Filmmakers have lauded Albany FilmFest “one of the best festival experiences I have had” and “an absolute gem of a festival." Our festival, now in its fourteenth year, is multicultural, multi-voiced celebration of independent short films from the San Francisco Bay Area and around the world. We welcome submissions from filmmakers of all ages, encouraging conversation, community, and engagement between the filmmakers and our interested, enthusiastic film-goers.
The vision and voice of artists is essential to a vibrant society. Each year, we see film submissions that reflect the zeitgeist, evoke engagement and conversation, empower connection, and entertain us with the wide-ranging mix of subject matter that reflects their makers’ passions. Our always eclectic mix of drama, comedy, documentary, and animation embraces and explores the many and varied concerns of the world we live in: climate, communities in transition, visual arts, music, dance, the LGBTQ+ community, aging, social justice, and more.
In addition to our always eclectic mix of drama, comedy, documentary, and animation, AFF2024 will feature an Albany GreenFest program of short films spotlighting our changing planet. For the third consecutive year, in addition to cash awards for best in category, we will also present the Joseph Andre McCord Award to the best short film on themes of social justice and racial equity.
Albany, California, is home to friendly businesses, award-winning restaurants, and both funky and upscale bars. We're right next door to Berkeley, directly across from the Golden Gate Bridge, and just a few blocks from our venue in El Cerrito. Hope to see you there!
Best Narrative Short = $250
Best Documentary Short = $250
Best Animated Short = $250
Best Tiny Movie = $250
Best in Show = $350
Youth 6-12 = $150
Youth 13-17 = $150
Joseph Andre McCord Award = $250
Please note: Only filmmakers with valid US tax ID are eligible for cash prizes.
ENTRY FEE COUPONS
AFFFF50: Filmmakers whose films were accepted and shown at previous Albany FilmFest screenings are eligible for a 50% submission fee reduction for new films.
AFFSTUDENT: $10 discount on submission fees for college/film school students. MUST provide proof (valid current student ID)
AFFSCHOOL: 50% submission fee reduction for youth films submitted by camps and schools.
No other waivers or exceptions will be granted.