"Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World" - MovieMaker Magazine
Nestled among towering mountains and golden aspen trees, our intimate and free-spirited film festival inspires and awakens attendees through an engaging setting of quality screenings, walkable venues, stimulating discussions, and authentic connections.
In alignment with our organizational mission, we curate bold, visceral, high-quality films that activate real emotion and invite personal, social, and environmental transformation.
At the Crested Butte Film Festival, we believe in the transformative power of film. Founded in 2010 by two adventurous filmmakers and film-lovers, our organization is on a mission to move people to move the world.
Always held during the last weekend of September, the four-day event encompasses three walkable venues and the screening of 90 films spanning the genres of narrative, documentary, outdoor adventure, children’s, and short films. Additional programming sprinkled throughout the festival includes panel discussions, lively parties, and other social networking events.
Attending filmmakers are provided with an All-Access VIP Pass, lodging accommodations, and a bike to ride for the weekend (the preferred mode of transportation in our little mountain town).
At the Crested Butte Film Festival, you are sure to be inspired by the transformative power of stories while fostering incredible connections in an atmosphere of spontaneity fueled by great films, shared experiences, bikes, hikes, and magical mountain scenery.
"What. A. Festival. I’ve never had, and could not imagine a better film fest experience. From the organizers to the volunteers to the people that come to see the films, there simply isn’t a more authentic, excited and loving group of people anywhere else. Everything about this fest is conducive to having a great time and meeting great filmmakers. Not to mention, Crested Butte is one of the most stunning places to see in the country. You can’t really explain it, you just have to go”
— Hugo Cordova, Filmmaker
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
Genius. Artistry. Creation. A new way of telling a story. A location we’ve never seen. Something we’ve never thought of or imagined. And humor goes a long long way with us. Simply put, the best in narrative, documentary, short, outdoor adventure and children's films.
A FILMMAKER'S FESTIVAL
Known as a “filmmakers festival,” we strive to create an atmosphere of inspiration through well-attended screenings, high-quality programming, stimulating panel discussions, and opportunities for authentic engagement. We have a passion for discovering great first films and a desire to nurture the careers of young and emerging filmmakers. All venues are within easy walking distance and events are designed to foster lasting connections and partnerships among attendees, filmmakers, and industry professionals.
WHAT MAKES CRESTED BUTTE UNIQUE
Town: Crested Butte is a historic mining town turned tourist destination with world-class skiing, biking, and hiking.
Size: At just six by ten blocks with a year-round population of only 1,500 people, Crested Butte is a small town that's packed with local character.
Altitude: A true mountain destination at 8,885 feet above sea level.
Beauty: We're literally surrounded by mountains. Think epic panoramic vistas with snowcapped peaks and dazzling golden aspen trees.
Fun: Off the charts. Parties, bike parades, delicious food, craft rum, local brews, and plenty of magically spontaneous moments.
MISSION
Through the transformative power of film, Crested Butte Film Festival fosters connection and inspires creativity, cultural awareness and social action.
THANK YOU
Films have the power to bring people together which is now, more important than ever. Thank you for submitting your film to Crested Butte Film Festival. We’re excited to see it.
AWARDS AND PRIZES
AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD
BEST DOCUMENTARY FILM
BEST NARRATIVE FILM
BEST SHORT FILM - Narrative, Documentary and Comedic categories
SPECIAL JURY PRIZE
ACTNOW AWARD (call-to-action, monetary prize awarded to one nonprofit associated with film)
SPIRIT OF THE FESTIVAL AWARD
JURIED AWARDS
Each and every submitted film is considered for a Jury Award. Selected films are then shortlisted based on their genre and characteristics and sent to our Festival Jury. The Jury then awards films based on merit, innovation, and outstanding qualities.
AUDIENCE AWARD
A sure measure of success for filmmakers is winning the CBFF’s coveted Audience Choice Award. Solely determined by our audience, the Audience Choice Award is open to any screened entry and is determined by a weighted, tabulated-ratings ballot system on our festival app in conjunction with online trending and audience street reviews.
ACTNOW AWARD - ACTION & CHANGE TOGETHER
Our social action award - this is a cash award that goes to a nonprofit organization linked to a documentary film. If your film has a call-to-action component to it, and it is designated as an ActNow Film by the Crested Butte Film Festival it will be considered for this award.
2019 Recipient - SANTUARIO
2018 Recipient - LIFEBOAT
2017 Recipients - A PLASTIC OCEAN and BENDING THE ARC
2016 Recipient - NEWTOWN
2015 Recipient - RACING EXTINCTION
2014 Recipient - VIRUNGA
2013 Recipient - BLOOD BROTHER
2012 Recipient - BIDDER 70