What began as a local experiment by a couple of Cleveland college students 50 years ago has grown into one of the world’s most respected film festivals. CIFF has been ranked among USA Today’s 10 Best Film Festivals, named one of the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World by MovieMaker, and listed among indieWIRE’s 50 Leading Film Festivals Globally. But the real measure of CIFF’s influence isn’t found in accolades—it’s found in the filmmakers who return, the audiences who pack theaters year after year, and the stories that become part of Cleveland’s identity.
CIFF is the city's only Oscar-qualifying film festival and routinely showcases award-winning films before they ever take home Academy gold. Two of this year's Oscar-nominated short films, showed at CIFF!
In 2026, they're celebrating 50 years of incredible independent film with up-close access to filmmakers and actors, extended conversations via panels and talkbacks, opportunities to dive deeper into the craft of storytelling through workshops, and fun surprises throughout - from giveaways to parties and more!
Join the celebration this year - whether on Opening Night for red-carpet revelry, between meetings for a round of short films during the week, with the family for Saturday morning relaxed screenings, or long after dinner for our late night rounds. There's something for everyone and you can't get this experience at home on your couch. Innovating filmmaking, captivating stories, and experiences you'll be talking about for weeks.
CIFF runs April 9-18 with screenings downtown at Playhouse Square and the CSU School of Film, and back at our first home, the Cedar Lee Theatre. More information can be found at clevelandfilm.org