SUBMIT YOUR WORK TO CINEQUEST

Organizationally set in the home of the world's most influential media technology companies (Apple, Cisco, Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, LinkedIn, Occulus etc.) CQFF showcases premier films, renowned and emerging artists, and breakthrough technology empowering global connectivity between creators, innovators and audiences. CQFF has led the world in its showcase and implementation of the technologies that have revolutionized film making, exhibition and distribution. CQFF's blend of the artist and innovator gains focus through its Maverick Awards. Its Maverick Spirit Awards recognizes artists (Harrison Ford, Nicolas Cage, Elle Fanning, J.J. Abrams, Tatiana Maslany, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Bill Nighy, Sir Ben Kingsley, Rosario Dawson, Spike Lee, James Franco, Neil Gaiman, and Sir Ian McKellen are among the guest recipients). Its Maverick Innovator Award recognizes technologists (including Martin Cooper, father of the cell phone, and Steve Wozniak, Co-founder of Apple Inc.). A Maverick stands apart from the crowd willing to create and innovate from a place of personal yet global vision.

Cinequest connects artists, innovators, media, and audiences as people converge to experience a potent mix of immersive stories from around the globe and breakthrough technologies. Yet, Cinequest's stellar reputation not only hinges on its knack for creating a powerful line-up, but also for securing distribution for many of its honored filmmakers. Netflix, IFC Films, Amazon, MSNBC Films, Oscilloscope, Sony Pictures, Magnolia Pictures, Kino-Lorber, eOne, Lionsgate, PBS, and HBO are just a few of the many that have signed deals with some of Cinequest's success stories. Cinequest Distribution has also successfully released 85 Film Festival favorites.

Also, as an Academy-qualifying festival for the short film categories, Cinequest is proud to honor the winners of its Best Short Narrative and Best Short Animation prizes with a shot at every filmmaker's dream...Oscar gold.

"This festival is one that sets the trends and is actually ahead of the trends. Other festivals are copying Cinequest; I see it all the time."—Chris Gore (Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide)

Exhibiting unique social and artistic visions from around the globe, Cinequest's dynamic festival engages audiences in thought-provoking dialogue, giving film artists and film lovers alike an opportunity to connect. Furthermore, Cinequest provides cutting edge technology and movie-making forums to empower professionals and students.

"What unites them all under the festival's big tent is clear: Being a part of Cinequest is not to follow industry trends, but to witness the moment they're being set."—MovieMaker (Max Weinstein)

"I've been submitting to Cinequest since 2013. The Cinequest judges' feedback has always been top-notch. I had a fantastic experience attending this year. The producers and staff do an amazing job. It's incredible...I'm over the moon to be working with The Solution and with the crew at CAA. ” — Jeremy Rush, Cinequest Feature Winner, WHEELMAN (Sold to Netflix )

Past Competition writer Matthew Dixon, with his script, THE GLASS HOTEL (optioned by HBO), recalls his experience: "Writers need all the support they can get and Cinequest gave it in abundance. Not only at the festival, with conferences and events for the writers, but long afterwards, when you're back at the desk and find an email from one of the devoted people at Cinequest in your box. When they get behind you, they stay behind you and continue to do everything they can to help push your project forward."

Amidst the energy and excitement of the festival, the Cinequest Screenwriting Competition empowers creative and innovative writers with the opportunity to interact with producers and industry professionals from around the world. Finalists will be honored during the Cinequest Writers Celebration, a day filled with a dynamic collection of Writer Meet Producer events, Business of Writing forums, Pitch Training, VIP Writers Lunch, and awards ceremony announcing the winners of the competition. The prestigious Maverick Spirit Award will also be presented to a renowned writer during the Celebration. Past honorees include: J.J. Abrams, Neil Gaiman, Darren Star, Lawrence Kasdan, Chuck Palahniuk, Michael Arndt, and Diablo Cody.