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 in 2021 we have decided to pivot and will be programming selected submissions thematically. All films are still selected through review and come via submissions. This is a switch from extensive to intensive (fewer films and much, much more attention to each film and filmmaker):
The 2022 festival will screen 45-60 films (including shorts) over 5 days 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 celebration of independent filmmaking. Like previous festivals, we remain dedicated to selecting films through the submissions process and continue to be an essentially volunteer-run festival. All submissions fees support festival programming.
The 2022 festival will include some online activities and discussions in addition to screenings in Washington, DC. Acceptance into DCIFF 2022 assumes your attendance and active involvement in the festival experience.
Student films are only a submission category: there is no programming section dedicated to student films except high school films. The high school festival will be held the weekend beWe only accept high school submissions in the student category.
We will have awards for the 2022 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.