Founded in 2009 by a visionary Black female filmmaker, the DMV International Film Festival (DMViFF) has become a beacon for cinematic talent in the DC, Maryland, Virginia area, and beyond. Originally created as a space for filmmakers to network and showcase their projects, DMViFF has grown into an influential festival with a mission to sustainably develop, unite, and discover cinematic talents.

DMViFF offers unparalleled opportunities for filmmakers by providing resources and exposure to emerging technologies, media, and community initiatives. The festival fosters inclusiveness, welcoming residents and filmmakers alike to participate in its vibrant and enriching environment.

Submit your project to DMViFF and join a community dedicated to advancing the art of cinema, gaining access to potential opportunities in technology, media, and more. Embrace the chance to connect with fellow creatives and industry professionals at one of the most dynamic film festivals around.

Visit http://www.DMViFF.org for submission details and to learn more about this exciting festival.

Awards & Prizes

Combined cash and prizes are given for awards in the following categories:

Best Narrative Feature
Best Documentary Feature
Best Narrative Short
Best Documentary Short
Best Animated Short (Award Plaque)

DMVIFF juries are composed of filmmakers, film critics, and industry figures.

Films competing in juried categories are chosen solely at the discretion of the DMVIFF programming team. Acceptance to the festival does not guarantee placement in the competition. Films are not programmed in or out of competition, as competition status is determined once the full program has been locked.

All official selections that meet the guidelines will be eligible for the Festival.

Rules & Terms

FILM SUBMISSIONS FAQs

Have questions not covered here or in our FilmFreeway Rules & Terms? Email us at submit@DMViFF.org.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

How do I submit?
Submit via FilmFreeway by creating an account and project. Details: filmfreeway.com/help. Email submissions are not accepted.

Can I submit via paper?
No.

Can I submit films on behalf of others?
No, direct contact with project creators is required for proper documentation.

Incomplete submissions by the final deadline will be disqualified without fee refund.

Does early submission make a difference?
Early submission saves on fees but does not affect acceptance chances.

What are submission fees?
View fees on our FilmFreeway page under Categories & Fees.

Can I get a waiver?
Rarely granted; exceptions for DMViFF alumni or filmmakers from sanctioned countries. Email us to discuss.

Submission fees do not guarantee acceptance but support prizes, travel, and staff.

QUESTIONS ABOUT SUBMITTING

What's required for film submission?
Each submission needs a paid fee and playable screener.

How do I confirm submission receipt?
Check your FilmFreeway account's Submissions tab.

Online screeners only; DVDs/Blu-Rays not accepted.

How are VR films reviewed?
360° videos need a private screener or downloadable link. Tethered/Quest VR needs a full video recording.

Accept rough cuts/WIPs?
Yes, label clearly, noting incomplete elements.

Updated film versions accepted?
Replace screener on FilmFreeway; updates not accepted after final deadline.

How many films can I submit?
No limit, but each needs a separate fee.

When will I know the decision?
Notifications are typically sent out in late summer.

How will I be notified?
By email; ensure it's active. Add our addresses to your contacts to avoid spam.

QUESTIONS ABOUT DMViFF’S PROGRAMMING

What genres do you accept?
All genres are welcome!

What kind of films do you play?
We accept all types of films.

Can you review my film before submission?
We only review officially submitted films.

Any runtime limitations?
No, but shorter films are preferred.

Do you consider films from other categories?
Each category submission stands alone.

Any rating restrictions?
No, all content types accepted.

Preference for local or connected films?
We advocate local talent but accept submissions globally.

Discounts for student work?
Yes, for current students.

Do you have competition sections?
Yes, but acceptance does not guarantee competition placement.

Do you screen films out of competition?
Yes, most films.

How do you program shorts?
Thematically, except for select programs like comedy shorts.

Do you accept international films?
Yes, we love them!

Do you prioritize films with celebrities?
No preference.

Have you screened films available online?
Case-by-case; generally prioritize unreleased films.

QUESTIONS ABOUT SCREENING/JUDGING

Who are your screeners?
Academics, filmmakers, DMViFF alums, and more.

Can submitters be screeners?
Yes, but not for the same year.

How are films scored?
Multiple screeners assess based on various criteria and internal guidelines.

Can I get updates on my film?
No, please avoid inquiries; our focus is on year-round activities.

Who makes final selections?
The Programming Department.

For more queries, email submit@DMViFF.org. Phone inquiries are not accepted.

8 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Brandon Wilkerson

    If there isn’t gonna be a festival for 2025 I think we all deserve a refund, I understand dude got deported but there are others that helped run the festival right?

    January 2026
    Helpful
  • Aryaman Kantawala

    This festival is a scam, BE WARY. I submitted my work and got multiple emails about DMViFF planning a festival for this, but was mainly ignored whenever I emailed asking questions. The week of the festival, I received word that the festival would be "postponed", it's been months and there's been no further communication about when the new dates will be. Biggest waste of money I've spent..is this festival even real?

    December 2025
    Helpful
  • Richard Brown

    Terrific festival. Will definitely submit again in the future.

    November 2024
    Helpful
  • Ar’Darius Stewart

    Small but mighty is what I would call this festival! I informed the Festival Director a couple of days past the date specified but still she worked with me and made sure that our film was screened which I'm really grateful for as I had family and friends in attendance. This was my first true experience at attending a film festival and I can say that I am happy that this was my first experience. The team greeted us with loving hugs and welcoming smiles. I'm proud of the DMViFF Team and I wish longevity over them as they continue to provide this festival for all storytellers across the world. I'm proud to be DMViFF alum and look forward to submitting my future projects.

    June 2024
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you very much! Great screening your film!

  • Jameil Player

    I visited DMViFF for the first time in 2023. They had an excellent array of films and I decided that I would submit to them the following year. I submitted and luckily my film was chosen. The following year (2024) they have significantly increased the venue size from last year. I really loved the seating and aisle space of the theater. DMViFF again had an excellent array of films and what I liked the most is the passion of festival director. She was very passionate about all the films in selected and very motivational and helpful. All of her staff was very pleasant, helpful and encouraging. It definitely felt good seeing our poster poster in the theater. I hope to be a part of this festival next year.

    June 2024
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    It was great having you! Thank you for your continued support!