21st Palm Beach International Film Festival Call for Entries

The Palm Beach International Film Festival (PBIFF) has announced its official Call for Entries for the 21st edition, April 6-14, 2016. PBIFF will present new movies from the U.S. and around the world, and will play host to filmmakers, producers, and actors to represent and discuss their work. The 21st PBIFF lineup is expected to include over 100 narrative features, documentaries, shorts, and music videos.

As in previous years, PBIFF will be accepting submissions online, via email, or via physical delivery. The entry site is up and running now and filmmakers may begin submitting their work immediately at our official site. You'll find everything you need to know about categories, fees, awards, deadlines, etc.

I moved here almost four years ago, making PBIFF my new hometown festival. Towards the end of 2012 I was invited to become a member of the Programming Board for the 2013 festival. Prior to that point I’d covered over 60 film festivals as a journalist. I had the honor of being one of those fortunate folks who screens submissions and helps select those which will be accepted for the lineup, in addition to hosting dozens of filmmaker/actor Q&As and photographing events.

The following year I was invited to assume the position of Operations Manager for PBIFF 2014, and I became Artistic Director for the landmark 20th Palm Beach International Film Festival this past April. PBIFF 2015 presented 120 films, of which 50 were foreign, representing 24 countries. Nearly 80 features were presented, including 30 World, International, North American, and US Premieres. Over 60 filmmakers and actors chose to attend. Many made the trip here at their own expense from countries such as Canada, Israel, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Venezuela, to name just a few, making the 20th edition more electric, more exciting, and more entertaining for all. Some found new connections for future work, many made new friends, and all had a good time being here.

Their presence, along with patrons and press and cinephiles from throughout the region, helped ensure PBIFF’s place as one of America’s most esteemed regional film festivals. The hard work of our staff and volunteers, along with PBIFF’s friends, members, sponsors, and, of course, the filmmakers, made the 20th Palm Beach International Film Festival the biggest, best, and most applauded cinematic event in the area’s history. You can find many photos on PBIFF’s official Facebook and Twitter, along with festival highlights and coverage of our special events and awards.

At the close of the 2015 festival, under new President and C.E.O. Jeff Davis, I took over the position of Executive Vice President of both the Palm Beach International Film Festival and The Palm Beaches Theatre in Manalapan. The gorgeous 250-seat venue will host the annual festival as well as film events all year long.

As we prepare for the 21st PBIFF I’ll keep you updated on some of the big events we have planned. I can’t wait to share them with you!