Welcome to the
Milwaukee Independent Film Awards, a vibrant celebration dedicated to the indomitable spirit of independent filmmakers. Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, our festival is more than an event; it's a movement championing the dreams and aspirations of independent storytellers who dare to express their unique visions through the art of cinema.

**Mission:**

Our mission is to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the film industry, providing a platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their talents, share their stories, and connect with like-minded creatives. The Milwaukee Independent Film Awards is committed to fostering a community where filmmakers can thrive, encouraging the growth of the film industry in Wisconsin and beyond.

**What Sets Us Apart:**

**A Celebration of Independent Spirit:** At the heart of the Milwaukee Independent Film Awards is the celebration of independence in storytelling. We honor the creative freedom, resilience, and innovation that independent filmmakers embody.

**Focus on Wisconsin Talent:** While we welcome submissions from around the globe, a special emphasis is placed on uplifting and recognizing the exceptional talent within Wisconsin. Our goal is to spotlight local filmmakers and create more opportunities for industry work in the area.

**Diverse Categories & Awards:** Our award categories are designed to recognize excellence across a wide spectrum of filmmaking disciplines, from directing and cinematography to acting, screenwriting, and beyond. Special awards will also highlight films that best capture the spirit of Wisconsin.

**Advancing Industry Growth:** Beyond celebrating achievements, the Milwaukee Independent Film Awards is committed to advocating for more industry work and opportunities in Wisconsin. Through partnerships, sponsorships, and community engagement, we aim to contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of the region.

- **Awards Ceremony:** Join us for a night of glamour and celebration as we honor the remarkable achievements of independent filmmakers with awards that recognize their creativity, dedication, and impact.

Whether you're a filmmaker, a cinephile, or an advocate for the arts, the Milwaukee Independent Film Awards invites you to be part of this extraordinary celebration of independent cinema. Together, let's champion the stories that move us, challenge us, and have the power to bring about change.

Let's make history together and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in filmmaking. Welcome to the Milwaukee Independent Film Awards – where every story's spirit matters.

Festival Format:

Our general format for the festival will be:

November 16th -
10am-4pm at UWM Union Cinema - Opening Ceremonies, followed by screenings and filmmaker Q&A
November 17th -
11am-4pm at Schubert Hartford Theaters - Screenings and Q&A
4-6pm Break to move to The Bend Theater
6:00 Settled at The Bend
6:30-10pm Final Screenings
10pm-Midnight at Restaurant Across the street - Awards and Closing Ceremonies

The Milwaukee Independent Spirit Feature Film Award - $200 - Wisconsin Resident Filmmakers only
The Milwaukee Independent Spirit Short Film Award - $100 - Wisconsin Resident Filmmakers only

Best Feature Film Awards
Best Director Awards
Best Writer Awards
Best Editor Awards
Best Music Awards
Best Actor/Actress Awards
Best Supporting Actor/Actress Awards
Best Cinematographer Awards
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Best Short Film Awards
Best Director Awards
Best Writer Awards
Best Editor Awards
Best Music Awards
Best Actor/Actress Awards
Best Supporting Actor/Actress Awards
Best Cinematographer Awards

By submitting your film, take note that:

- You agree to let us use parts of your film, the trailer, teaser, film poster, and/or stills, for promotion.
- The Entrant/s submitting the film must hold all legal rights for the submission, including the music.
- Entry fees can't be refunded.
- Filmmakers can submit multiple entries, and each entry can be in different categories.
- Non-English language produced films must have English subtitles or be dubbed in English.
- Scripts must be in English and properly formatted.
- Only submissions via FilmFreeway are accepted.
- Film Selection does not guarantee screening.
- UWM submissions does not guarantee Selection status.
- Submitting to this festival means agreement to all of the above terms and conditions.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Thanks for the Semi Finalist place for 'Psyched'. Sorry I could not attend. I appreciate the feedback.

    April 2026
  • Great film festival! Thank you for showcasing our short film GIN.

    December 2025
  • Oliver Rotter

    Dear Festival Team,
    the "Goodnight Killer" Team is incredibly grateful and honored to be part of your 2nd edition and to be awarded Best Foreign Feature Film :-)
    Unfortunately we could Not attend in person. But the communication with the festival was top and we felt welcome.

    Kind regards :-)

    December 2025
  • Bowdin Bentz

    Great festival. They make a point to show local films. Excellent networking opportunities.

    December 2025
  • Gregory Mallard

    Excellent communication provided throughout the judging process. Polite and well organised festival staff. Thank you to Milwaukee Independent Film Awards for supporting independent filmmakers around the world. Would highly recommend.

    December 2025