LeapFest is back for its third year—and this time, we are focusing on making a more personalized experience for each filmmaker.

Last year, we had over 150 people packed into one room to watch Arkansas films together—and that energy was something special. LeapFest 2027 is building on that momentum with one clear intention: making this the most personally meaningful festival experience you can have as a filmmaker.

Taking inspiration from The Dundie Awards from the popular TV show The Office, this year we plan to award each filmmaker their own trophy crafted specifically for your film—something only your movie could ever win. We're also debuting signature cocktails inspired by each selected film, curated and poured in your honor throughout the night. These are just a few of the things we're excited to bring to life this year to make your experience feel truly one of a kind.

And through it all, LeapFest stays true to what it was built for: showing Arkansas films on the biggest screen possible, played loud, projected right, and cared for the way great work deserves to be.

Awards & Prizes

This year we are excited to present The Leapy Awards!

Every film at LeapFest 2027 is an award winner—but not just any award.
The Leapy Awards are LeapFest's signature awards, and there's nothing else like them in the festival world. Every trophy is crafted specifically for the film that earns it—a one-of-a-kind recognition that could only ever belong to your film. No two awards are ever the same, because no two films are ever the same.

Think of it like The Dundie Awards from The Office.

Whether it's a nod to your genre, your characters, your crew, or that one unforgettable scene, your Leapy Award is made for your film and your film alone. Something you'll actually want to put on the shelf.

Rules & Terms

SUBMISSIONS ARE OPEN TO ARKANSAS FILMMAKERS ONLY!

While the film doesn't need to be made in Arkansas, it must have been produced, directed, or written by an Arkansas-based filmmaker. Note this in your submission or your film will be disqualified.

If your film is selected, we may use clips for LeapFest promotional materials. We'll contact you before posting anything to discuss which footage we'd like to share and get your approval.

All submissions require a DCP (Digital Cinema Package) to be screened at Malco Razorback Cinema Grill. One can be provided or created for free!

If you need assistance creating a DCP, please contact us at Leapingdogfilmfest@gmail.com.
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  • Clayton Henderson

    Fun one night festival to showcase some of Arkansas’ short filmmakers. Brett did a great job putting this together on a massive screen and when Mother Nature had other ideas, he seamlessly pivoted to another date. I look forward to seeing this festival continue to grow and evolve.

    March 2026
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