The California Woman Film Festival is a bold and independent platform dedicated to showcasing the creative power, depth, and diversity of women in film. Born out of a desire to amplify the voices too often overlooked in the mainstream industry, our festival celebrates female-driven storytelling in all its forms—raw, poetic, daring, and unapologetically honest.

We champion independent cinema that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions, created by women who dare to tell their truths. Whether it’s a first-time filmmaker or an established visionary, we believe every story told from a woman’s perspective has the power to shift culture, provoke thought, and move hearts.

As a fully online film festival, we provide a digital stage where selected films are featured and recognized without the constraints of physical venues. Our goal is to make space for underrepresented voices and to celebrate the work of women in cinema with a global audience. This format allows for accessibility, flexibility, and a wider reach—making it easier for filmmakers and audiences alike to connect through the art of film.

We are proudly independent, fiercely inclusive, and rooted in the belief that women’s stories are not a niche—they are essential. The California Woman Film Festival exists to uplift those stories and honor the women who bring them to life.

Rules & Terms

1. Eligibility and Submissions
The California Woman Film Festival is open to all filmmakers who are passionate about telling compelling and impactful stories centered around the experiences, voices, and creativity of women. While the festival celebrates and highlights films by women, it is not mandatory for the film to be made by women. Filmmakers of all genders are encouraged to submit their works.

2. Submission Process
To submit a film, filmmakers must use FilmFreeway, our official submission platform. Filmmakers should create an account on FilmFreeway, upload their film, and follow the submission guidelines provided on the California Woman Film Festival’s FilmFreeway page.

3. Festival Format
The California Woman Film Festival is a fully online event. There are no physical screenings for this festival.

4. Submission Deadline
Filmmakers can find the specific submission deadlines on the California Woman Film Festival’s FilmFreeway page. Please refer to FilmFreeway for important dates, including early bird and final submission deadlines.

5. Submission Fee
A submission fee applies to all entries. Fees may vary depending on the type of submission (short film, feature film, etc.) and the submission deadline.

6. Film Requirements
We welcome films in all genres, including documentary, fiction, experimental, and animation. The California Woman Film Festival is looking for films that showcase the unique perspectives, experiences, and creative visions of women filmmakers. We encourage submissions that challenge conventions, explore new narratives, and offer fresh, impactful stories that resonate with diverse audiences.

7. Multiple Submissions
Filmmakers are welcome to submit multiple films to the festival. Each film must be submitted separately and must meet the eligibility criteria and submission guidelines.

8. Previous Festival Screenings
We accept films that have been previously shown at other festivals. The California Woman Film Festival is committed to providing a platform for a wide range of work, including films that have already been showcased elsewhere.

9. Language Requirements
Films must be in English or include English subtitles. This requirement ensures that a global audience can engage with and appreciate the work being showcased.

10. Selection Process and Notifications
All filmmakers will be notified via email once the selection process has been completed. Please allow time for the review process, as all submissions will be carefully considered.

11. Agreement
By submitting a film to the California Woman Film Festival, you agree to comply with the rules and regulations outlined here. The festival reserves the right to disqualify any submission that does not meet the specified criteria or that violates any of the terms listed.
39 Reviews
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  • Cheryl Hughes

    I was honored to be in this festival and thrilled to have my short script, "The Couch", place as a finalist.

    April 2026
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  • Iancu Tiberiu Alin

    B.S.E. would like to take the time to thank the California Women Film Festival for their enrolment int the documentary film while it being recognized as a "Semi- Finalist". we thank you again for the opportunity and we hope that it can continue making an impact on those that need it the most

    April 2026
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  • Melinda Rothouse

    We were delighted to participate in the California Women Film Festival, and to win an award for Best Music Video. It's a wonderful opportunity for women filmmakers and women-focused projects.

    April 2026
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  • Laura Bondarevsky

    Muy feliz de haber sido parte de un festival que levanta las voces de las mujeres. Gracias por ponerle tanto amor a lo que hacen. Y hacer posibles estos espacios de intercambio para quienes amamos el cine. Gracias por el premio a mi película A brave Old World.

    I'm so happy to have been part of a festival that amplifies women's voices. Thank you for putting so much love into what you do. And thank you for the award for my film.
    Much Love!

    April 2026
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  • Natasha Dean

    Wonderful experience! Thank you so much California Women Film Festival! <3

    April 2026
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