporting our own local talent. More than just an exhibition of inspiring films across all genres, our festival is a vibrant community hub hosted in partnership with Access Framingham.

We offer an exhilarating mix of informative workshops, fresh international and local films, and lively networking events. Whether you’re a filmmaker looking to expand your network and celebrate your craft, or a neighbor eager to experience stories you won't see anywhere else, the Access Film Festival is where our community connects through the art of film.

Awards & Prizes

Awards may include:
Best Film
Best Actor (all genders)
Best Supporting Actor (all genders)
Best Script
Best Director
Best Cinematography
Best Composer/Soundtrack
Best Sound (overall quality and mix)
Best Metrowest Film
Best Student Film

In addition to screening at the festival, some films may also be offered the opportunity to be broadcast on television.

Rules & Terms

• All short films must be under 20 minutes in length.
• Long films include any film over 20 minutes and under 41 minutes.
• All entries must be complete.
• All films must be in English or subtitled. Selected films that are not in English must have embedded subtitles.
• Subtitles or closed captioning is required for all films.
• No physical copies - all films must be provided in high res digital format.
• Directors of student films must have been enrolled in school at some time during the 12 months previous to the festival.
• We reserve the right to screen accepted films at events throughout the year.

◆ By submitting, filmmakers agree that they own all necessary rights (including music) for their work to be screened publicly. ◆
19 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Philip Kral

    This is a fairly new festival that is getting better and better. Great films, screened with quality projection and sound. There's plenty of time to mingle and network. I've been trying to go every year.

    January 2026
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  • Dien Vo

    Very warm, friendly, and supportive community. Thankful for the work they do to highlight and celebrate local and regional work.

    November 2025
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  • David J. Curtis

    It was such an honor to have a film accepted to Access Film Festival! I loved how nice and personable the folks and the community of filmmakers were! I will definitely be attending next year whether or not we have a film to submit! A great little film festival in it's 2nd year! Don't miss it!

    November 2025
    Helpful
  • ROBERT LANCIANI

    Wow !!! Great festival. Well run and organized. Loved the selection of films. Q+A sessions well run and informative. Will definitely be back !!! Nice job Diana !!!

    November 2025
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  • Jesse Womack

    I couldn't attend this one, but communication was great!
    Thanks for selecting my silly little film 'The Litterbug' and nominating it for some awards

    November 2025
    Helpful