The 17th Annual Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is now open for submissions, presenting filmmakers with a remarkable chance to connect with industry professionals, present their work to a broader audience, be a part of a large community of filmmakers, gain significant press exposure, and compete for awards that could open new avenues in their careers.

BFF has long been a platform for over a thousand filmmakers worldwide, dedicated to showcasing a variety of voices and narratives in independent cinema. It's a place for building lasting relationships, where filmmakers from all backgrounds, whether directors, producers, actors, or other roles, can enhance their careers. Our festival is a celebration of the diversity and innovation in independent film. Participants not only gain visibility for their work but also networking opportunities, leading to potential collaborations.

We welcome filmmakers of every role and background to join us. By submitting your film to BFF, you're taking a step towards finding your audience and advancing in the world of filmmaking.

Discount Eligibility:
Discounts are available for students, previous participants of the Bushwick Film Festival (BFF Alumni), productions filmed in Bushwick, and filmmakers residing in Bushwick. If you qualify for a discount, please complete our Discount Form.

For any questions or additional information, please contact us at info@bushwickfilmfestival.com. We are ready to assist you.

About the Bushwick Film Festival (BFF):
For 17 years, the Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) has established itself as an influential hub for independent film and a launchpad for emerging talent. We have provided a stage for over 1,000 filmmakers from more than 60 countries, fostering a diverse and welcoming environment for a wide array of narratives.

Located in the dynamic neighborhood of Bushwick, BFF has evolved into a prestigious five-day event, featuring a rich lineup of film screenings, panel discussions, special events, and networking opportunities, as well as a movie industry conference. Our festival is renowned for cultivating a supportive atmosphere that champions creativity, individuality, and the exchange of ideas.

Our contributions to the cultural, artistic, and economic enrichment of Brooklyn have garnered recognition, including acknowledgments from elected officials. This significant achievement has been made possible through the sustained support of our sponsors and partners over the years, including notable organizations like Spectrum/Charter Communications, Ovation TV, Delta Airlines, Popsugar, Johnny Walker, Caress, B&H Photo, Canon, Master Card, Hello Alice, IFundWomen, and a range of local organizations. Their support has been essential to our success, playing a key role in both expanding our public offerings and establishing impactful youth filmmaking programs for underrepresented storytellers.

The continued growth and success of BFF are a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, Kweighbaye Kotee. As a passionate filmmaker, producer, and cinema lover, Kotee's commitment to storytelling, collaboration, and inclusivity is integral to the festival's enduring appeal and influence. Additionally, over our 17-year history, the invaluable contributions of nearly 200 volunteers, about 50 interns, and roughly 10 staff members have been essential to our success. Their collective efforts and unwavering dedication have been key in shaping the festival's journey and achievements, highlighting the strength of teamwork and community engagement.

Follow these links to get a full picture of BFF

WATCH—2023 Opening Night at Brooklyn Borough Hall: https://bit.ly/47kbYuo

READ—Press and News about the BFF: https://bit.ly/47jSyp1

VIEW—2023 Filmmaker Year Book: https://bit.ly/2023Filmmakers

VIEW—Opening Night Photo Booth: https://bit.ly/3MzaiW9

READ—Snapshot of the 16th Annual BFF: https://bit.ly/3R7TcAa

See what the media is saying about BFF!

“BFF gives, directors, cinematographers, and actors from around the world a platform to shine On" – PopSugar

“This year’s festival features more than 135 indie features from 27 countries. While it’s long presented such awards as Best Feature (Narrative & Documentary), Best Short (Narrative & Documentary), and Best Series, it will now also welcome screenplays into the competition.” – Deadline

“The Bushwick Film Festival shines a light on indie filmmakers and diversity in the film industry.”– NBC

“This is the moment that Brooklyn film buffs have been waiting for.” – News 12

"The Bushwick Film Festival is [...] working to shine a light on indie filmmakers and diversity in the film industry." - NBC / Positively Black

“An opportunity to see amazing films that you won’t find in regular U.S. cinemas. They are true gems!” - Indiewire

“A cultural institution in the Bushwick Art Scene.” - Times-News Weekly

“Get to know NYC’s next filmmaking generation at the Bushwick Film Festival.” - Tribeca Film

“In one of the premier arts communities of Brooklyn, the Bushwick Film Festival provides a unique opportunity to explore diverse New York voices alongside those from abroad, to both celebrate the beauty, the absurdity, and even the difficulty of life while pushing to increase our awareness and inclusion of world-views outside our own.” -Bklyner

“No one does it better here in the borough of Brooklyn.” - Eric L. Adams, Mayor of New York City

Awards & Prizes

The Bushwick Film Festival presents awards in the following categories:
Best Narrative Feature
Best Documentary Feature
Best Short Film Narrative
Best Short Film Doc
Best Series
Best Screenplay
Best NFT
Best Actor / Outstanding Performance
Special Jury Prizes in all categories
Honorable Mentions in all categories
Programmers Choice Award in all categories

Rules & Terms

Bushwick Film Festival Terms of Entry:

I, the undersigned, acknowledge and agree to the following terms and conditions:

SUBMISSIONS:
The Bushwick Film Festival accepts all forms and genres that would be deemed within a G, PG, PG-13, R, or NC-17 rating by BFF programmers. We do not accept pornographic entertainment. Entry does not guarantee acceptance into The Bushwick Film Festival.

We also accept submissions that have premiered elsewhere and that may have distribution agreements already in place. However, TV, theatrical, online video, other festival, or other distribution outlets that run concurrently or in the same month of the festival may not be eligible for screening. Rough cuts and incomplete projects are not accepted.

Multiple entries are allowed, however, a separate entry form must be submitted for each. The Bushwick Film Festival will not return or refund a submission fee after a film has been submitted.

**THE BFF SCREENS DCP FORMAT ONLY**

EXHIBITION & SCREENING:
Screenings are scheduled during the Festival at the discretion of The Bushwick Film Festival. Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the published schedule, Bushwick Film Festival reserves the right to make changes at any time for any reason. Bushwick Film Festival will not be liable for any costs claimed as a result of a schedule change. If a film is accepted into the festival and subsequently withdrawn after tickets have gone on sale, the film will incur associated costs. This policy applies to any withdrawal occurring within one month of the festival or after the film's tickets have been made available for sale. Additionally, films accepted into the festival are not permitted to be screened outside the festival venue in the Tri-State Area within the 4 weeks leading up to their official presentation at the festival.

If chosen as an official selection, Bushwick Film Festival is granted permission to exhibit the film at the 2024 (17th Annual) Bushwick Film Festival and all associated Bushwick Film Festival screenings. The location and timing of any screenings of the film shall be the sole decision of the organizers of the Film Festival. Bushwick Film Festival has the right to upload the film to the Bushwick Film Festival secure screening panel website to make submission available to Bushwick Film Festival Jury Members and to media.

Filmmakers will be solely responsible for all costs resulting from the submission of the film to the Festival including but not limited to postage or insurance of the film, and expenses of your staff or any representatives of the film.

LOSS OR DAMAGE:
Although every precaution will be taken to prevent loss or damage to materials while in the possession of the festival, The Bushwick Film Festival is not responsible should any materials be damaged while in transit to or from, or while in the possession of the Bushwick Film Festival.

ENTRY LIABILITY:
I hold The Bushwick Film Festival, its management, juries, subsidiaries, agents, sponsors, affiliates, etc. harmless from any claims of liability resulting from entry. I certify that I have full rights to the use of the music in the Production.

The producer will indemnify the organizers of the Festival against all claims, demands, costs, damages, expenses (including legal fees), proceedings, and losses resulting from the screening of the film at the Festival or from claims by any third parties.

OWNERSHIP & COPYRIGHT:
Producer/Filmmaker must own all copyrights; must be able to provide model/actor release verification if requested; must be able to provide music, product, and other copyright licensing verification if requested. The producer agrees to take on all copyright liability regarding the submitted film.

AGREEMENT:
I have read, understand, and fully comply with all submission eligibility, submission guidelines, Terms and Conditions of Entry, and Entry Eligibility requirements

To the best of my knowledge, all of the statements in my submission application are true. I understand that any failure to follow and adhere to the Rules and Regulations of the 2024 Festival will result in the disqualification of the film.
149 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Pete O'Hare

    One of the best festival experiences I've had to date! Clear and concise communication, outstanding availability and flexibility, and stellar programming! The opening and closing events were top notch, really prime networking! Highly recommended!

    November 2024
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  • Christopher Bell

    Very great fest! Worth the submission, definitely do it. A lot of love and care put into this one by the organizers.

    November 2024
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  • Tara Young

    The Bushwick Film Festival was an exceptional experience. Our film, written and shot in Brooklyn by native New Yorkers, made it all the more meaningful to have our NYC premiere at BFF. The festival was impeccably organized, welcoming, and full of incredibly talented filmmakers. Kweighbaye Kotee and her team truly know how to curate a remarkable event. It’s an honor to be a part of the BFF film family.

    November 2024
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  • Jamee Ranta

    The Bushwick Film Festival was incredible! The team was exceptionally organized, keeping clear communication on asset needs and deadlines leading up to the festival, which made everything run smoothly. But what really stood out was the festival’s warm and inviting atmosphere – and fun creative experiences. The energy was contagious. It was truly an honor to be a part of it, and I can’t wait to return for more amazing experiences!

    November 2024
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  • Frederik Ehrhardt

    Wonderful festival experience! The team genuinely cares about supporting and championing indie film, and they went the extra mile to make us feel welcome. We had a sold out screening, the programming block was beautifully curated and followed by a well-run Q&A. The festival audience was a joy to interact with as well: passionate about indie film, very knowledgeable and super supportive. In addition, there was a wide range of excellent mixers, networking events, industry luncheons, etc. We truly had a fantastic time. Huge thanks to the Bushwick Film Festival for creating such a gem of a festival.

    November 2024
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