Clifton Film Celebration brings independent film to beautiful, historic Clifton, Virginia. The three day event features networking events, screenings, and awards.
Your submission automatically makes you eligible for any awards in the given category, and all cross-category awards (Best Drone Application, Best Shot, etc.).
The "Clifton Caboose" Award is an audience choice award and will be presented to the audience favorite of all films screened at the festival.
The "Do The Thing" Award is our version of the "Spirit Award" - it's awarded solely by our Festival Director. This award is to recognize films that look an impossible challenge in the face and decide to Do The Thing anyway - whether it's difficult subject matter, an experimental concept, a crazy shot or stunt - anything that would make most people throw their hands up and walk away. Think your film deserves a nod? Submit today and reach out to us with your story!
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For awards competition, both Documentaries and Narrative Films are split into "Feature" and "Short" categories - HOWEVER - There is just ONE submission option for Docs - your film will be adjudicated based on its total run time (see submission details for more info).
We may adjust the available awards based on submissions. We are considering adding "Genre" awards (Best Horror, Best Comedy, etc.) so IF THIS INTERESTS YOU please let us know!
Years 1 and 2 have been smashing successes - we're excited to continue with year 3 - and we can't wait to watch your film! So what are you waiting for!?!?!
Good luck and DO THE THING!!!
All Official Selection Films & Award Nominees will receive branded laurels.
Winners in sub-categories will receive certificates & branded laurels
Winners in Best Feature, Best Short, and Clifton Award will receive trophies/plaques.
Awards Categories (subject to change):
Best Feature Film
Best Short Film
Best Feature Doc
Best Short Doc
Best Screenplay
Best Director
Best Editing
Best Soundtrack
Best Hair/Make-up/Costumes
Best Acting - Lead Role
Best Acting - Supporting Role
Best Acting - Overall Cast
Best Special Effects - Practical
Best Special Effects - Digital
Best Stunts
Best Cinematography
Best Drone Application
Best New Media Project
Best Music Video
Best Animation
Best Shot
"Do The Thing" Spirit Award
Best Overall Film
Best Veteran/Military Film (featuring vets, advocating for vets, etc.)
Best Student Short Script Submission - 10 Pages Maximum
"Clifton Caboose" Award: Audience Choice, tallied live and announced at festival closing with all other awards.
*Awards categories subject to change based on submissions*