**Thespian Cinema Fest**
The Thespian Cinema Fest is dedicated to celebrating independent filmmakers who present unique and captivating stories. Our festival features Three distinct seasons each year: a Horror season in the fall, exclusively focused on horror filmmakers, a Spring season that welcomes films from all genres and Our newly AI Film season.
As we launch our inaugural Spring season, we are excited to provide independent filmmakers with the opportunity to showcase their work on the big screen. The festival also offers exceptional networking opportunities and a chance to compete for prestigious awards.
Based in Los Angeles, California, our screenings take place at the Starlight Cinema in Lakewood, where filmmakers can engage with a live audience. We look forward to celebrating the art of independent cinema with you.

Awards & Prizes

The Thespian Cinema Fest proudly presents a selection of prestigious awards during our festival night, celebrating the exceptional talent within the film industry. Categories include Best Feature, Best Short, Best Actor, Best Actress, and many more, recognizing the artistry and dedication of filmmakers and performers alike. In addition to honoring our winners with exquisite trophies, we will showcase the winning films on our website, providing extensive promotion to elevate your film's visibility and reach. Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration and recognition at the Thespian Cinema Fest!

Prizes for our AI Summer Season

1st Place $1,000 cash Prize plus $200 AI Credit
2nd Place $500 AI Credit
3rd Place $300 AI Credit

Rules & Terms

**Submission Guidelines:**
1. All films must be produced from 2020 to the present.
2. All entries must be submitted via FilmFreeway.
3. If submitting to multiple categories, please note that each submission will incur a separate entry fee.
4. Selected films must be available for download via Google Drive.

Thank you for your understanding and adherence to these guidelines.

3 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Alex Mehra

    I had an incredible experience at the Thespian Cinema Film Festival Spring 2026. It was amazing meeting so many creative and talented filmmakers, producers, directors, writers, and actors all in one place. The people who host the event are extremely kind, professional, and genuinely supportive. They also provide valuable industry resources that make the experience even more worthwhile if your film is selected. I would absolutely recommend anyone to submit to this festival, any year.

    April 2026
    Helpful
  • AMBER NICOLLE

    Can’t wait for the next one!

    May 2025
    Helpful
  • Elizaveta Manina

    Great festival! The organizers are very friendly and stay in touch. It’s a great event for networking — I met a lot of interesting people. A perfect start for emerging filmmakers. I’ll definitely apply again with my next film.

    May 2025
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank You. We really enjoyed your film “I Don’t want to Die” and the actress was so amazing. We look forward to your next project.