Key West Film Festival 2023
When: November 15 - November 19, 2023
Where: Williams Hall, 729 Fleming St, Key West, FL 33040
Experience the Magic: Key West Film Festival 2023
Lights, camera, paradise! The Key West Film Festival is back, and it's more enchanting than ever. Imagine being part of an event that was named one of "The 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World" by Moviemaker Magazine in 2022. Well, now you can, from Wednesday, 15th November 2023, to Sunday, 19th November 2023. This is your chance to step into an unforgettable Key West experience, where passion meets paradise.
We understand that film is not just about entertainment; it's about art, culture, and community. As filmmakers, film educators, and film lovers ourselves, we at the Key West Film Festival are committed to delivering an exceptional experience that benefits everyone involved.
Located in the laid-back, tropical setting of Old Town Key West, our festival offers historic theaters within walking distance of each other. When the sun sets, Duval Street comes alive, and you can join the famous nightly celebration at Mallory Square. The festival has a history of hosting celebrity guests, adding a touch of glamour to the proceedings.
For our student filmmakers, we have exciting news. We're proud to announce cash scholarship awards totaling $3000, to be presented at this November's Key West Film Festival. All student selections will be in competition for the Kimberly Peirce Scholarship for Student Filmmakers, presented by the Diana King Foundation. Kimberly Peirce, acclaimed director of the Oscar-winning film "Boys Don't Cry," will be part of this incredible opportunity.
What makes the Key West Film Festival truly special is the wealth of experiences it offers:
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Access to Top Film Critics: We've nurtured strong relationships with writers from esteemed publications like the LA TIMES, ROLLING STONE, and NEW YORK TIMES. The festival kicks off with an informative and entertaining "critics chat," setting the stage for you to meet these industry influencers throughout the long weekend.
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Artist Talks: We believe in nurturing emerging talent and celebrating industry veterans. Our festival is filled with in-depth interviews and Q&A sessions with seasoned names in the industry. It's your chance to gain insights, forge connections, and make your mark.
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Awards Competition & Ceremony: Every film selected for screening automatically enters the competition. The winners are revealed at our closing night ceremony and party, a moment of recognition that could propel your career.
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Great Films in a Great Environment: Picture this—a beautifully-preserved Old Town Key West, boutique cinemas clustered together, and an ideal tropical climate. You can indulge in Oscar-contending features and captivating shorts, taking breaks to enjoy the ocean, hotel pools, and local brews.
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Unforgettable Parties & Filmmaker Events: Key West knows how to celebrate, and our festival is the heart of the party. From breakfast meet-ups to spontaneous hangouts in historic homes and gardens, the fun never stops.
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A Caribbean Holiday: Bring your crew or come solo; Key West welcomes everyone. Sail, dive, jet ski, kayak, enjoy live music, visit historic museums and art galleries—all with a flip flop-friendly vibe.
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No-Stress Networking: The festival provides ample opportunities to meet, mingle, talk film, pitch ideas, and make connections. It's a supportive environment where filmmakers and VIP pass-holders can thrive.
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Film Screenings and Special Events: Our ethos is all about inclusivity, fun, and community-building. All selected films come with two FILMMAKER badges, granting access to parties, special events, and film screenings. We believe in celebrating the art of cinema and building a strong community.
Join our unique community, where we celebrate our pride of place in South Florida, the Keys, and the Caribbean islands, all while welcoming the best talent from around the country and the world.
Awards and prizes await, and the rules are clear. Whether you're a short filmmaker, a feature film creator, or a student filmmaker, there's a place for you at the Key West Film Festival.
Don't miss this chance to be part of something magical. Unlock your cinematic dreams and immerse yourself in the Key West experience where passion truly meets paradise. See you at the Key West Film Festival 2023!
