Independent Film Nights at the Newtown Theatre feature a series of independent short films at the oldest continuously-operating movie theater in the United States.

Our next Independent Film Night event will feature short films (no documentaries) at 7:30 PM on Thursday, April 16, 2020.

Our next Independent Film Night will be held on Thursday, April 16, at 7:30 PM.

Independent Film Night is open to everyone, from students to seasoned professionals. Our first priority is the quality of the films we show. Special consideration is given to filmmakers in the Philadelphia region, but filmmakers can live anywhere in the United States.

Maximum running time is 20 minutes and the minimum running time is 4 minutes. Films must be in English or include easily-readable English subtitles.

Profanity and adult themes are acceptable if used purposefully. Graphic violence, sexual assault or torture will not be considered.

We look forward to seeing your best work! Please submit only one film per Independent Film Night. Filmmakers who submit more than one will not be considered.

Thank you for reading these rules! The submission password is NEWTOWN (all caps)

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Azalia Muchransyah

    Thanks a lot for selecting my short film to be screened at the event. I really appreciate the great communication and publication.

    July 2019
  • Jon Rehr

    Having our film play in this historical theater was quite an honor. The kind crew running the event let us say a few words before our film played which was much appreciated. Great mix of films and genres selected, and one of the biggest crowds of any film festival we've been a part of.

    November 2018
  • Beautiful old theater with great quality projection and audio. Our film looked and sounded awesome. Friendly host and staff.
    Unfortunately, there was no Q&A , and I think if there was this event would have been perfect.
    Other than the lack of a Q&A, I believe Independent film nights like these can be much more rewarding than most film festivals.
    I would definitely recommend my fellow filmmakers to submit and attend the Independent Film Night at the Newtown Theater.

    June 2017
  • Annalyn Bautista

    It was a great small location in a cute little town. It wasn't too far to have family and friends drive to attend. I loved that we were asked to speak before the film was showed.

    January 2017
  • Amy Vasquez

    A great night and well run event.

    December 2016