“In Our Backyard” - A Festival Showcasing the Intersection of Community and Creativity

Join us in celebrating community, family, and artistic expression through film as we bring forward stories that resonate within our diverse cultures and backyards.

Compton Artists Alliance (CAA) and Help Us Help Wash (HUHW), both 501(c)(3) organizations, are proud to present In Our Backyard: Film Fest. Our goal is to create a platform for new stories in both live-action and animated short films. This collaborative festival sets a precedent for showcasing independent artists and emerging talent from Compton, California, and beyond. While CAA held its first virtual film festival in 2020, this marks our first in-person collaboration with HUHW, building a foundation for longevity within the film festival circuit.

Your participation in In Our Backyard supports CAA and HUHW’s mission to spotlight local talent, strengthening the art community in Compton. Together, we’re inspiring the next generation of writers, filmmakers, actors, and producers, creating a legacy for future storytellers.

Awards & Prizes

Awards for Best Film in each category will include a medal, certificate, and additional prizes such as film equipment or gift cards for film supplies.

Rules & Terms

Film Festival Rules:

All films must be 30 minutes or less, except for entries in the Long Short Film category. Films must align with one of the designated categories below:
• Animation Short Film (30 mins or less)
• Action Short Film (30 mins or less)
• Horror Short Film (30 mins or less)
• Narrative Short Film (30 mins or less)
• Music Video Short Film (30 mins or less)
• Long Short Film (45 mins to 60 mins)
• Super Short Film (Under 5 mins)
• Ultra Short Film (Under 60 seconds)
• Sci-Fi Short Film (30 mins or less)
• Experimental Short Film (30 mins or less)

All films will be reviewed by our board. Any submissions containing hate, discrimination, lewdness, vulgarity, explicit or crude violence, pornography, or excessive negative imagery may be disqualified. If your film is disqualified, you will be notified by email with an explanation. The board holds the right to disqualify entries at its’ own discretion.