Sunset Boulevard LA IFF

Hollywood wasn’t built on safe choices. It was built on risk, on obsession, on stories too wild to be tamed. A great drama is always played out on this boulevard.

This is where legends were born, stars were extinguished, and those who were willing to do anything for one shot, one scene, one chance were born. Billy Wilder's “Sunset Boulevard” shows the other side of the industry, the one where the voices of the past are as loud as the ambitions of the future.

Hollywood is built on dreams, but only a few ever make it past the gates. We believe the best films don’t come from inside the system—they come from those carving their own path, telling the stories no one else will. Sunset Boulevard LA IFF is more than just a festival; it’s a proving ground for independent cinema. We’re here to spotlight filmmakers, writers, actors, and cinematographers who refuse to wait for permission. Those who create because they have to.

What to Expect

Red Carpet, Sunset Blvd Style.

Screenings at Def Noodles Club.

Real Competition – No favors, no politics. The best films win because they deserve it.

Premieres & Q&A Sessions – Watch bold, unfiltered films and hear directly from the minds behind them.

Industry Panels & Networking – Meet the people who make things happen, from rising talents to established professionals. This festival isn’t just about showcasing films—it’s about creating new collaborations.

Sunset Blvd Afterparty.

How It Works

The Selection Process – Filmmakers from around the world submit their work. Our jury —will carefully select the most compelling films across all categories.

The Competition – Finalists will be announced ahead of the festival, and their films will screen in front of an audience of fellow artists, industry insiders, and true cinephiles. Winners will be chosen based on vision, craft, and impact—not connections or budget size./p>

Rules & Regulations – Sunset Boulevard LA IFF

To ensure a fair, high-quality, and inspiring festival experience, all participants must adhere to the following rules.

Independent Focus – This festival is for independent films only. Major studio productions or films with significant backing from major distributors are not eligible.

Original Work – All submissions must be the original work of the applicant. No unauthorized adaptations, remakes, or derivative works.

Completion Date – Films must have been completed within the last two years.

Premiere Status – While a world premiere is not required, preference is given to films that have not yet had widespread theatrical, digital, or television release in the U.S.

Language & Subtitles – Non-English films must have English subtitles.

Length Requirements:
Feature Films – Minimum 60 minutes
Short Films – Up to 30 minutes
Documentaries – Minimum 40 minutes
Experimental Films & Hybrid Works – No strict runtime limits, but the work must be a cohesive narrative or artistic statement.

Submission Categories – Filmmakers must submit their work under the appropriate category (Narrative Feature, Documentary, Short Film, etc.). The jury reserves the right to reassign categories if necessary.

Selection Process – All submissions are reviewed by our programming team and a jury of film professionals. Selection is based on storytelling, craft, originality, and artistic impact.

Notification & Acceptance – Filmmakers whose works are selected will be notified via email. If accepted, a high-quality screening copy must be provided within the specified timeframe.

Screening Format – Selected films must be available in DCP format. Other formats may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Exhibition Rights – By submitting, filmmakers grant the festival the right to screen their film at official festival events.

Marketing & Promotion – Selected films may be used for promotional purposes, including trailers, stills, and short clips.

Filmmaker Attendance – Attendance is encouraged but not required. However, filmmakers who attend will be given priority for Q&A sessions and networking events.

Code of Conduct – We maintain a respectful, inclusive environment. Any harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior will result in disqualification.

No Refunds – Submission fees are non-refundable.

Awards – Sunset Boulevard LA IFF

This festival isn't about box office numbers or industry politics. It’s about recognizing bold voices, groundbreaking storytelling, and cinematic artistry. Our awards celebrate those who push boundaries and redefine what independent cinema can be.

Top Honors

Best Feature Film – For a narrative feature that embodies artistic excellence and powerful storytelling.

Best Short Film – For a short that makes a lasting impact in under 30 minutes.

Best Documentary – For an eye-opening, thought-provoking documentary.

Best Experimental Film – For films that challenge form and structure in exciting new ways.

Best International Feature – For outstanding storytelling from outside the U.S.

Directing & Writing

Best Director – For the filmmaker with the strongest vision and execution.

Best Screenplay – For the most compelling, innovative, and well-crafted script.

Best Editing – For the editor who shapes the narrative with precision and impact.

Performance Awards

Best Actor in a Leading Role – For an unforgettable lead performance.

Best Actress in a Leading Role – For an actress who commands the screen.

Best Supporting Actor – For a performance that elevates the entire film.

Best Supporting Actress – For a standout supporting performance.

Cinematography & Technical Awards

Best Cinematography – For the most visually striking film.

Best Sound Design – For excellence in sound mixing, editing, and design.

Best Original Score – For a soundtrack that enhances the film’s emotional depth.

Special Recognition

Breakthrough Filmmaker Award – For an emerging director making waves.

Social Impact Award – For a film that sparks important conversations and social change.

Bold Vision Award – For a film that takes daring creative risks.

Innovation in Storytelling – For a film that redefines narrative structure.

Audience & Jury Awards

Audience Choice Award – Voted by festival attendees.

Social Impact Award – For a film that Jury Grand Prize – The highest honor, chosen by our panel of industry professionals. important conversations and social change.