28th Maine International Film Festival Regular Submission Deadline February 14
WATERVILLE, Maine—The regular deadline is Friday, February 14 for filmmakers to submit their movies to the 28th Maine International Film Festival (MIFF). The festival returns to Waterville, Maine, for its 28th edition July 11–20, 2025. For those filmmakers still putting the finishing touches on their projects, there are still opportunities to submit by a late deadline on March 7 and an extended deadline on April 11.
A project of the Maine Film Center, MIFF showcases 100 films during the 10 days of the festival, highlighting the best of American independent, international, and repertory cinema, including the very finest Maine-made productions, celebrated each year with the Tourmaline Prizes. MIFF accepts submissions of feature-length and short films of any genre. Special consideration will be given to works that were filmed in Maine or that have a significant Maine theme or focus. Every year, the festival highlights Maine and New England’s most innovative filmmakers. With 100 films shown across 10 days, festivalgoers can travel the globe while simultaneously enjoying a uniquely local Maine experience.
Visit miff.org to learn more and submit.
“MIFF is a tremendous celebration that brings together emerging and renowned filmmakers from across Maine and around the world,” said Mike Perreault, executive director of the Maine Film Center. “With networking and educational opportunities, the best sound and projection you can experience in the state, and a dedicated, curious, and adventurous audience, participating in the festival is more than just exhibition—it’s a place where connections, relationships, and storytelling develop.”
During MIFF, thousands of cinemagoers will visit the Maine Film Center’s three-screen cinema in the Paul J. Schupf Art Center, and experience screenings in the 123-year-old Waterville Opera House. Throughout the festival, attendees can explore gallery exhibitions in Schupf Arts’ two exhibition spaces, participate in art-making workshops presented by Waterville Creates and partners, and enjoy live music in a riverside outdoor venue as Waterville Creates and the Opera House kick off their annual, free Waterville Rocks concert series the day MIFF begins. A burgeoning downtown area continues to welcome new local businesses, expanding upon the already robust dining and shopping options.
Maine Student Film + Video Festival
Young filmmakers may submit their projects to the 2025 Maine Student Film + Video Festival (MSFVF). MSFVF will take place July 19 as part of the 28th Maine International Film Festival. Student filmmakers will have the chance to see their films screen before an international audience, meet with professional filmmakers from around the world, and win prizes, including filmmaking gear and a $500 grand prize. Maine students can submit their films by June 15.
MSFVF is sponsored by Maine Public. Visit mainestudentfilm.org to learn more, read over festival guidelines, and submit films.
About the Maine Film Center
The Maine Film Center (MFC) brings world-class independent film to Maine through the only Sundance Art House Project cinema in the state; the annual Maine International Film Festival, a 10- day celebration that attracts filmmakers and film lovers from around the world; and by delivering impactful, accessible exhibitions and education programs. MFC is a division of Waterville Creates. For more information visit MaineFilmCenter.org.
About MIFF
Founded in 1998, the Maine International Film Festival (MIFF) is a project of the Maine Film Center. The 10 days of the festival showcase around 100 films, representing the best of American independent and international cinema, and spotlight some of Maine and New England’s most exciting and innovative filmmakers.