We are the west coast premier destination festival for films such as fest favorites like Damsel starring Robert Pattinson and Mia Wasikowska, to world premiere new discoveries like Netflix favorite Abducted in Plain Sight and many more.

We are dedicated to discovering and supporting the next generation of filmmakers. There’s a reason MovieMaker magazine has named Mammoth Lakes Film Festival as one of the “Top 50 Film Festival’s Worth Your Entry Fee” for the last four years in a row¬: We put our filmmakers first!

Last year we focused on bringing top-level press to the festival to get maximum exposure for our filmmakers. 2019 attending press and industry professionals included Variety, Hollywood Reporter, The LA Times, A24, MovieMaker Magazine and more.

The 6th annual Mammoth Lakes Film Festival will screen features and shorts for five days in the spectacular setting of Mammoth Lakes—California’s premier mountain resort, high in the Eastern Sierra. It will take place on the Wednesday through Sunday leading up to Memorial Day 2020.

MLFF captures the imagination of audiences and contributes to the vitality of film culture by providing emerging filmmakers with an opportunity to show their latest work in a vibrant and nurturing atmosphere. Visitors are drawn to the area to experience exciting new films by both new and established independent artists, and for the opportunity to mingle with them at fun and friendly daily events. The festival is also a forum for filmmakers to have their work seen by industry professionals who have the potential to provide mentorship and propel their careers.

We are committed to promoting film as an art form by focusing on personal, innovative, imaginative films by writers and directors with a unique style and point of view. We present these films in the beautiful natural setting of Mammoth Lakes—a perfect backdrop for an independent film festival and a premier tourist destination in its own right. Because we are a destination resort, just a 4 to 5-hour drive or a quick flight from Los Angeles, we have strong allies within the entertainment industry. Our jury members are acclaimed artists and professionals from the world of independent film. We give out multiple awards in the categories of Narrative Features, Documentary Features, and Short Films. In 2018 we awarded cash and prizes valued at more than $40,000.00. We also provide travel stipends, housing, and festival passes for our filmmakers. Our juries have included Andrew Lazar (Producer of AMERICAN SNIPER), Allison Amon (Producer of THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES), Rachel Winter (Academy Award winning producer DALLAS BUYERS CLUB),and John Feidler (Producer of SERIAL MOM and PECKER). 2019 sponsors included Panavision, Light Iron, VER, Blue Moon, among many others.

The Mammoth Lakes Film Festival, a DBA 501(c)3, is committed to showcasing the talent and imagination of emerging filmmakers and nurturing their efforts to follow their dreams.

Awards & Prizes

Cash prizes from $500.00 to $1,000.00 will be awarded. We will also provide travel stipends, housing, and festival passes for our filmmakers. Camera packages and more to our winners. Over $40,000.00 in cash and prizes were awarded in 2019.

Rules & Terms

Films must have been completed after Jan. 1, 2019.

Films may have screened in other festivals but we do not accept films with past theatrical distribution or that have been broadcast (televised) anywhere in the U.S. before May 31st, 2020.

Films must be submitted via FilmFreeway online screener.

No Fee Waivers are available.

Entry fees are non refundable.

No commercials.

If you choose to send us a DVD screener it must be labeled with the title, running time, your email address, and your phone number. Please place your FilmFreeway# on the Screener.

We do consider works in progress but your film needs to be close to completion and if selected it must be completed before March 15, 2020.

Do not send a press kit until your film has been selected.

All non-English language films must have legible English subtitles.

All multiple submissions must have separate forms and appropriate fees.

The selection committee's decisions are final.

If your film is selected, your screening print and one backup must arrive by May 1, 2020.

If your film is selected, you must provide two high-resolution screen shots, two DVDs and a secure online link for press by April 25, 2020. You will also be asked to provide press materials and a trailer for the website.

All filmmakers under the age of 18 must have a legal guardian submit on their behalf.

Filmmakers must be authorized to submit their films to the 2020 Mammoth Lakes Film Festival (MLFF) and are responsible for the accuracy of all information provided on the application form.

The MLFF may use images, sounds and excerpts from the films for promotional purposes in all media including the MLFF website and may present accepted films at the 2020 MLFF.

You indicate that you have read and understand the MLFF entry guidelines and rules and regulations and that you agree to the MLFF Terms and Conditions. Furthermore, you indicate that you shall indemnify and hold harmless the MLFF from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses (including but not limited to attorney's fees, and costs of the court) which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits, publicity, screening, and loss of or damage to the screening videos entered.
29 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Simon Werdmüller von Elgg

    Mammoth Lakes has been my favorite festival to date. The organizers were very welcoming and accommodating to our team, and the town of Mammoth itself was a joy to visit. There were lots of well-planned networking events during which we connected with many talented filmmakers. Shoutout to Paul and Lesley! Hope to see you all next year :)

    July 2019
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much for coming and letting us screen Lemons. Such a crazy and eerie film that is a true piece of art!

  • Festival Formula Ltd

    The communication with Mammoth Lakes was brilliant. There was an issue with one of our files and the festival let us know promptly. We're thrilled to have 3 clients screen at this fantastic film festival. We hope to one day attend.

    July 2019
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you for submitting to us and... yes, you must come next year. Let's figure out how we can get you here, you will definitely have a blast!

  • John Charter

    I attended this year and the festival topped all of my expectations. Excellent films, panels, and parties with a stunning picturesque backdrop. The festival has an intimate feel where you can get to know and hang out with the other filmmakers. There are a number of top independent film industry folks that come from LA.

    June 2019
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you for bringing your wild piece of art to the Eastern Sierra. It was truly and honor and so glad you guys came and enjoyed yourselves.

  • Michael Dominic

    They are just a warm lovely group of people that put this festival together and they do an amazing job.

    June 2019
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    Response from festival:

    So glad you were able to make it with you beautifully award winning Doc. We are so proud that you chose to screen with us. Such an honor for us!

  • Jess Kellner

    What a pro level festival. Was so honored to be apart of it. The curation was pristine, just so many talented filmmakers. Had an amazing time, they had so many events and things planned for us. A great place for networking, as everyone was crazy talented and cool. Hope to be back soon.

    June 2019
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    Response from festival:

    So much fun having you at the festival with your beautiful work of art. Can't wait to see what you do next!