Join us February 25–28, 2027 for the exciting new chapter of the revamped Franklin Film Festival—formerly known as TIIFF—as we usher in a new era of cinematic excellence in one of America’s most artistic communities.

Rooted in Middle Tennessee's southern soul, our festival is built for the audiences and filmmakers who believe where a story originates shapes what it becomes.

Franklin, TN, just 30 minutes south of Nashville, is a beautiful, historic town consistently recognized for its culture, walkability, and character. With its iconic Main Street, thriving locally owned businesses, and deep sense of community, Franklin offers an atmosphere that is creative and welcoming.

Blending rich heritage with the south’s bustling music scene, Franklin provides an exceptional backdrop for meaningful cultural experiences. Here, events are personal. Conversations move slower and last longer. Connections are made through shared values.

At the Franklin Film Festival, screenings are celebrations of storytelling, southern hospitality, and the creators our community endeavors to uplift.

Rules & Terms

1. Films must be submitted via FilmFreeway and include a working screener accessible via FilmFreeway in order to be considered.
2. Previously submitted films are ineligible, including films that have been significantly re-edited.
3. The application fee is non-refundable.
4. Submitted films may not have been released theatrically, shown on television/streaming or made available online (outside of virtual film festivals) in the US prior to the festival.
5. All submissions must be free from any legal disputes and the filmmaker must have cleared all rights for music and exhibition.
6. Franklin Film Festival presents all films in their original language. Non-English language submissions must be accompanied by English subtitles.
7. A student submitting a film must provide a photocopy of a current and valid student ID or a letter from his/her school verifying enrollment.

Feature Films: run time over 60 minutes
Short Films: run time under 20 minutes

50 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Chris Moreland

    Communication before the festival was overwhelmingly positive despite my first-timer missteps. Thanks for the selection!

    January 2026
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  • Anne Trenning

    The very definition of excellence. Outstanding from beginning entry to the fine recognition we received. Experienced directors with a true interest in the films they selected and genuine sincerity with their agenda of outreach. We were delighted and honored to participate and be a part of this outstanding film festival.

    November 2025
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you. Anne, It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Best of luck in the future. Please consider returning to our festival wih another project in the future.

  • Ryan Dugger

    Nancy and David have always done a great job at this festival. They bring in some amazing guests for the workshops, and as a filmmaker, it adds a ton of value to the entire experience. We were honored to premiere Sierra 914 in our hometown at TIIFF.

    November 2025
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you Ryan for trusting us with Sierra 914. The second it was previewed I received YES YES YES from the panel. Best of luck i all your future filmmaking and hoping to see more of your work at our festival. Cheers, Nan

  • steve peletz

    Nancy and David organizea a great festival in the Historic town of Franklin Tennessee near Nashville. It was great to meet other filmmakers and see so many films screened. They did a great job greeting the filmmakers, encouraging us to do Q&A - and spend time with other filmmakers who work as hard as we do to make great films! Two thumbs Up!

    November 2025
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you Steve. We enjoyed having your film Land's End. Hope to see you again. All our best, Nan

  • Michelle Ford

    This was a very fun festival run by kind and supportive people. It was an honor to have my film be an official selection.

    January 2025
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you for bringing your excellent film and participating in our 2024 film festival. We look forward to you returning another year.