A showcase of Massachusetts filmmaking talent—from students to professionals and everyone in between—The LAVA Film Festival spotlights local filmmakers who create films that engage with the community and are made with joy.

Awards & Prizes

TBA

Rules & Terms

Submission requirements:
• Films must be made by current residents of Massachusetts.
• We will accept films and videos of any length, any subject, any style.
• Films must be creative projects in their own right, as opposed to live events or performances filmed for documentation purposes.

By submitting your film, you agree to have your film screened at The LAVA Center, and clips posted on social media for publicity.
11 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Lynn Weissman

    The short films in the comedy block at the LAVA Film Festival were so awesome! Thanks to (and great to meet) Festival Co-Directors Wally Marzano-Lesnevich and Vanessa Query for organizing a terrific film fest! We had a great time meeting other filmmakers and being part of the filmmaker Q&A. Delicious refreshments, too, including pakoras, pizza, and homemade kombucha!

    October 2025
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you Lynn! It was awesome to have your film included, so glad you all had a good time :)

  • Off Hand Co

    I really like this festival. Everyone is very welcoming and it's a great way to know that film is alive in Massachusetts.

    April 2025
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you!!

  • Matthew Gorman

    It was a great honor to have my film showcased. Great people and location!

    October 2024
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you Matthew!!

  • Minna Abalian

    This was such an intimate but fun festival! The long drive out was worth it as the audience was so thoughtful and encouraging in their reactions to all of the films screened. It was so special to hear how my film connected with folks across various cultures and I'm so grateful for the experience!

    October 2024
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you Minna!!

  • Colin Hodgson

    Very fun festival! I was happy to have the opportunity to engage with the local community and meet some cool local filmmakers.

    October 2024
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you Colin!!