Celebrating over two decades of cinematic creativity, the Brooklyn Film Festival is an annual June tradition that shines a spotlight on the best in independent filmmaking. Organized by the nonprofit Brooklyn Film Society, this internationally recognized festival brings together storytellers, visionaries, and film lovers from across the globe for a week of bold, diverse, and thought-provoking cinema in one of New York’s most creative boroughs.

Recommended for

Independent Film Enthusiasts
Discover boundary-pushing shorts, narratives, documentaries, and animations

Emerging Filmmakers
Submit work for a chance to earn prizes, acclaim, and potential industry recognition

Brooklyn Culture Lovers
Experience one of NYC’s most dynamic film events in vibrant neighborhoods like Greenpoint and Bushwick

Festival Fans
Attend screenings, parties, and exclusive events that celebrate the art of storytelling

Things to Experience

  • Over 100 Films: Watch a curated mix of narratives, documentaries, animations, and experimental pieces
  • Themed Programming: Explore annual themes—like “Threshold” in 2018—that unify and inspire festival selections
  • Multiple Screening Venues: Visit iconic Brooklyn locations like Windmill Studios, Alamo Drafthouse, and Syndicated
  • Industry Networking: Connect at filmmaker Q&As, receptions, and after-parties throughout the festival

Special Highlights

  • Annual Awards: Over $50,000 in prizes awarded across categories like Best Feature, Best New Director, and more
  • Global Recognition: Past entries have gone on to win awards and receive Oscar, BAFTA, and Golden Globe nominations
  • Grand Chameleon Award: Top honor awarded to the film that best embodies the year’s theme
  • Flexible Ticketing: Purchase individual tickets, multi-film passes, or full-access festival passes online

Plan Your Festival

Website: brooklynfilmfestival.org
When: Annually in June
Where: Multiple Brooklyn venues including Windmill Studios (Greenpoint), Alamo Drafthouse (Downtown), and Syndicated (Bushwick)
Tickets: Purchase online for single screenings, discounted bundles, or full festival access

Map:


Plan Your Trip