Albany (short and really short) International FilmFest, now in our 9th year, is a juried short film festival that takes place annually in Albany, California, a small city in the San Francisco Bay Area. We screen an eclectic mix of drama, comedy, documentary, and animation from emerging and established Bay Area, national, and global filmmakers. Our warm, friendly small-town vibe encourages filmmakers and audience members to connect and engage. Filmmakers consistently praise Albany FilmFest: "One of the best festival experiences I have had!" ... "Of all the festivals we attended this year, Albany FilmFest was the most personable and enjoyable." ... "Great party and opportunities to connect with other filmmakers!"
* We value thought-provoking films on a rich variety of topics—environmental and social issues, arts and music, multicultural voices, communities in transition, and more.
* Cash awards, winners selected by a jury of film industry professionals.
* Popular spotlight programs include women filmmakers and films on environmental topics.
* We support young filmmakers, and feature two youth filmmaker categories. Proceeds from AFF help support youth media education in Albany.
Albany FilmFest screens at Landmark's deco-era Albany Twin Theatre in Albany's Solano Avenue Business District, home to friendly businesses, award-winning restaurants, and both funky and upscale bars. We're right next door to Berkeley, directly across from the Golden Gate Bridge, and a short drive from the Wine Country. Our ongoing mission is to build community, communicate across diverse borders, and encourage free creative expression and communication.
AFF is a volunteer project of the City of Albany’s Community Media Access Committee in conjunction with the City of Albany and cable channel KALB. Albany FilmFest works to encourage creative storytelling through filmmaking in our community, and we share our films on KALB, both on cable television and streaming online.
Amusing trophies! Cash prizes!
Narrative Short = $250
Documentary Short = $250
Animated Short = $250
Tiny Movie = $250
My Own Private Albany = $250
Best in Show winner = $250
Youth 6-12 = $100 or equivalent in merchandise
Youth 13-17 = $100 or equivalent in merchandise
Please note: Only filmmakers with valid US tax ID are eligible for cash prizes.
ENTRY FEE WAIVERS
MADEINALBANY: Filmmakers whose films have 50% or more of the footage shot in Albany, California, are eligible for a 50% submission fee reduction.
AFFFF50: Filmmakers whose films were accepted and shown at previous Albany FilmFest screenings are eligible for a 50% submission fee reduction for new films.
AFFSTUDENT: $10 discount on submission fees for college/film school students. MUST provide proof (valid current student ID)
No other waivers or exceptions will be granted.