Albany FilmFest

Albany FilmFest

Also known as: Albany (short and really short) International FilmFest
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Albany FilmFest presents independent short films from the San Francisco Bay Area and around the world, with narrative, documentary, animation and very short film competitions. Based in Albany, California, the volunteer-run festival traces its first edition to 2011 and supports youth media education through two age-group competitions. Filmmaker discussions accompany screenings, and a noncompetitive showcase gives current and former Albany and El Cerrito residents a separate route to present their work.

The festival is fiscally sponsored by Independent Arts & Media. Its latest full short-film edition spans 10–19 October 2024, with screenings on 10, 12, 13 and 19 October at Rialto Cinemas Cerrito in El Cerrito. The wider programme includes environmental screenings and a documentary series with the Berkeley Film Foundation. The Joseph Andre McCord award recognises short films addressing social justice and racial equity.

Country

United States (USA)

Focus

Animation, Comedy, Documentary, Drama

Categories

Animation, Documentary, Short

Awards and prizes

Cash awards recognise Narrative Short, Documentary Short, Animated Short, Tiny Movie and two youth categories, with an additional Best in Show award. The Joseph Andre McCord award recognises the best short film on themes of social justice and racial equity. An industry jury chooses the competition winners. Cash prizes require a valid United States tax ID.

Festival rules

Digital submissions are accepted through FilmFreeway. International filmmakers are eligible; films in languages other than English require English subtitles. Each paid entry requires a separate submission and fee. Films with distribution or previous television broadcasts are not eligible. Competition categories include Narrative Short, Documentary Short, Animated Short, Tiny Movie and two youth categories, ages 6–12 and 13–17 or high-school senior. Selection considers originality, production quality, artistic impression and programme requirements. The Albany/El Cerrito Filmmakers Showcase is noncompetitive and requires a connection to either city, explained in the cover letter.

Contacts

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