Orlando Independent Film Awards is an independent film event based in Orlando, Florida, created to support filmmakers, celebrate original storytelling, and bring meaningful cinema to local audiences.
The festival welcomes short films, feature films, documentaries, student films, and international films from filmmakers around the world. Our goal is to recognize strong stories, creative vision, and the hard work of independent filmmakers.
Selected films will be reviewed by a jury of five members. Award-winning films will receive official festival recognition, and selected winners may be presented during our live screening event in Orlando.
Selected films may be screened at our limited-capacity live event in Orlando, Florida. Attendance is by RSVP only, and venue details will be shared with confirmed attendees.
We are looking for films with heart, originality, strong visual language, and a clear artistic voice. Orlando Independent Film Awards is proud to create a welcoming platform for independent filmmakers and to support the future of cinema.

Awards & Prizes

Orlando Independent Film Awards recognizes outstanding independent films and filmmakers through jury-selected awards.

Award winners will receive official festival recognition, digital award laurels, and an official digital certificate. Selected award-winning films may also be presented during our live screening event in Orlando, Florida on August 19, 2026.

Awards may include:

Best Short Film
Best Feature Film
Best Documentary
Best Student Film
Best International Film
Best Director
Best Cinematography
Best Actor
Best Actress

Rules & Terms

By submitting to Orlando Independent Film Awards, the filmmaker confirms that they own or control all necessary rights to submit the film, including music, image, story, and any third-party materials used in the project.
Films from all countries are welcome. Non-English films must include English subtitles.
The festival accepts short films, feature films, documentaries, student films, and international films. Films may be submitted in multiple categories when appropriate.
All submissions will be reviewed by the festival team and jury. Selection, nomination, and award decisions are final.
Submission fees are non-refundable.
Selected films and award-winning films may be promoted on the festival website, social media pages, and marketing materials using the film title, poster, trailer, still images, director name, and basic film information.
The festival reserves the right to disqualify any submission that contains false information, violates copyright, or does not follow the festival rules.
Being selected or awarded does not guarantee a public screening. Selected award-winning films may be presented during the live screening event in Orlando, Florida on August 19, 2026, depending on programming, time, and venue availability.
The filmmaker is responsible for providing the correct screening file, trailer, poster, and contact information if requested by the festival.
By submitting, the filmmaker agrees to all rules and terms of Orlando Independent Film Awards.