Find what you’re looking for below!
How will DIFF 2024 work?
Our venue, The Neon Movie Theater, is currently using a system called Dynamic Ticketing. What this means is that when people buy their tickets (online or in person), the computer system automatically puts a buffer seat in between parties to allow for social distancing. Parties should purchase their tickets together.
How does Dynamic Ticketing affect buying tickets?
Parties should purchase their tickets together. For instance, if I buy a ticket and then my friend buys one separately, the dynamic ticketing will automatically put in a buffer seat between us. While it's possible for the two friends to sit together, that buffer seat will not be eligible for purchase to another festival goer.
What is the Neon Movie Theater like?
The Neon is Dayton’s go-to independent movie theater. To learn more, CLICK HERE to watch a short video that goes in-depth about this wonderful venue.
When and where can I buy tickets?
Tickets for DIFF 2024 will be made available two weeks prior to the event. Tickets can be bought in person at the Neon or on their website (we will link to them on our online schedule as well).
Check back soon for info regarding DIFF 2024.
How much are tickets?
General Admission to all Blocks - $8 each
Students may attend for free. Tickets can be claimed on the day of the event at The Neon. It is first come, first serve. Don’t forget your student ID!
Check back soon for info regarding DIFF 2024.
When and where does DIFF take place?
The 2023 Dayton Independent Film Festival is scheduled for September 22-24 at The Neon Movie Theater in Dayton, Ohio.
Note: Some of the films may contain content that is not suitable for children.
Check back soon for info regarding DIFF 2023.
What genres do you accept?
We accept all genres! We look forward to viewing your short film be it a documentary, fiction, comedy, horror, romance, action, animation, experimental, PSA, music video, you name it! Keep in mind we're looking for films by Midwestern filmmakers or films about the Midwest.
When is the next film submission deadline?
January 1, 2023: Early Bird Deadline
March 1, 2023: Regular Deadline
April 1, 2023: Late Deadline (final deadline for features)
April 28, 2023: Final Deadline (final deadline for shorts)
July 31, 2023: Notification Date
When is the last day to submit my film?
April 28, 2023 for short films and April 1, 2024 for feature films.
How much does it cost to submit a film?
Shorts:
Early Bird Deadline: Standard: $10
Regular Deadline: Standard: $15
Late Deadline: Standard: $25
Extended Deadline: $30
Features:
Early Bird Deadline: Standard: $15
Regular Deadline: Standard: $25
Late Deadline: Standard: $40
I’m not from a state in the Midwest and the subject matter in my film is not explicitly Midwestern but is very relevant to Midwestern audiences. Can I still submit it?
In this situation, films will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Make sure to drop us a line at daytonindependentff@gmail.com. We’d love to learn more about your project!
When will I know if my film is chosen?
All notifications for the 2024 film festival cycle will be sent out on July 31, 2023.
Can I get feedback on my film?
Due to the volume of films submitted, we don’t offer feedback to everyone. Reach out if you’d like to read the programmer’s notes. We will not release notes until after the film festival takes place in September and it may take several weeks to get back to you.
What should I wear?
Friday evening is our red carpet night. This is a time to dress to impress! Saturday and SUnday will be more casual. We encourage filmmakers and those involved in the films to still dress their best, but for those just attending feel free to keep it casual and cosy.
What should I expect?
This will be a great opportunity for networking and getting immersed in the world of independent filmmaking.
Don’t see what you’re looking for?
Fill out the form linked below with any additional questions that you have and we will get back to you as soon as possible!