WELCOME TO DEAD CITY…

We showcase independent, gritty films from filmmakers from Dead Cities for an opportunity to show off their hard work.

Hosted in the historic Fairborn Phoenix in Fairborn Ohio, we pull together resources, talented people who love film, music and the arts to throw a very cool party. The theater as well as this festival is co-owned and co-operated by a filmmaker.

Reach out to contact@fairbornphoenix.com for any questions.

Best Of Dead City Prize: Dead City Skull Trophy & Midwest $1000 coupon grip & gear
More to come!
Spirit of the Dead: Dead City trophy & a beer **
Third Place : A Beer and Dead City trophy **

**if you're under 21 we'll figure something out

1. The film must be under 20 minutes.
2. Films that are from directors from "Dead Cities" will have an advantage over films that come from NY or LA.

Voting:

Films are judged based on the total points awarded by the judges and the audience votes.

The Best Of Award is the total points awarded by the judges and the audience votes, which is the highest overall.

The Audience Award is only based on the audience votes.

Spirit of the Dead has lower judge points but a higher audience vote.

There are no Sweeps.

Be Cool.

*It’s okay if you don’t think you’re cool. You made a film, so you’re pretty cool.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Shalyn Grow

    Honored that "Me and My Shadow" was a Finalist for the first ever Dead City Film Fest! Love to see a festival that emphasizes small towns (or dead cities) and gives them the air time they deserve. A meaningful and worthwhile mission, very grateful to be included in the stellar lineup. Thank you Dead City!

    November 2023