The Short Film Block Party is a one night affair of films that celebrate the creative voices of Detroit and Michigan. We just don't show films, we also throw a party afterwards to celebrate local filmmaking!

Our taste runs the gamut. We want to see short narratives and docs that have something to say about the here and now. We want our audience to be dazzled by the passion, creativity, and enthusiasm that comes out of this community.

We aim to select a diverse and engaging lineup of films from filmmakers from all around Michigan. We encourage people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, nationalities, creeds, orientations, and walks of life to submit!

The Short Film Block Party happens multiple times a year at Cinema Detroit. In addition to the films, we will have food, drinks, networking, and (weather permitting) food trucks!

The first Short Film Block Party was held on May 9, 2018. The next event will be held on July 22nd, 2020.

By giving local filmmakers a venue to display their films, the Short Film Block Party provides a unique opportunity to network and discover other fellow artists for their next creative endeavor.

Awards & Prizes

At the Short Film Block Party, the audience rules. The audience chooses the winner, who will receive a gift bag of unique and exciting prizes.

Rules & Terms

The Short Film Block Party is open to all genres and categories of short films of 20 minutes or less running time. Films with a Detroit or Michigan connection will be strongly prioritized.

Submission may only be made via streaming video. We don’t accept DVD submissions.

Non-English language films must have subtitles.

Film selection announcements for the May screening will be made on April 27th.

For all other inquiries, please email SFBPdetroit@gmail.com

EXHIBITION FORMAT FOR SELECTED FILMS
If a film is selected, the filmmaker must provide an MP4 or .mov; Apple Pro Res 422 or H264; 1920x1080 or 1080p 24-bit audio at 48khz.

5 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Don Hessell & Alan LaFave

    The Short Film Block Party really has something special going on in Detroit, and organizers, film selections, and unique venue come together to create the perfect vibe for independent film. The organizers have a real passion for what they do, and we feel very fortunate to have our film selected. We'll be attending future events regardless if we have a film included or not, and look forward to seeing SFBP grow!!

    November 2019
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  • Christopher Jarvis

    Three of my films have been selected for the Short Film Block Party over the years. This is such a great event for local filmmakers in the Detroit and Metro Detroit area. There isn't a ton of support for the filmmaking community in Detroit and Cinema Detroit is really holding it down and providing a positive experience for local filmmakers. Every screening is sold out and the staff is wonderful.

    August 2019
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  • Italia Millán

    The Short Film Block Party at Cinema Detroit offers local filmmakers a great opportunity to show their work, network with other filmmakers and receive feedback from the audience. The SFBP team does a good job at communicating, promoting and organizing the event. It was a valuable and fun experience! I am looking forward to participating again.

    September 2018
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  • Deb Ethier

    A well-run little festival in a great venue! Good communication from the organisers. It was a pleasure being a part of it!

    May 2018
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  • Thomas Butcher

    What's not to love about a local independent cinema showcasing local independent films? Up-and-coming Michigan filmmakers should have this festival on their submission list.

    May 2018
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