By combining a vibrant local social scene with a state-of-the-art cinema, every filmmaker and film lover is sure to be impressed and delighted with the theater and surrounding location. The combination of great film screenings, press and red carpet events, parties, and panels, makes this a dynamic and a must-go film festival.

Look out for genres and themes. But, ultimately, we're looking for great films. We want to support the courageous, the creative, the new and promising... join us in 2026 for our 13th edition and what is certain to be an enormously enjoyable and memorable event.

Glass awards are presented in an elegant and festive environment for:
Best Picture (Feature Film)
Best Director of a Feature
Best Actor in a Feature
Best Actress in a Feature
Best Comedy Short
Best Drama Short
Best Thriller Short
Best Musical Short
Best Director of a Short
Best Actor in a Short
Best Actress in a Short
Best Documentary Short

WE DO NOT ACCEPT FILMS MADE ENTIRELY WITH AI TOOLS.

There is no limit on the number of films you can submit; however, each film submitted by you must be original and different from any other film submitted by you and accompanied by its own completed submission form and participant agreement.

Films must be in English or subtitled in English and must be submitted via the FilmFreeway platform. All eligible entries received by North Hollywood CineFest will be judged by the North Hollywood CineFest selection committee. North Hollywood CineFest reserves the right to disqualify or reject any film that it determines, in its sole and absolute discretion, to contain prohibited content or is offensive, inappropriate or otherwise unacceptable. Selections will be notified by email.

By submitting your film for consideration to North Hollywood CineFest, you agree that you possess the rights to all visual elements and sound, including music, in your film and you allow North Hollywood CineFest to screen your film, if it becomes an official selection of the festival.

If your film is accepted, a Digital Cinema Package, DCP, will be required - The festival will only play films in the DCP format in the theater. Discs and video files of any other kind are not acceptable.

Any costs associated with making DCPs and/or movie files are paid for by the filmmakers. The festival is not responsible for the cost of any DCP creation or delivery
and will not refund or reimburse any costs associated with the making of DCPs for any reason.

The festival reserves the right to change, postpone or cancel the event at anytime for any reason with no obligation to offer refunds or reimbursement of costs for any expenses filmmakers may have had associated with the festival including but not limited to travel, marketing materials, DCP creation and delivery, and/or ticket purchases.

Employees and their immediate families (parent, spouse, child, sibling and their respective spouses, regardless of where they reside) and those living in their same households, whether or not related) of North Hollywood CineFest and any of their respective parents, affiliates, subsidiaries and advertising and promotion agencies or festival sponsors, are not eligible to enter films for competition.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Jenna Reilly

    This festival was wonderful! The communication was so helpful and clear, the programming was truly excellent, and the community is welcoming and fun! I also loved the venue and location. Can't wait to attend next year! Thank you, Gustavo and team -- this was a fabulous experience!

    September 2025
  • An amazing, well run festival that was perfect for a world premiere. There was clear communication before and during the festival. The red carpet party was a blast, the films were top notch, and the panels were valuable and great networking opportunities. I also appreciated the nomination for Best Director. Thank you Gustavo!

    September 2025
  • We had a wonderful Premiere at Cinefest. They were all around great and what a fine and appreciative audience. We love Cinefest!

    September 2025
  • Maria Luísa Alves

    This is the first review I’ve ever written for a festival, because I think the NoHo Cinefest was truly special. Gustavo, the founder and organizer, was very kind, friendly, and welcoming, making the whole experience feel warm and open. It felt like you weren’t just there to screen a film, but to genuinely connect with the people involved. I would definitely come back to participate again.

    September 2025
  • NoHo CineFest is more than just a film showcase—it’s a hub for networking and a fantastic opportunity for filmmakers to connect with industry professionals. Aspiring filmmakers can learn from experts, gain inspiration, and make valuable contacts in a vibrant, supportive environment.
    Thank you, Gustavo, for organizing such a friendly event! We are honored to have our feature 'Designed by Preeti' be part of the lineup and be nominated for 'Best Director'.
    Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or an independent cinema enthusiast, this event is not to be missed.

    September 2025