The Central Michigan International Film Festival is designed to broaden the range of films available for public screenings in mid-Michigan and on the Central Michigan University campus. Independent, international, and locally produced films are the focus of the festival. Both shorts and feature length films are exhibited. CMIFF loves to highlight underrepresented filmmakers and first-time filmmakers.

CMIFF recognizes filmmakers with Jury Awards and Audience Awards. At this time, there is no money attached to those awards...just recognition.

All rights must be held by the person making the submission and/or documentation must be provided that the copyright holder has permitted the film to be shown at the festival.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Jorge Morais

    I had a truly positive experience with the Central Michigan International Film Festival.
    Being selected for such a respected and established festival was an honor, and I am sincerely grateful to have had my animated short film In Half included in the program. Even though I was unable to attend in person, I felt a strong sense of connection to the festival and its community.
    The festival stands out for its commitment to showcasing diverse and meaningful cinema, offering a valuable platform for filmmakers from different backgrounds. I especially appreciated the professionalism of the organization and the care with which the selected works were presented.
    Overall, it was a very rewarding experience, and I highly value the opportunity to have been part of this festival. I would strongly recommend it to filmmakers who are looking for a well-curated and respected cinematic environment in which to share their work.

    March 2026
  • Aaron Garcia

    Lucky to have my short film "Nightjar" get to screen for audiences there. I was unable to attend but I followed them on Instagram and it seemed like a great festival. They always kept me in touch via email and screened some great films.

    March 2026
  • Travis DuBridge

    Was really fun to attend. They had a great set of films to showcase and there was lots of enthusiasm for the filmmakers! So fun!

    February 2026
  • CMIFF did a great job exhibiting our film. Everyone was kind and professional and the video and sound quality were on point. It was so great to have a meet-and-greet with food and drinks after the screening so we could connect with other filmmakers. I definitely look forward to going back next year.

    May 2025
  • JO JO

    Central Michigan International Film Festival, That's great, that's great!

    May 2025