CFA Fest

October 18-19, 2025 | 1st edition

We’re thrilled to celebrate the completion of the first year of the CFA Film Challenge with the launch of CFA Fest! This inaugural edition brings together filmmakers, actors, industry leaders, and audiences for a weekend of learning, networking, and unforgettable screenings.

More About the CFA Fest

Join us for the weekend of October 18, 2025 for a two-day celebration of short films, education, and community-building.

This inaugural festival will feature:

  • Morning Educational Panels & Workshops (10AM–2PM) led by industry professionals

  • Evening Short Film Screenings (4PM–10PM)

  • VIP Parties at the CFA studio for accepted filmmakers, sponsors, and partners

CFA Fest – General Rules & Terms

    • Open to filmmakers worldwide.

    • Categories: Micro Budget (under $1.5K USD), Narrative, Documentary, Music Video, Experimental, and Screenwriting.

    • No genre restrictions, but hate speech, violence, or discriminatory content will be disqualified.

    • No Los Angeles premiere required.

    • All entries via FilmFreeway.

    • Films must include a working screener link (and password if needed).

    • Screenplays must be in English and PDF format.

    • Only paid, complete submissions will be considered.

    • Selected films will screen during CFA Fest and must be delivered as a DCP (unless arranged otherwise).

    • CFA assigns all screening slots.

    • Failure to meet delivery deadlines may result in disqualification.

  • All submissions are final and non-refundable, including:

    • Projects not selected

    • Duplicates

    • Withdrawn entries

    • You must own all rights to your content.

    • By submitting, you grant CFA the right to use promotional materials for marketing.

    • You retain full ownership of your work.

  • If selected and confirmed, you commit to screening at CFA Fest, regardless of other festival invitations.

    • Submission does not guarantee selection.

    • CFA reserves the right to make final decisions on programming, scheduling, and awards.

    • Festival format and details are subject to change.

Dates & Deadlines

May 5

Opening Date

July 15

Earlybird Deadline

August 8

Regular Deadline

August 29

Late Deadline

September 5

Notification Date

June 15

Event Date