Annual Bentonville Film Festival Announces Submission Openings
The enchanting city of Bentonville, Arkansas, is set to welcome an array of talented filmmakers as the submission periods open for the annual Bentonville Film Festival (BFF). This premier event has been a beacon of inclusivity in the film industry, championing films and filmmakers from diverse backgrounds. Let’s dive into the excitement of what the festival has in store.
A Decade of Cinematic Excellence
The Bentonville Film Festival is entering its 11th year, and it’s been a decade of groundbreaking storytelling. Geena Davis, the festival’s chair and an Academy Award winner, has been at the helm, ensuring that the festival continues to amplify the voices of women, non-binary individuals, LGBTQIA+ people, BIPOC, and people with disabilities. This commitment to inclusivity has made BFF a go-to event for filmmakers seeking to share their unique perspectives.
What Does the Festival Showcase?
The festival showcases a wide range of films. The lineup includes feature films, short films, documentaries, episodic narratives, and more. For the 2024 festival, there were over 75 feature films and 50+ shorts, each selected for their exceptional storytelling and diverse representation. The venues are carefully curated to provide an intimate and festive atmosphere, making every screening an unforgettable experience.
Submission Guidelines
Filmmakers interested in submitting their work must follow specific guidelines. Submissions are now open, and interested filmmakers can apply through FilmFreeway. Anyone submitting films must ensure that at least 50% of the cast and/or crew are from an underrepresented group. The festival also includes a diversity and inclusion questionnaire that filmmakers are required to fill out.
Benefits for Filmmakers
The festival offers a variety of benefits for participating filmmakers. For instance, regional filmmakers receive special attention, with discounts available for those from Arkansas and surrounding states like Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Filmmakers also have the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and build networks that can propel their careers forward.
Community Engagement
Beyond the screenings and panels, the festival has become a significant community event. This year, it participated in Welcoming Week NWA, a collaborative effort featuring family-friendly events, speaker panels, volunteer opportunities, and vibrant cultural celebrations. The involvement of local communities adds to the festival’s charm, making it more than just an event for filmmakers—it’s a celebration of diverse storytelling and community engagement.
Why Bentonville?
Bentonville, Arkansas, is a unique blend of small-town charm and cosmopolitan vibes. Dubbed “a new capital of cool” by the Wall Street Journal, it offers mouthwatering local cuisine, adventurous outdoor activities, and a thriving cultural scene. The beautiful backdrop of the Ozarks provides an inspiring setting for filmmakers and artists to showcase their work.
Stay Updated
Filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts alike can stay updated on the latest news and submission deadlines by signing up for the BFF text notifications. The festival encourages everyone to follow its social media accounts for more information and announcements about upcoming events and special discounts.
The Bentonville Film Festival is more than just a celebration of movies; it’s a testament to the power of storytelling to bring people together. As submissions open, it’s clear that the 2025 festival is shaping up to be another unforgettable event in the cinematic world.
