“We want this to be the children’s film festival, we want to be the first-putter’s film festival, we want to be the down-home film festival, we want to be the scientifically accurate film festival.” - Chuck Jonkel, IWFF Founder
Festival Dates: April 17-23, 2021
Every spring, this annual event draws industry, filmmakers, scientists, conservationists, and audiences to the heart of the Rockies for this long-standing Missoula tradition. Through diverse programming and community events, IWFF celebrates ethical wildlife and environmental filmmaking as well as emerging filmmakers.
Filmmakers can expect lively Q&A’s after every screening, engaging day-time programming including panels, dialogues and networking opportunities with top-notch filmmakers, fresh media makers and scientists working on the brink of discovery. The festival also hosts IWFF LABS, a highly competitive science-driven filmmaking intensive.
Films screen to packed theaters full of sharp audiences that want to learn more about themselves and the world we live in. IWFF is centered around stories that promote awareness, knowledge and an understanding of science, wildlife, and the humans that impact our world every day.
Founded in 1977 at the University of Montana IWFF is the first and longest-running event of its kind. In 2002, the festival purchased the historic Roxy Theater as its home. In 2013 The Roxy launched its year-round screening series and began extensive collaboration with the university, businesses, and community, serving a diverse, all-ages population with broad programming. A unique historic venue with incredible resources, The Roxy houses three cinema screens with HD projection, 35mm projection, state-of-the-art sound systems, two stages and amenities ideal for conferences, film festivals, and educational events. IWFF embraces its home inside The Roxy Theater and as the heart of the Missoula community.
Semifinalists will be announced for each category when the full lineup is announced.
Ultimately finalist films for each category are selected by the final jury and will receive awards at the close of the festival. Best of Festival, an Audience Award, and the Chuck Jonkel Legacy Award will also be honored at the Awards Ceremony.