As the famous backdrop for the film Field of Dreams, Dubuque is also becoming the destination for independent filmmakers and moviegoers from around the world. The producers of the Julien Dubuque International Film Festival announce that the dates for this year’s Festival are confirmed for April 20-24, 2022. In its 11th year, the JDIFF will be held at the historic Julien Dubuque Hotel and other locations on along the downtown main street corridor. , featuring a red carpet awards ceremony, panels, workshops and other networking events for filmmakers. Tickets cost between $10 and $150 and are available for purchase on the Festival website.
The Festival is presented by Renovo Media Group, Runde Auto Group and TH Media.
According to JDIFF Executive Director Susan Gorrell, what makes JDIFF unique is its personal touch. She says, “We communicate directly with filmmakers who submit and are accepted into the festival. We are easily accessible and believe that communication is extremely important. We make sure filmmakers know what to expect when they come to JDIFF. We are well known for our communication.”
Not to mention the Midwestern charm and hometown vibe of the Dubuque community. The festival takes place along the Mississippi River, and the majority of events are all within walking distance, with multiple screenings, parties, great food, and many locals who are fully supportive of the festival. Gorrell says, “The people of Dubuque love the film festival and love meeting the filmmakers. They are very welcoming and love participating in the Q&A after each movie.
With the experience of independent filmmakers in mind, the Festival offers a comprehensive program of events, panels and workshops over 5 days, providing plenty of opportunities for filmmakers to come together and learn, as well as network. with various people in the film industry.
Before the pandemic, the Festival had more than 6,000 people present, with more than 130 film screenings over 5 days. MovieMaker Magazine calls JDIFF one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” AND one of the “50 Best Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee”. FilmFreeway.com calls JDIFF “one of the top 100 rated festivals in the world”.
The Festival’s boutique vibe has a lot to do with the CEO’s vision. She says, “When I took over 8 years ago, I wanted to make the festival a place where filmmakers and attendees could not only enjoy incredible programming, but also be able to network, learn and communicate. I think JDIFF definitely did it.”
JDIFF receives approximately 1500 submissions each year and accepts 120 films. The Festival also awards 8 prizes and cash prizes each year, with a total value of over $35,000 in cash and benefits.
The deadline for submitting films for 2022 has passed. Submissions for JDIFF 2023 will open in August 2022.
Festival tickets cost between $10 and $150 for a full access pass. Check the website for tickets and the full festival schedule.
Learn more about JDIFF
Since 2012, the Julien Dubuque International Film Festival has been dedicated to the enrichment of the community and the rapprochement of cultures through education and the promotion of the arts through independent cinema. JDIFF recognizes emerging filmmakers from around the world and supports diverse and cause-related films.
For more info: https://julienfilmfest.com/
