Join us for an evening of eye-opening entertainment as we celebrate the art of truly independent cinema in Charlotte, North Carolina and showcase the very best of original short films from around the Carolinas and beyond!
Recognizing the contributions of independent filmmakers from all around the world, with a strong emphasis on locally and regionally produced short films, the Stranger Days Independent Film Festival strives to build community and establish positive connections by offering an outlet to artists often overlooked by the mainstream and providing viewers with an interactive experience in a diverse environment that is both welcoming and inclusive for all people.
The event will feature over ten hours of film screenings over two days, an awards ceremony honoring the very best in show, and a fully-interactive film mixer afterparty featuring a full bar, hookah lounge, food trucks, and more in a fun, friendly, and inclusive environment.
All award winners will receive an official award certificate, with the grand prize winner of "Best in Show" also receiving a custom-engraved trophy.
Winners will be selected for the following categories:
- Best in Show (overall best picture)
- Best Genre Shorts (Comedy, Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Suspense, etc.)
- Best Documentary (any length)
- Best International Film (filmed outside the USA)
- Best Regional Film (filmed in NC/SC, by NC/SC filmmakers)
- Best LGBT Short (directed/written by and/or focused on LGBT issues)
- Best Micro-Short (films with a total runtime of 5 minutes or less)
- Best Arthouse/Underground Short (for art, underground, and/or experimental films that don't fit into any traditional genre)
- Audience Choice Award (as voted on by attendees during the festival - any screened film is eligible)
We are an Official IMDb-Recognized film festival, and will list all award winners and nominees on our page following the event.