DCIFF is the oldest independent film festival in Washington DC and has a storied history of presenting extraordinary films. We have showcased cutting edge features, animation, experimental films, shorts, and documentaries on every subject, from every country, and with every budget and subject imaginable. To date, we have not been a curated film festival, but this year we have decided to pivot. DCIFF will be programmed in all categories based on two themes: 1) science fiction/imaginative landscapes/creative presentations of reality and 2) emotionality - how film stimulates emotions and reaction. We call this: Filmscapes, Futures and Feelings.
Along with this switch from extensive (lots of films and lots of filmmakers) to intensive (fewer films and much, much more attention to each film and filmmaker), we cannot yet say what our venues will be or if there will be a commercial-level theater for screening. For 2021, we will be using a range of smaller venues and we will do out utmost to assure high quality projection and sound for filmmakers.
The 2021 festival follows a new format: 20-25 films (including shorts) in 10 days, not including the high school film competition, with robust filmmaker-centered programming around each selected film that allows for discussion, learning and celebration with small groups of audiences and several screenings. We will work closely with selected filmmakers to craft thoughtful, seminar-type programming around their film’s presentation. DCIFF brings together passionate artists, filmmakers, critics, curators, and film enthusiasts for a ten-day celebration of independent filmmaking. Like previous festivals, we remain dedicated to selecting films through the submissions process and continue to be a volunteer-run festival. All submissions fees support festival programming.
Due to the ongoing pandemic, the 2021 festival will likely follow a hybrid format. We expect to offer small in-person screenings in Washington, DC, but also explore streaming and live feed options as needed. We expect online screenings to be integrated with in-person events. We will do our best to get all filmmakers to DC for the festival and ask you to understand that acceptance into the festival this year really does assume your attendance and/or active involvement. The intention is that each film or group of short films will be screened several times over 2 days and have at least 2 seminar-style associated activities. Sorry, but under the circumstances we are not accepting web series submissions for the 2021 festival. We only accept high school submissions in the student category.
We will have awards for the 2021 festival but are currently reevaluating our awards structure. Because of the smaller group of selected films, we are working on how best to recognize everyone. We expect to have three best film awards and then awards for best directing, writing, cinematography, editing, effects and sound. The high school film competition awards are a separate category of 1st, 2nd and 3rd places.
