The Manzanita Film Festival, now in its second year, is dedicated to celebrating the rich cinematic heritage of the Pacific Northwest region. Films made in, about or relating to issues of the Pacific Northwest will be considered. Filmmakers whose work focuses on the north coast of Oregon are especially encouraged to submit their work. A two-day in-person event held in the picturesque coastal town of Manzanita, Oregon, this festival aims to showcase films that capture the essence, culture, crafts, and stories unique to the Pacific Northwest with a special consideration for the Oregon coast. By highlighting the creative achievements of filmmakers from our region, we aim to foster community pride, inspire creativity, and provide a platform for local filmmakers to share their work with a broader audience.

Rules & Terms

Films that are made by Pacific Northwest filmmakers, or whose subject matter directly relates to the Pacific Northwest will be considered.

Films whose productions were completed after January 1, 2023 are eligible. There are no premiere restrictions. If your film has been screened online as part of a ticketed film festival, you are still eligible.

Films under 20 minutes running time will be considered for the short film categories.

By submitting a project to the festival, you agree that you reserve the rights to do so and are allowing the festival the rights to screen the film for a live audience. The decisions made by our judges and jury are final.

All submissions must be either a FilmFreeway online screener or Vimeo link with password. We do not accept submissions of propaganda or pornography films. Entry fee waivers are not available.

Upon submission, you agree that the festival can use your trailer, poster and stills for promotional purposes.

You must retain full rights to all aspects of the film (images, sound and music) and be at least 18 years of age. The festival is not liable for any copyright infringements. You also acknowledge that you have all the rights and clearances to exhibit your film at Portland Festival of Cinema, Animation & Technology.

We do not pay screening fees or shipping costs. Entry fee refunds are not available.

We reserve the right to update our rules and terms.

By submitting your film to Manzanita Pacific Northwest Film Festival, you acknowledge that if the project is accepted you will sign an agreement confirming that you own all the rights to your film.
6 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Katherine Gunning

    Such a lovely time! Was honored that Manzanita Film Festival was my first fest ever. Couldn't have asked for more. Thanks to everyone who put together such a beautiful event!

    December 2025
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    Response from festival:

    We are so happy you had a great experience with our festival! Thank you so much for being part of the event. Hopefully you can join us again in future years!

  • Neil Taylor

    What an amazing festival! I was thrilled to have my animated short film Neon Blue screen at Manzanita this year. Each of the three blocks (live action, animation, and documentary) was filled with incredible, thought-provoking work. Pam and Justin’s festival and their choices for the lineup of films made me feel at home and even more connected to the Pacific Northwest. Can’t wait to come back next year!

    October 2025
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    Response from festival:

    It is so gratifying to hear you enjoyed the festival! Thank you for the kind words and thank you so much for bringing your film, Neon Blue, out to Manzanita. It was great having you there. We can't wait to see you and more of your work in future years of the Manzanita Film Festival!

  • Lyssa Samuel

    I had an absolutely lovely time at the inaugural Manzanita Film Festival and am truly honored that my film, Rash, won best live action short. This festival has a lot going for it–experienced organizers, top notch communication, and a beautifully charming setting. What makes this festival stand out the most though is the level of craft of the films and the amount of intention of the filmmakers. I’m not exaggerating when I say that I was inspired by every film I saw and the intimate setting gave ample opportunity to really connect with both filmmakers and audience members. I have a feeling it’s only going to grow from here and wholeheartedly recommend submitting your film!

    October 2025
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    Response from festival:

    We are so happy you had a great experience at The Manzanita Film Festival! It was our goal to create an environment where filmmakers could engage with each other and with audience members in a thoughtful and positive way. It is very gratifying to hear that is what you found at the festival. Thank you so much for sharing your film and being a part of the event.

  • Eva Moss

    What a great film festival experience this was! The staff was so professional, accommodating, and generous. The audience was a community of true movie lovers, and I felt so supported and encouraged as an artist! So many people came up with positive feedback after the screening. The location is obviously stunning and this is just what the Oregon Coast (and particularly my favorite town on the coast) needed! Well done Justin, Pam, and the entire team. I'm excited for next year.

    October 2025
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    Response from festival:

    So glad you had a great experience! It was wonderful having you at the festival. Thank you so much for bringing your film and being part of the event. Looking forward to showing more of your work in the coming years and having you back out to the beautiful town of Manzanita!

  • Malcolm Lamont

    I had a blast at the Manzanita Film Festival. Its located in a small beach town in Oregon and therefore the audience is largely made up of non industry people. It was a great chance to see my film get a genuine reaction from a "real" audience. It might even be interesting to present an "audience award" in future years...? Justin and Pam were extremely hospitable and I hope to come back again next year.

    October 2025
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much, Malcolm, for sharing your film with us and coming out to the event. We are really happy you enjoyed it! There will definitely be an audience award next year. That is a great suggestion. Looking forward to showcasing more of your films in the future!