Welcome to California Women Film Festival

Where the Stories of Women Illuminate the Silver Screen, Against the California Sun.

About Us

California Women Film Festival

The California Woman Film Festival is a bold and independent platform dedicated to showcasing the creative power, depth, and diversity of women in film. Born out of a desire to amplify the voices too often overlooked in the mainstream industry, our festival celebrates female-driven storytelling in all its forms—raw, poetic, daring, and unapologetically honest.

We champion independent cinema that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions, created by women who dare to tell their truths. Whether it’s a first-time filmmaker or an established visionary, we believe every story told from a woman’s perspective has the power to shift culture, provoke thought, and move hearts.

As a fully online film festival, we provide a digital stage where selected films are featured and recognized without the constraints of physical venues. Our goal is to make space for underrepresented voices and to celebrate the work of women in cinema with a global audience. This format allows for accessibility, flexibility, and a wider reach—making it easier for filmmakers and audiences alike to connect through the art of film.

We are proudly independent, fiercely inclusive, and rooted in the belief that women’s stories are not a niche—they are essential. The California Woman Film Festival exists to uplift those stories and honor the women who bring them to life.

Submit

Submit your work to the California Woman Film Festival on FilmFreeway and let your story be seen, honored, and remembered.

Submit Your Work

Winners

Session One (soon ..)

you can find the winners of the first session here

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can submit films to the festival?

While the festival highlights and celebrates the work of women filmmakers, it is not mandatory for a film to be made by women. We welcome all filmmakers who are passionate about telling compelling, impactful stories that center around the experiences, voices, and creativity of women.

How can I submit my film?

You can submit your film through FilmFreeway, our official submission platform. Simply create an account on FilmFreeway, upload your film, and follow the submission instructions for the California Woman Film Festival.

Is this festival online?

Yes, the California Woman Film Festival is fully online. All selected films will be showcased digitally, allowing audiences from all over the world to view and engage with the work, no matter where they are located.

Where can I find the submission deadline?

The submission deadline for the festival can be found on our FilmFreeway page. Please visit our FilmFreeway page to check for all submission dates, including early and final deadlines.

Is there a submission fee?

Yes, there is a submission fee. The fees vary depending on the type of submission (short film, feature film, etc.) and the submission deadline. Please check our FilmFreeway page for specific fee details.

What kind of films are you looking for?

We are looking for films that showcase the unique perspectives, experiences, and creative visions of women filmmakers. We encourage submissions that push boundaries, explore new narratives, and offer fresh, impactful stories that resonate with diverse audiences. We accept films in all genres, from documentary to fiction, experimental to animation.

Can I submit multiple films?

Absolutely! You can submit as many films as you like, as long as each submission meets our eligibility criteria and guidelines. Each film will need to be submitted separately through FilmFreeway.

Can I submit a film that has already been shown at other festivals?

Yes, we accept films that have been previously shown at other festivals. We believe in showcasing a wide range of work and are open to films that have had exposure elsewhere.

What is the eligibility requirement for the films?

Yes, we accept films that have been previously shown at other festivals. We believe in showcasing a wide range of work and are open to films that have had exposure elsewhere.

Do films need to be in English?

Films must be in English or have English subtitles. This ensures that a global audience can engage with and appreciate your work.

When will I know if my film is selected?

All filmmakers will be notified via email once the selection process is complete. Please be patient as we carefully review all submissions.

Contact

Email Us

contact@californiawomenff.info