What Sets the DaVinci International Film Festival (DIFF) Apart?

Ever wonder what makes one film festival stand out from the rest? At the DaVinci International Film Festival (DIFF), our identity begins with our namesake. Just as Leonardo da Vinci masterfully told stories through his art and inventions, blending curiosity with bold vision, we celebrate independent filmmakers who embody this spirit. We are a boutique festival dedicated to those who push creative boundaries and captivate audiences with fresh, compelling storytelling.

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Our Distinctive Approach

Here's what makes DIFF truly different:

Intimacy Meets Impact: While we may be a newer presence, our impact is significant. Our meticulously selected Official Selections are screened alongside other exceptional works at the legendary Grove in Los Angeles. We cultivate an intimate community, building personal connections with our filmmakers and screenwriters to provide a supportive and enriching experience throughout their creative journey.

Visionary Guidance: Leading with Passion: DIFF's leadership team is a powerhouse of talent and dedication. Comprised of Emmy winners, a BAFTA recipient, a Sundance co-founder, and award-winning WGA, DGA, and SAG professionals, their collective passion and expertise are channeled into fostering meaningful connections with emerging filmmakers and writers.

Leo Legacy: Our prestigious Leo Awards honor excellence across narrative, documentary, animation, and screenwriting. We're also committed to nurturing future storytellers through the free-to-enter Junior Leo® program for students and DIFF's innovative GENIUS category for ultra-short films. Share your voice and become part of the DIFF family!

The Leo Award: A Symbol of Cinematic Achievement: Just as we meticulously curate our films and brand, the Leo Award itself embodies excellence. This custom-designed, 5-pound museum-grade bust of Leonardo da Vinci is a unique trophy presented to the Best of Fest winners in our signature categories. For DIFF's 6th Edition, a special Leo Award was bestowed upon Michael J. Fox as our inaugural Visionary Award recipient. More than just a statue, the Leo Award is a powerful recognition of exceptional filmmaking and the immense hard work behind it.

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Experience DIFF

When you participate in DIFF, you gain:

- Official Selections: Each year, we handpick the finest independent films (narrative features & shorts, documentaries, animation, and screenplays) to compete for our Leo Award at the iconic AMC Theaters at The Grove in Los Angeles.

Panels & Events: Gain invaluable insights from industry titans at DIFF's exclusive events. Past panels have included FilmAfrica, FilmAsia, Score & More, DaVinci LaunchPad, and The Writers' Corner.

Recognition: Official Selections vie for the coveted Leo Award, Audience Award (GENIUS category), and Jr. Leo Award. Celebrate your achievements at a red-carpet ceremony and after-party.

At DIFF, we strive to be your creative home—a supportive film family and community that understands your options and is thrilled you're considering us. Thank you.

Awards & Prizes

- LEO AWARD
- VISIONARY AWARD
- AUDIENCE AWARD (GENiUS)
- JR. LEO AWARD (Jr. Leo Program)
- SPONSORS PRIZES

Rules & Terms

Entrants must fully comply with these Entry Rules & Regulations, including deadlines, film length, entry material(s), and accepting terms prior to submission, as well as those listed below. For DIFF Storyline (screenwriting) competition, please visit storylinefestival.com for a full list of rules and qualifications:

1. All non-English speaking films must be presented in their original version with English subtitles.
2. Short Film Entries should not exceed 40 minutes in duration including titles and credits.
3. Films previously entered into DIFF are not eligible for re-entry in subsequent years.
4. All submissions are screened and evaluated by the DIFF Jury and Selection Committee, appointed by the Executive Director. Their reports are final and confidential. Long and short format films that are received by DIFF and given Official Selection status, will be screened at our Live Event Showcase Event.
5. In the event of a film is withdrawn, DIFF will not refund or return any materials.
6. ONE ENTRY FEE PER CATEGORY. The same film can be entered into more and one category, but each category requires a separate entry fee. If the filmmaker chooses to enter more than one category with the same film, please add an incremental numerical addendum in brackets after the title; i.e. "Film Title" (1), "Film Title" (2), etc. as the system requires this differentiation in the case of multiple entries with the same title.
7. Student filmmakers with valid student ID may compete in DIFF's FREE-TO-ENTER Jr. Leo Awards program. High School, College, University, and Trade (Vocational) are eligible. ID's will be verified with institutions. Learn more at https://davincifilmfestival.com/junior-leo-program/
8. All entries must be submitted via the FilmFreeway.com portal. Please DO NOT send us any material unless requested.
9. Unfortunately, we DO NOT accept works in progress at this time.
10. DIFF Storyline (screenwriting) competition series are responsible for reviewing eligibility and rules at storylinefestival.com prior to submission.
11. DIFF DOES NOT OFFER ANY WAIVERS OR REFUNDS.
12. DIFF requires DCP film file for live event screening.

STORYLINE: AI-Generated Scripts Prohibited

Please note: Submissions that are wholly or partially generated by artificial intelligence (AI) will be disqualified. This includes scripts written or edited with the assistance of AI tools.

We employ advanced techniques to detect AI-generated content. By submitting your script, you affirm that it is your original work and does not utilize AI in any form. Questions? info@storylinefestival.com
58 Reviews
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  • Nicolas Walker

    Honored to have received Semi-finalist status for the Script - Journal of My Other Self! Of all the festivals I've entered I was most pleased to achieve some recognition from DIFF. Thanks, DaVinci!

    March 2024
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  • Sara Ko

    Participating in the DaVinci International Film Festival was an incredible experience from start to finish. The communication was spot on—timely and professional, showing genuine care for filmmakers and their films.

    The festival programmers clearly have a passion for cinema, crafting a lineup that truly stands out. Working with Team Diff was a pleasure; their support and warmth made the whole journey unforgettable.

    Being featured alongside such remarkable works was humbling. I can't wait for the chance to participate again, hopefully in person. The entire process, from start to finish, was both enjoyable and highly professional, thanks to their team.

    March 2024
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  • Ron Placone

    Excellent Festival and was proud to be a part of it. Kind and welcoming hosts, wonderful panels, productive and fun networking events. Highly recommend!

    March 2024
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  • Katherine Schimmel

    Wonderful festival with a highly professional, passionate and dedicated team. Many thanks for all and congratulations to all participants!

    March 2024
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  • Carolina Garrido

    The 2024 DaVinci International Film Festival impressed with its brilliant display of high-quality films and its flawless online presentation. The diversity of genres, the quality of the works showcased, and the seamless online experience make this festival a cinematic celebration that transcends borders. DaVinci 2024 demonstrates how a passion for film can unite people from around the world, even in the digital space.

    March 2024
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