Top Film Festivals: Northwest US
The most popular and intriguing film festivals in Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Montana, Wyoming and Alaska
Film festivals are exciting, social and educational events that are dedicated to the craft of cinema. Here are highlights of the most innovative film festivals in the NW.
The most creative film festivals in Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Montana, Wyoming and Alaska focus on not only various cinematic interests but also attract a diverse array of films. Have fun at festivals watching innovative films, attending provoking forums, meeting fellow cinema-heads and attending parties!
Anchorage International Film Festival-Anchorage, Alaska
The festival is a ten-day event in December. There are over a 170 independent films in competition and on exhibition from all over the world. The premier award, Best Feature, is presented by the jury At the Golden Ousik Awards Ceremony.
Big Sky Documentary Film Festival-Big Sky, Montana
Best Feature Documentary is the big prize at this festival that runs for a week in February. Over a 100 documentaries from almost 30 countries are shown every year.
Forest Film Festival-Portland, Oregon
This festival, dedicated to the recognition of the history of film is held in May over two days. All films in competition are just 90 seconds to 30 minutes long. Enjoy shorts in animation, documentaries, and live action.
Jackson Hole Film Festival-Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The Cowboy Award is the ultimate jury prize at this June five-day festival. It features over 80 independent films in seven program categories, including: features, documentaries, shorts and animation.
Northwest Film Festival-Portland, Oregon
This week long festival held in November features independent work from Northwest filmmakers. The jury has been comprised of recognized members of the film community as Gus Van Sant (”My Own Private Idaho”).
Portland International Film Festival-Portland, Oregon
This festival is held for a week in February. It exhibits over 100 films from countries outside of the United States. The Audience Award is the ultimate prize.
Seattle International Film Festival-Seattle, Washington
This celebrated festival begins in the end of May and lasts for two weeks. Its focuses on the culture and art of the moving image. Many international artists are members of this elite jury. Fittingly, the Grand Space Needle Award is the big prize.
Seattle True Independent Film Festival-Seattle, Washington
This off beat two day June festival features works form Northwest filmmakers. The STIFFY is the highly coveted prize and over 20 STIFFYs are awarded. The awards range from “Best Skateboard Film” to “Hottest Actress” to “Best Seattle Short”.
Sun Valley Spiritual Film Festival-Sun Valley, Idaho
This weeklong September festival embraces the “celebration of human spirituality through film.” It also features some outstanding speakers representing all aspects of the spiritual community.
