A Getaway Focusing On Movies

Get away to the big screen and discover unforgettable films. Iowa film festivals stay with you long after the credits have rolled. See careers launched and engage in discussions with filmmakers. Weekends in Iowa just got more entertaining. View the statewide listing below and start planning your getaway. Don’t forget the popcorn!

JULIEN DUBUQUE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

DUBUQUE - The Julien Dubuque International Film Festival (JDIFF) is a five-day event in April that brings the finest in independent features, documentaries and short films. Attendees come to watch, discuss and support important and interesting films, and enhance the festivals standing as a leading promoter of arts, culture and education. This festival was voted one of the “Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker magazine.

CEDAR RAPIDS INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL

CEDAR RAPIDS - Showcasing movies that have a Midwestern influence. Every April, it offers filmmakers a chance to screen their work and have it critiqued. Films are accepted from any location, but must meet the criteria of having an Iowa connection.

LATINO FILM FESTIVAL

DES MOINES - A free, multiday celebration of Latino culture through art, music, food, live performances and, of course, film. Held in April, the festival is inspired by the annual Chicago Latino Film Festival and was founded by leaders at the Latino Center of Iowa to contribute to the momentum of Iowa’s growing Latino community. The multi-media event is designed to elevate and amplify Latino voices, including local filmmakers. Audiences of all ages and backgrounds are welcomed.

FARM TO FILM FESTIVAL

WASHINGTON - Held in April, it is known for engaging and entertaining audiences through film, inspiring thought-provoking conversation and enriching the community with the promotion of the arts while celebrating film heritage.

INTERNATIONAL DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL

IOWA CITY - An April event run by students at the University of Iowa. Their mission is to engage local audiences with the exhibition of recent short films that explore the boundaries of nonfiction filmmaking.

INTERROBANG FILM FESTIVAL

DES MOINES - The vision is to celebrate creativity, while promoting a wide array of film types. Held in June, the threeday IMDb-verified event is part juried competition, public screening and workshop. Held at the Des Miones Central Library.

SNAKE ALLEY FESTIVAL OF FILM

BURLINGTON - Dedicated to showcasing the best short films from around the world. Films are screened at the beautifully restored Capitol Theater in the heart of downtown Burlington every July. Buy a ticket ahead of time to secure your spot.

48 HOUR FILM PROJECT

DES MOINES - Held in late July, the Project encourages filmmakers and aspiring filmmakers to make movies. The tight deadline of 48 hours puts the focus squarely on the filmmakers—emphasizing creativity and teamwork skills. The completed films are premiered for local audiences just days after they are made. A separate 48 Hour Film Horror Project event is in October.

ALTERNATING CURRENTS

DAVENPORT - Open to all genres. Music. Film. Comedy. Art. In late August, over a dozen venues host a wide variety of original live music, film screenings, comedians and visual artists. The goal of the festival is to help filmmakers promote their work, meet new contacts and create a new audience.

INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL MASON CITY & CLEAR

LAKE - Bringing independent films, unique documentaries and student productions from local, national and international filmmakers as well as prominent actors, producers and directors. Occurs in September and includes workshops, seminars, director Q&A’s, as well as networking opportunities.

INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

SIOUX CITY - Held in October, it is the longest continuously running shorts festival in Iowa. Festival organizers, all volunteers, make film selections from hundreds of local, national and international submissions to produce an outstanding three-day program. Filmmakers and film enthusiasts participate in workshops, hear from industry guest speakers, and enjoy films.

REFOCUS FILM FESTIVAL

IOWA CITY - This October festival focuses on transforming one art form into another, such as a book into a movie. Take in multiple films each day, with screenings preceded by performances by local artists. In addition, a series of curated dialogues, in collaboration with Iowa City Book Festival, takes us deeper into conversation about how an idea journeys from page to screen. There are special guests, parties and celebration!

HALLOWEENAPALOOZA

OTTUMWA - Created by horror filmmakers for horror fans. Held in October, it features vendors, celebrity appearances, costume contests, live music, a Rocky Horror screening and much more. Held at the local convention center.