Altoona Reel Film Festival 2026
Get Ready For Year TWO
Get ready, filmmakers of ALL levels, all regions. The Altoona Reel Film Festival is gearing up for year TWO this fall in Altoona, Pennsylvania.
This isn’t just any event, it’s a celebration of creativity, hustle, and the power of storytelling. In partnership with ArtsAltoona, the Altoona Reel Film Festival is where your hard work behind the scenes takes center stage. Whether you're a first-time filmmaker with a phone camera or a seasoned storyteller with a full production crew, this one-day festival is your chance to be in the spotlight.
We're talking bold indies and the kind of thought-provoking cinema that sticks with you long after the credits roll. We believe that the art and passion of filmmaking as a whole deserves to be celebrated; and we want to see your work! The festival will bring together must-see films from seasoned directors to students with fresh new voices, local and abroad.
Expect short film screenings throughout the entire day, Q&A’s with our keynote speaker, engaging workshops, and chances to connect with other creatives. It's a celebration of the indie community and you’re invited!
Important dates & Fees
June 18, 2026
Earlybird Deadline - $20.00
Student - $10.00
July 16, 2026
Regular Deadline - $25.00
Student - $15.00
August 20, 2026
Last-Call Deadline - $30.00
Student - $20.00
September 5, 2026
Notification Date of acceptance
September 19, 2026
Film Festival
Film and Award Categories
All films must be 20 minutes or lessWe welcome all styles of work within the festivals selected genres. Films will be accepted based on picked criteria with opportunities to win awards, connect with fellow creators, and get your work seen by a live audience. This is more than just a screening — it’s a celebration of your passion and persistence.
Our goal? To create a space where everyone’s voice matters, and where creativity and dedication to the art of filmmaking gets the hype it deserves.
At the Altoona Reel Film Festival, your work is the festival.
SHORT - DRAMA
These films should dive deep into the human condition. Think bold storytelling that challenges and connects real-life experiences.
Max run-time: 20 minutes
SHORT - COMEDY
From clever dialogue to laugh-out-loud moments, we want to see these shorts bring the funny and fresh in unexpected ways. Get ready for humor that ranges from sharp satire to pure silliness.
Max runtime: 20 minutes
SHORT - ACTION/ADVENTURE
Fast-paced and full of energy, lets see these films pack a punch in a short runtime. High stakes, daring feats, and edge-of-your-seat excitement await.
Max runtime: 20 minutes
SHORT - THRILLER/HORROR
Dark, eerie, and grippingly suspenseful, these shorts should be designed to keep you guessing — or gasping. Whether it's psychological tension or full-blown terror, we want to feel every twist.
Max runtime: 20 minutes
SHORT - EXPERIMENTAL
No rules, no limits — this category is meant to be a playground for boundary-pushing creativity. From animation to claymation, abstract visuals to sound-driven narratives, these films can challenge convention and redefine what a short film can be.
Max runtime: 20 minutes
SHORT - DOCUMENTARY
True stories told with creativity and purpose, these documentaries inform, inspire, and spark curiosity. Each film offers a glimpse into real lives, real issues, and real impact.
Max runtime: 20 minutes
STUDENT - SHORT NARRATIVE
Narrative storytelling from rising student filmmakers, showcasing fresh voices and bold perspectives. These films prove that talent has no age limit — just imagination and drive. All genres, no limitation; go out and shoot!
Max runtime: 20 minutes
STUDENT - SHORT DOCUMENTARY
Insightful and thought-provoking, these student-made documentaries should bring real-world topics to life with heart and authenticity. A powerful reminder that storytelling starts now, not later.
Max runtime: 20 minutes
Reach out to the ARFF Team
Email us at: AltoonaFilmFestival@gmail.com