Now in its 25th year, the OJAI FILM FESTIVAL continues to grow in importance and prestige as one of the country’s premier destination festivals. The 4-day event has a reputation for showcasing the best new films from emerging and established filmmakers, and has helped launch a number of careers over the last two decades. Since 2000, 15 alumni have received Academy Award nominations, two have won an Oscar, and numerous others have gone on to gain distribution and win prestigious awards.
All local filmmakers are automatically entered into our regional Gold Coast track which highlights local talent and offers its own prize: the Bill Paxton Award.
FILMMAKER BENEFITS
1. Free Lodging: Local hosts open their homes and welcome accepted filmmakers attending the festival
2. Awards Brunch: Filmmakers and guests are treated to a picturesque brunch at the Awards Ceremony
3. VIP Passes: Filmmakers and guests enjoy the entire festival, receive virtual passes and get access to exclusive networking evening parties
4. Q&A Panels: Filmmakers are invited to engage with the audience after their film presentations
MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
The Festival's theme is “Enriching the Human Spirit Through Film,” but submissions of all types are welcome. The Festival provides audiences a diverse lineup of titles from around the world, including many groundbreaking works that would otherwise be inaccessible. At the same time, it gives filmmakers access to a highly appreciative audience of savvy and informed film fans.
The festival makes the most of its unique location, only 75 miles north of Hollywood - yet comfortably removed from the typical industry hustle and bustle. With its relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking beauty, Ojai is an ideal spot for filmmakers to mingle with visiting industry guests, artistic colleagues, and distributors.
Trophies are awarded to the winners in every category, along with Honorable Mention Certificates.
CATEGORIES:
Best Narrative Feature, Best Narrative Short, Best Documentary Feature, Best Documentary Short, Best Animated Film, Best Film Exemplifying The Festival Theme, Audience Award
ADDITIONAL PRIZES:
Best Student Film: Winners receive a Panasonic $60,000 Camera Rental Package
Social Impact & Vision Award: Winners receive a Panasonic $60,000 Camera Rental Package
Bill Paxton Award: The best film in the Gold Coast track receives a Castaway 7 Sound Package which includes an award winning sound engineer and studio time
All winners are honored at the Awards Brunch, with an opportunity to speak to the filmmakers and community in attendance.