Longest running festival of its kind, the Christian Youth Film Festival encourages young people to create excellent movies integrating the Christian faith. The gala screening includes young filmmakers all dressed up, arriving in limos, and walking the red carpet. Exclusive VIP dinner is a highlight for young producers. Industry professionals serve as judges both before and during the screening. Past celebrities have included: Dean Batali, Karen Covell, Jim Schmidt, Jenn Gotzon, Bobby Downes, Coleman Luck, Chuck Konzleman, Cary Solomon, Mitchell Callisch, Brenda Lorena Garcia, Jim Covell, Daniel Florin, and many others.

Awards & Prizes

"Best of..." Trophies; such as "Best Actor", "Best Screenplay", "Best Application of Scripture", "Best Cinematography", "Best Production Value", "Best Director", and more.

Giant Checks (cash)
* Best of College Division: approximately $623
* Best of High School Division: nearly $615
* Best of Junior High/Middle School: about $505

Additional prizes may be awarded; such as scholarships, free acting lessons, "on set" opportunities, free event registrations, etc...
Each entry receives written critique from judges, two really cool lanyards, and two awesome VIP all-access passes including all seminars, meals, and mixers with judges, directors, and producers. (value over $146.89)

Rules & Terms

1. The contest is open to youth ages 12-24, with complete disregard to geographical location, race, hair, religion, creed, sex, ancestry, disabilities, DNA, or military service.
2. All movies must have begun principle production after March 5, 2023. Writing and pre-production may be earlier.
3. Primary positions for talent and crew must be within the specified age bracket. Supporting roles may be from outside the age brackets but not eligible for award consideration.
4. Minimal adult help is allowed and encouraged. This means adults may advise or demonstrate with the goal of teaching. Adults may drive, help secure equipment and locations, or provide the pizza. Adults should strive to help kids be better filmmakers, learn new skills, and develop hidden talents.
5. Movies must be wholesome and compatible with a Biblical Christian worldview. Content must also be age-appropriate and family friendly for screening to younger audiences.
6. All music copyright, talent, and location releases must be uploaded with entry.
7. Running time is limited to a maximum of 11 minutes including credits and titles.
8. Accurate and complete credits are required.

24 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Isabelle Walker

    This festival was amazing! I flew in from Kansas to attend and their hospitality and communication was incredible. It was amazing to meet other youth who are interested in filmmaking. I made some connections there that have really helped. I highly recommend submitting to their festival and attending. You won't regret it!

    April 2023
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  • Athena Pistis

    Although I wasn’t able to attend the festival in-person, I felt welcomed by the director in our email communications. He was very quick to answer any questions I had and was encouraging of me as a young Christian filmmaker. Very impressed with the professionalism of this festival and was honored to receive two awards for my short film. I am looking forward to entering again in the near future!

    March 2023
    Helpful
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you for the very kind review! It was a privilege to screen your delightful movie. Keep up the good work!

  • Amia Datts-Voluntad

    CYFF is an amazing festival! Both of my films Silence and The Reconnection were selected to be a part. As I was traveling from Hawaii to attend, there were a lot of logistics involved. The communication and hospitality was incredible, and every question I had was answered within a few days. It was such an amazing to be able to network with other young filmmakers who are just as passionate as I am about both God and filmmaking. Overall, 5 stars. I recommend this festival to any young filmmakers who are serious about their craft.

    March 2023
    Helpful
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    Response from festival:

    Thanks Amia!
    Also, I received your application for the Mentor Movie Project. We'll let you know when we're ready.
    God bless you!

  • Asher Anantham

    Thank you for selecting "Vaping: A Youth Crisis"!

    March 2023
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    Response from festival:

    Thanks Asher! Keep up the good work!

  • Bethany Reinstedt

    The CYFF is an incredible opportunity to meet people who can help you and who truly care about your success. It's largely because of the CYFS that I am pursuing a career in filmmaking.

    March 2022
    Helpful