info for filmmakers
RFN Indie Film Fest is where visionary storytellers and film enthusiasts converge to experience innovative independent cinema. Each quarter, we showcase a carefully curated selection of short and feature films that inspire us and push the boundaries of storytelling, followed by insightful filmmaker talkbacks that spark conversation, connection, and community.
In addition to films, audiences may enjoy panel discussions, workshops, or live table reads featuring local writers and actors, while our Brews and Views Zone showcases trailers, proofs of concept, and music videos. With an atmosphere charged with creativity, RFN Indie Film Fest offers the perfect mix of entertainment, community, and inspiration for both creators and cinephiles alike.
Our quarterly format keeps the festival a constant cultural presence, making it a catalyst for collaboration and new ideas. Whether you're a filmmaker looking to share your voice, or a film lover craving original content that reflects today's world, RFN Indie Film Fest is the place to be.
We encourage submissions from women, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and the Virginia/DMV community. We celebrate diverse voices across genres and backgrounds, ensuring every audience member sees themselves represented on our big screen.
Our fest prioritizes substance and quality over quantity. In our first season, we screened 44 films from seven countries and 11 states, with winners crowned in 13 categories. For our second season, spanning four months, expect to see 50 shorts and four features on our main stage, and more shorts, trailers, proofs of concept, and more in our Brews and Views Zone.
The Park—Richmond's premier entertainment venue—sets the stage for unforgettable cinematic moments, offering free parking, a variety of food and beverages, and a welcoming space that lets you dive into conversations and connections sparked by the films.
RFN Indie Film Fest supports Richmond as a dynamic cultural hub for independent film—one that champions unique voices and fresh ideas in every screening. Join us and be part of a growing movement that celebrates the spirit of indie cinema, right here in Richmond.
Awards and Prizes
Official Selection filmmakers enjoy complimentary admission to the fest for which their film is selected to screen in addition to an Official Selection certificate.
An Audience Choice Award is selected at each quarterly fest.
At the conclusion of the Season, the following achievements are recognized:
Best Film
Best Directing
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Screenplay
Best Production Design
Best Score/Music
Best Actor
Best Actress
Trophies for these standout achievements are presented to the winners.
Rules and Terms
As we are a quarterly series festival, submission deadlines will open and close with each event. Here is that calendar:
FEBRUARY 8 FEST
- December 28, 2024 submission deadline
- January 8, 2025 notification date
MAY 17 FEST
- February 9, 2025 submissions open
- March 17, 2025 submission deadline
- April 17, 2025 notification date
AUGUST 9 FEST
- May 18, 2025 submissions open
- June 9, 2025 submission deadline
- July 9, 2025 notification date
NOVEMBER 15 FEST
- August 10, 2025 submissions open
- September 15, 2025 submission deadline
- October 15, 2025 notification date
Submissions are considered for programming in any one of the four months in the Series. It is possible for a film not to be accepted for the next scheduled fest, but be accepted for a subsequent fest considering thematic programming dynamics.
Films must have been completed after January 1, 2024. Exceptions are considered on a case-by-case basis.
While we accept films of any length, shorts no longer than 25 minutes and features no longer than 90 minutes may have a greater chance at being selected and programmed.
Although not mandatory, Virginia premieres are preferred.
Submissions must be in English, subtitled in English, or silent.
If selected, submissions must not be accessible online from time of notification through the date of its screening with us (generally a period of one month).
Shorts, features and television episodes are screened on our main stage. Trailers, proofs of concept, and music videos are screened in our Brews & Views Zone.
We cannot accept works in progress given the tight turnaround to produce a quarterly Series. Consider submitting after your film is complete.
Submitters must have a complete FilmFreeway profile for their film with standard Electronic Press Kit assets including, but not limited to: film, trailer, poster, stills, director headshot, director bio, logline, cast and crew credits, etc. These help us properly promote your film.
Submitters must have rights to the work submitted and understand that submission of the work authorizes the Richmond Film Network Indie Film Fest to screen the work and use the work for any exhibition, education and/or publicity purposes. RFN Indie Film Fest is not responsible for any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits or royalty infringement related to the work. A signed contract to this effect is required upon acceptance.
Submission fees are non-refundable.
