FEBRUARY 8 FEST
- December 8, 2024 submission deadline
- January 8, 2025 notification date
MAY 17 FEST
- March 17, 2025 submission deadline
- April 17, 2025 notification date
AUGUST 9 FEST
- June 9, 2025 submission deadline
- July 9, 2025 notification date
NOVEMBER 15 FEST
- September 15, 2025 submission deadline
- October 15, 2025 notification date
RFN Indie Film Fest is where visionary storytellers and film enthusiasts converge to experience innovative independent cinema. Each quarter, we showcase a carefully curated selection of short and feature films that push the boundaries of storytelling, followed by insightful filmmaker talkbacks that spark conversation, connection, and community.
In addition to films, audiences can enjoy live table reads featuring local writers and actors, our highly anticipated Short Script Showdown screenwriting competition, and the Emerging Voices showcase, highlighting fresh talent. With an atmosphere charged with creativity, RFN Indie Film Fest offers the perfect mix of entertainment, community, and inspiration for both creators and cinephiles alike.
Our quarterly format keeps the festival a constant cultural presence, making it a catalyst for collaboration and new ideas. Whether you're a filmmaker looking to share your voice, or a film lover craving original content that reflects today's world, RFN Indie Film Fest is the place to be.
We encourage submissions from women, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and the Virginia/DMV community. We celebrate diverse voices across genres and backgrounds, ensuring every audience member sees themselves represented on our big screen.
The Park—Richmond's premier entertainment venue—sets the stage for unforgettable cinematic moments, offering free parking and a range of food and beverages to elevate your experience.
Our fest prioritizes substance and quality over quantity. In our first season, we screened 44 films from seven countries and 11 states, with winners crowned in 13 categories. For our second season, spanning four months, expect to see 50 shorts and four features on our main stage, and dozens of trailers, proofs of concept, and more in our Brews and Views Zone.
Join us, and be part of a movement that’s shaping the future of independent film!
Official Selection filmmakers enjoy complimentary admission to the fest for which their film is selected to screen.
An Audience Choice Award is selected at each quarterly fest.
At the conclusion of the Season, the following achievements are recognized:
Best Film
Best International Film
Best DMV Film
Best Director
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Screenplay
Best Production Design
Best Score/Music
Best Actor
Best Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Best Supporting Actress
Trophies for these standout achievements are presented to the winners.