The El Paso Film Festival, a film festival on the far edge of Texas, is one of the largest showcases of independently made films in the southwest.
We curate the best Indie films shot by local, regional and national filmmakers. Come see what the best indie filmmakers are producing in what is becoming the fastest growing Independent film festival in Texas. The festival kicks off September 26-28, 2024.
The El Paso Film Festival was created by filmmaker Carlos Corral in 2018 with the support of the El Paso Filmmakers organization. With the philanthropic help of the Paso Del Norte Community Foundation, the El Paso Film Festival screens original film showcases for aspiring filmmakers and for all who look to enjoy independent work that they won't see in a mainstream theater.
As the signature independent film festival of El Paso, the El Paso Film Festival brings quality short and feature films to its attendees and participants. Working to expand the introduction of new independent films, the festival inspires individuals and groups to embark on their creative journey to write and tell their story for the film and television industry.
From narrative to documentary films, philanthropic support is given to everyone involved in the art of filmmaking. The Paso Del Norte Community Foundation and El Paso Film Festival have thus teamed up to support independent cinema in the southwest border region. We look forward to seeing you at this year's spectacular event.
We love film. So, we support them with resources that go beyond viewing space and applause. With the philanthropic help of the Paso Del Norte Community Foundation, the El Paso Film Festival and its sponsors will be awarding up to $5,000 in cash prizes to independent filmmakers. We’re proud to be one of only 35 independent film festivals in the country to award the best films with cash prizes.
Category Awards
Best Feature Film (Narrative) - $500
Best Feature Film (Documentary) - $500
Best Short Film (Narrative) - $250
Best Short Film (Animation) - $250
Best Short Film (Documentary) - $250
Grand Jury Prize Sponsor - $1,000
The Grand Jury Prize recognizes the feature film with the most captivating story, values, and community impact. This award highlights the filmmaker and their work as the most commendable of all the films submitted to the festival.
Special Jury Prize Sponsor - $500
The Special Jury Prize recognizes the feature film with the most heart, amusement, and comedic impact. This award recognizes the filmmaker and their work as the most enjoyable of all the films at the festival.
Producer’s Award - $500
The Producer's Award honors the Producer that works behind the scenes. They are tasked with making sure the film production has all of the necessary resources, cast, and crew in order to achieve the Director's vision, and do so all within budget.
Director’s Award - $500
The Director’s Award honors the filmmaker who has exemplified exceptional talent, storytelling, and perseverance in bringing their film to light.
El Paso Filmmaker Award - $500
El Paso filmmakers are unique to our region and their work is highlighted on our bi-national stage as the future creative industry of our city. This award is given to the El Paso Filmmaker who has demonstrated remarkable capability, expertise, and hard work in telling a creative story.
Audience Award - $500
We recognize the power of the audience. The audience members cast their votes for their favorite film at the film festival. All votes are anonymous, and only the attending audience members are eligible to vote for the best film of their choice.