The CAPITAL CITY FILM FESTIVAL's (CCFF) mission is to celebrate artists from around the world by curating outstanding multimedia experiences for our community. Our festival is a 10-day party with opportunities to connect with artists from around the world *and* Michigan filmmaking legends at mixers and Q&As throughout. We showcase an eclectic mix of traditional and experimental films, telling stories ranging from the dramatic to the fantastic. Live musical performances, interactive media, and many other art forms are painted throughout our program. Every year, the Capital City Film Festival creates memorable and enriching experiences for our audiences, artists, and volunteers.

The 14th annual CCFF takes place April 2-12, 2025 in several venues across Lansing, MI and kicks off with a dynamic Red Carpet Premiere Party. Come be part of the Midwest's best!

*Oh yea - we're on that hotlist: "25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World": https://www.moviemaker.com/the-25-coolest-film-festivals-in-the-world-2018/9/
*Our website: www.capitalcityfilmfest.com
*2024 CCFF Recap: https://vimeo.com/1000916618
*2024 CCFF Sizzle: https://vimeo.com/924633746

We offer juried prizes for the top selection in three categories:
*Best Narrative Feature
*Best Documentary Feature
*Best Short Film

The Fortnight Film Contest gives Michigan-based teams two weeks to create an original short film, 10 minutes or less. We play the top films during a screening at the festival and give away $5,000+ in cash prizes. A "don't miss" event at the Capital City Film Festival!

Please DO NOT submit your film in the Narrative Feature, Documentary Feature or Non-student Short categories if it is a student-produced work. Please see the Student submission category for full guidelines.

-Works in progress are not accepted.
-Submissions must have been produced since January 2023 and be a mid-Michigan area premiere (films that are Michigan-wide premieres may be preferred.)
-Submissions received without the proper entry fee will not be considered.
-Entries must be in English or subtitled in English.
-See submission category guidelines for details on genre and length requirements for submission.

Other Details:
-Screening copies of selected films (digital files, Blu-Rays or DVDs) MUST be received at least 4 weeks prior to the festival, which begins April 2, 2025.

Submitting this project means I have read all of the Capital City Film Festival (CCFF) rules. I understand and have complied with these rules.

I warrant the submission of my original work and there are no disputes regarding the ownership of the submission. I also warrant the submitted material does not defame or invade the rights of any person living or dead and I fully indemnify CCFF against any claim made for such violations of law.

To the best of my knowledge, all of the statements herein are true and correct.

I understand that failure to adhere to CCFF's rules will result in disqualification and no refunds of any kind will be made.

I agree to hold CCFF harmless from and defend them against all claims, demands, losses, damages, judgments, liabilities, and expenses (including attorney’s fees) arising out of or in connection with any and all claims of third parties, whether or not groundless, based on any film submitted to CCFF. I understand that a high quality festival screening copy of my film must be provided no later than 4 weeks prior to April 2, 2025.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Dan Edwards

    The Capital City Film Festival had an exceptional lineup of films, and we were proud to be included. Our screening was well attended and everyone who worked for the festival was friendly and helpful. This is a really high-quality festival and I recommend filmmakers submit their films and attend, if accepted, as I met some great people here.

    June 2024
  • Kiarash Dadgar

    What a remarkable journey! 'The Steak' has been bestowed with the Best Short Film award at the Capital City Film Festival. I'd like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the festival organizers and jury for this prestigious accolade. Huge thanks!

    May 2024
  • I can't say enough great things about this festival! I have already recommended it to so many of my filmmaker friends. The venue, the aesthetic, the hospitality, the people, I could go on! It was all top notch. Thank you so much for including my film "Give Us A Smile" in your festival & for including us in the Q&A! 10/10.

    May 2024
  • It was such a privilege to participate in this incredible festival. Thank you for including my work.

    April 2024
  • Jon Gollner

    Had a great time at the Capital City Film Festival, and hope to attend many more! The staff were so kind, the venues were unique and had excellent sound and projection, and the party was a good time!

    April 2024