Welcome to the Glendale International Film Festival (GIFF), a premier event celebrating the art of filmmaking and screenwriting in the heart of the entertainment capital of the world! Based in Glendale, CA - the 4th largest city in Los Angeles, just minutes from Hollywood - GIFF provides a welcoming environment and artist-friendly platform for local-to-global creatives to showcase their talents within a vibrant community dedicated to artistic excellence and centered around building connections and fostering collaboration.
Each year, GIFF brings together diverse voices from around the globe, championing independent filmmakers and storytellers who push the boundaries of cinema. The six-day 2025 edition will take place in person from Thursday, September 25-Tuesday, September 30, 2025. From the golden hour rooftop Opening Night Party to feting the best of the fest on Awards Night, the fun-filled event will feature screenings at the iconic Laemmle Theatres, special events, Q&As, panel discussions, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
The Glendale International Film Festival is presented by Glendale Arts, the city's premier arts organization, an award-winning non-profit dedicated to delivering dynamic, multidisciplinary arts and entertainment programming and generating opportunities to connect artists and audiences year-round.
We invite filmmakers and screenwriters from all around the world to submit your projects today and become part of the GIFF legacy. We look forward to seeing you in September!
PLEASE DO NOT REQUEST FEE WAIVERS. WE CANNOT GRANT WAIVERS AT THIS TIME.
BEFORE YOU SUBMIT:
1. The Glendale International Film Festival screens on DCP (Digital Cinema Package). Please do not submit to GIFF if you cannot provide the Festival with a DCP or convert through SimpleDCP.
2. Studios and Sales Agents: Please do not submit to GIFF if you require a fee for screening at the festival.
Awards Night for GIFF 2025 will be held on Monday, September 29. Awards will be given in the following categories (subject to change based on submitted and selected projects):
Best Feature
Best Horror/Thriller Feature
Best Documentary Feature
Best Drama Short
Best Comedy Short
Best Dramedy Short
Best Documentary Short
Best Short Short
Best Variety Musical Short
Best Student Film
Best Feature Screenplay
Best Short Screenplay
Best Student Animation Short
Best Student Screenplay
Velvet Award - Outstanding Female Filmmaker (Writer/Producer/Director)