Rome Indie Film Festival (RIFF) opens its doors to all forms of independent filmmaking and art.

Our goal is to promote independent cinema and grow Rome's audience for it. RIFF is a home for creative people who want to support each other and grow together.

What we look for -high-quality films strong in:

Plot
Combination of genres
Author's vision
Originality
Cinematography
Production design
Deep characters
We also welcome works in the following formats:

Animation
Experimental
Work in Progress
Screenplays
RIFF Event — our annual public screening is held in the evening, followed by a live Q&A with the filmmakers. Daytime is filled with lectures and art-lunches.

The 2026 edition takes place on 29 May, 6–8 PM at Open Area, Via Anastasio II 367, Rome.

Awards & Prizes

Best Feature Film
Best Feature Documentary
Best Short Film
Best Short Documentary
Best Super Short Film
Best Student Film
Best Music Video
Best Animation
Best Experimental
Best Director
Best Indie Short Film
Best Indie Feature Film
Best Web/TV Series
Best Drama
Best Comedy
Best Horror
Best Thriller
Best Sci-fi
Best Fantasy
Best LGBTQ
Best Mobile Phone Short
Best Inspirational
Best Action
Best Actor Short Film
Best Actress Short Film
Best Actor Feature Film
Best Actress Feature Film
Best Editing
Best Sound Design
Best VFX
Best Cinematography
Best Production
Best Music Video
Best Short Script
Best First-Time Screenplay (Short)
Best Feature Script
Best First-Time Screenplay (Feature)

Rules & Terms

*Term & Rules* All films in all genres will be considered. We consider a short to be under 40 minutes. Filmmakers certify they have the rights to music used in their films. Please upload a digital screener to FilmFreeway
*Requirements* For Short Films, the films need to be 40 minutes or less. We prefer most films sit on the shorter end of that spectrum—the average film we feature is 15-20 minutes. For Feature Films, the films need to be at least 50 minutes.
*Premier Status * No premiere status is required. *Rights:* We require films to have all necessary rights and releases secured for us to feature them. Yes, this includes music. *Refund Policy* Unfortunately we cannot refund a submission fee once you’ve submitted your film. Please make absolutely sure you want to submit your film before doing so. As with other festivals, your fee is paid for your film to be considered.

*Event*
We’ll notify all participants within two months before offline event and inform about specifications needed.
18 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Giovanni Zelko

    Excellent festival experience. Was honored to receive awards in various categories for our film, which always helps with distribution efforts, especially from an international festival in Rome.

    April 2025
    Helpful
  • Cindy Song

    Rome Indie Film Festival is a great festival that truly celebrate humanity, love in arts. The juries are impartial, courageous and kind.

    March 2025
    Helpful
  • Dr. Scott Glenn

    The Rome Indie Film Festival is amazing! Sound, prompt feedback and a festival with a plethora of talent! I am proud to be a part of this grand film festival as a winner as well! Great job Rome!

    March 2025
    Helpful
  • FRANCESCA STANGONI

    A wonderful festival where the talents can showcase their projects and their skills, great job! tks for your amazing prize!

    March 2025
    Helpful
  • Andy McQuinn

    Thank you for the great experience with your festival. I appreciate the prompt and positive communication.

    September 2024
    Helpful