Say NO to the BOX!
The kNOwBOX dance Film Festival (NBFF) is an international platform for dance filmmakers who challenge conventions, explore new ideas, and push the boundaries of what dance on film can be. As a dance think tank, kNOwBOX dance serves as a hub for innovation, creativity, and connection within the dance and arts communities.
We are at the forefront of shaping the future of dance filmmaking—leveraging technology, embracing diverse perspectives, and amplifying the voices of artists from around the world. NBFF fosters a space where movement and cinema intersect, creating unique experiences that captivate audiences and inspire new ways of thinking about dance.
At NBFF, we say NO to the BOX—breaking barriers, reimagining possibilities, and creating opportunities for artists to share their work in meaningful dialogue with one another. We curate films that blend dance, art, and film in unexpected ways, ensuring that each selection sparks conversation and innovation.
Through screenings, interactive programming, and global accessibility, we provide a platform for filmmakers and audiences to connect, collaborate, and celebrate dance as a driver of change. Join us in redefining what’s possible in dance and film!
**If your work is selected as an NBFF Official Selection, your film will be showcased in a variety of in-person screenings, thoughtfully programmed to meet the unique needs of our communities in the United States, South Korea, and Mexico. Each location offers a distinct experience, fostering meaningful connections between artists and audiences across diverse cultural landscapes.**
Please note if we select your film as an Official Selection your film will be screened at live festival events. All films will be considered for our digital archive and catalog that will be distributed to independent organizations, schools/universities, cinemas, and/or museums.
Cover image courtesy of kNOwBOX dance Film Festival 2023 "Condition makes construction_light" by BAKI
We are charging for submission to the festival, in order to cover administrative and technological costs. We are committed to providing a platform for dance work across the globe and though we recognize that for many, the submission cost is a manageable fee, we know that for others this amount or the logistics of paying it might be inhibiting. If you are unable to pay the fee but would like to submit please fill our this form with your request for consideration: https://forms.gle/pfffmoGEkm9xUaP18
Discount Waivers
NBFF Alumni qualify for a 50% discount code to submit work. If your work was an NBFF Official Selection between 2019-2024 you qualify for a discount.
Support
If you are planning on submitting and are willing to pay more than $30 USD in order to subsidize the costs, allowing us to present more diverse work, please consider making a donation to kNOwBOX dance designated for the film festival.
https://www.knowboxdance.com/support
Awards
+ #NBFF Official - all selected films
+ #NBFF AttentionGrabber USA - audience selected film
+ #NBFF AttentionGrabber Korea - audience selected film
+ #NBFF AttentionGrabber Mexico - audience selected film
+ #NBFF Visionary - selection committee voted
+ #NBFF Outstanding Performance Award - selection committee voted
PRIZES
+ All films selected for the NBFF 2025 Official Selection will receive a monetary honorarium
+ “Official NBFF” laurel
+ Social Media & Website Feature: promoting filmmaker social media and website links
+ NBFF “#Visionary” guaranteed interview on our Dance Behind the Screen Podcast
+ 2025 NBFF Visionary Award Honorarium
+ Complimentary Tickets/Passes (2 per selected filmmaker)
+ All films selected for the NBFF 2025 Official Selection will be added to our digital archive and catalog that will be distributed to independent organizations, schools/universities, cinemas, and/or museums.