Richmond Film Network

RFN IS ON HIATUS WHILE WE FOCUS ON OUR OWN CREATIVE PURSUITS. AS A FESTIVAL CREATED BY FILMMAKERS--FOR FILMMAKERS--WE BELIEVE DEEPLY IN THE CREATIVE PROCESS, NOT ONLY SHOWCASING STORIES, BUT IN MAKING THEM. SEE YOU ON SET... OR THE FESTIVAL CIRCUIT!

RFN Indie Fest is Richmond’s celebration of independent cinema, dedicated to showcasing films from emerging and underrepresented voices. We curate a selection of short and feature-length work that deserves a platform—films that provoke thought, inspire dialogue, and reflect the world in all its complexity.

Our festival is rooted in community and conversation. Screenings are followed by discussions with the filmmakers, creating space for authentic exchange between artists and audiences. We actively champion work from diverse creators, recognizing the essential role of varied perspectives in shaping the future of film.

At RFN Indie Fest, we are proud to support filmmakers at every stage of their journeys, and to share their work with audiences who value cinema as both art and dialogue.

Official Selection directors +1 enjoy complimentary admission to the festival in addition to an Official Selection certificate.

The following achievements are recognized:

Best Film
Best Directing
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Screenplay
Best Production Design
Best Score/Music
Best Actor
Best Actress
Audience Choice

Trophies for these standout achievements are presented to one director of the film.

Films must have been completed after January 1, 2024. Exceptions are considered on a case-by-case basis.

While we accept films of any length, shorts no longer than 25 minutes and features no longer than 90 minutes may have a greater chance at being selected and programmed.

Although not mandatory, Virginia premieres are preferred.

Submissions must be in English, subtitled in English, or silent.

If selected, submissions must not be accessible online from time of notification through the date of its screening with us (generally a period of 30-60 days).

In order to accommodate a larger number of films, we may screen selections on multiple screens simultaneously.

We cannot accept works in progress given the tight turnaround to produce a quarterly Series. Consider submitting after your film is complete.

Submitters must have a complete FilmFreeway profile for their film with standard Electronic Press Kit assets including, but not limited to: film, trailer, poster, stills, director headshot, director bio, logline, cast and crew credits, etc. These help us properly promote your film.

Submitters must have rights to the work submitted and understand that submission of the work authorizes the Richmond Film Network Indie Film Fest to screen the work and use the work for any exhibition, education and/or publicity purposes. RFN Indie Film Fest is not responsible for any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits or royalty infringement related to the work. A signed contract to this effect is required upon acceptance.

Submission fees are non-refundable.

Overall Rating

Quality

Value

Communication

Hospitality

Networking

Vitaly Flipgraf

A wonderful festival that felt really invested in their program. From filmmaker podcasts to a considerate film curation, RFN team did an amazing job. The crowd of local filmmakers was also extremely friendly and nice. Saw plenty of great short films, talked to some really interesting people. Would love to participate again, and thanks for having me!

November 2025

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Charlie Lyons

This is a wonderful festival. It’s new but it’s going places. I say this because their communication is excellent and welcoming. Their promotion is great on both social media and through their podcast. And the presentation at the festival was fun, with a full theater, and with a marvelous selection of films. I was extremely happy to be there as a filmmaker. And I would’ve loved it as an audience member too! Highly recommend!

November 2025

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David Patrick Wittle

Everything about the Richmond Film Network’s Indie Fest is amazing!🤩✨🎬🙌 It truly allowed me to showcase my work to a broad audience which has allowed for more publicity to my project in the process!😊✨🎬👍 The Richmond Film Network itself is extremely down to Earth and they are truly committed in showcasing whatever projects you present in order for more doorways to open for your project!🚪✨🎬💫 Whether you’re a Richmonder or not, I highly recommend any filmmaker to submit their work to the Richmond Film Network!🌎✨🎬👍

November 2025

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Dany Horiuchi

I am honoured that my film was screened at the RFN Indie Fest. Many thanks to the excellent organising team for this wonderful opportunity to share my work. Wishing the festival team all the very best for the future!

November 2025

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MARAL FOROUZESH None

"I had a very positive experience with the Richmond Film Network. The communication was clear and professional, and the team showed genuine support for independent filmmakers. I appreciate the opportunity to share my film with your audience. Thank you for your dedication to creating a meaningful platform for creators."

MARAL FOROUZESH & FILKOOL

November 2025

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