The OIFF was founded in 1993 by filmmakers looking for venues for independent work, particularly independent work from filmmakers who are not YET commercially successful.

Originally called the Off-Hollywood Flick Fest, the event gained followers by offering audiences truly independent films they wouldn't ordinarily see. All films selected are films that have not been picked up for theatrical distribution. The OIFF is dedicated to freedom of expression through independent media. The OIFF is programmed 100% from submissions.

In 2019, the fourth annual OIFF "One Night Only" event in which only the top features of any genre and top short films (also of any genre) will be shown at a one day event, held on Saturday, November 2. We also host a pre-event networking party on Friday, November 1.

Rules & Terms

1. All original films of any genre less than 120 minutes TRT are accepted (see Category and Entry Fee info); however, films must not have theatrical distribution at the time of submission.

2. All submissions are electronic. Final cut versions of all films will be required if not the submission copy/version.
Preferred format: Apple ProRes 4:2:2 Standard (not HQ or LT) or h.264. Either would need to be in a .mov wrapper (.mp4 is not preferred)

3. All screening media, press kits, publicity info, photos, etc. will be retained as part of Independent Pictures library. Filmmakers are encouraged to send press/media kits as well as to share the information on social media once accepted for the final event.

4. All filmmakers will be notified of acceptance status by September 1, 2019 (approx.- TBA).

5. Upon 7 day advance request, filmmakers selected for the 2019 OIFF One Night Only event will receive ONE non-transferable Courtesy Pass to the event.

6. Independent Pictures/Ohio Independent Film Festival reserves the rights to further screenings of your film for one year after the event (November 2, 2020). THIS IS NOT GUARANTEED AND WOULD BE DISCUSSED WITH THE FILMMAKERS PRIOR TO ANY ADDITIONAL SCREENINGS.

ENTRY ITEMS
*publicity photos
*press kit, publicity info, news articles (if available)

**SORRY - NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN!! **
4 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Stacey Malone

    I had an amazing time during the whole process! Some one was able to get with me with any questions or concerns I had. They pre-party was really fun and a great opportunity to meet with the other filmmakers. And the day itself was also amazing. I felt very honored to be apart of this film festival

    November 2018
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  • John Maslowski

    I really enjoyed this festival. Great films, great staff and a great venue. I will definitely submit to it again.

    November 2018
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  • DC Evans

    Ohio Independent Film Festival is a very solid, professionally run festival in a unique Cleveland venue!

    December 2017
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  • Beret Strong

    This festival is one I highly respect -- both the programming and the fabulous communication leading up to it. They also have a long track record. Recommended!

    November 2017
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    Fb profile pic
    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much, Beret!