Welcome to the 2024 Santa Paula Film Festival, where creativity knows no bounds and storytelling takes center stage! As a celebration of cinematic ingenuity, we proudly champion the diverse voices of independent filmmakers, both from Ventura County and beyond. Nestled in the heart of Santa Paula and the Heritage Valley, our festival serves as a vibrant platform for emerging talents, offering a spotlight to local artists while fostering a community that embraces the art of indie filmmaking. From thought-provoking narratives to captivating documentaries, we believe that indie films enrich our cultural landscape, sparking conversations, and forging connections that resonate far beyond the silver screen. Join us as we embark on a cinematic journey filled with inspiration, imagination, and the boundless spirit of independent storytelling.

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Ventura County, Santa Paula stands as a beacon of charm and heritage in the heart of the Heritage Valley. Surrounded by the idyllic towns of Fillmore and Piru, this vibrant region boasts a rich tapestry of history, agriculture, and community spirit. From its historic downtown adorned with vintage storefronts to its sprawling orchards and scenic vistas, Santa Paula encapsulates the essence of small-town allure. Together with Fillmore’s quaint ambiance and Piru’s rustic charm, the Heritage Valley offers a sanctuary for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting visitors to explore its hidden gems, embrace its cultural diversity, and bask in the warmth of its welcoming communities.

As the birthplace of numerous cinematic gems, Santa Paula holds a storied legacy in the chronicals of film history. From its rolling hillsides to its quaint streets, this charming locale has long captured the imaginations of filmmakers seeking the perfect backdrop for their stories. With its timeless appeal and scenic vistas, Santa Paula became a favored destination for early Hollywood productions, setting the stage for iconic moments that have since become woven into the fabric of cinema. From the silent era classics like “Robin Hood” (1922), which featured Santa Paula’s rugged landscapes, to the unforgettable scenes of “East Lynne” (1931) shot against its rustic architecture, the town has played an integral role in shaping the cinematic landscape of its time. As we pay homage to this illustrious past, the Santa Paula Film Festival stands as a testament to the enduring allure of this picturesque town, continuing its legacy as a cherished destination for storytellers and cinephiles alike.

The Santa Paula Film Festival is a trademark of The House of MAGIC Foundations for the Arts, Inc. A 501(c)3 Charitable Organization registered in Santa Paula, California.

Submissions Rules for Santa Paula Film Festival are as follows:

1. All entries must be submitted via www.filmfreeway.com.
2. Films that are publicly streaming or broadcasted in the United States are not eligible. (we don’t want films that people can already see online)
3. Finished projects that have been completed in 2024 or 2023 are eligible for the Fall 2024 festival.
4. Indie filmmakers may submit more than one entry, but each entry must be submitted separately, and not all entries may be selected.
5. We do not accept music videos or commercials.
6. Films not produced in English must have English subtitles.
7. Not all submitted films will be selected. If your film is not selected, registration fees are not refundable.
8. If your film contains, extreme violence, language, or nudity, you must disclose this during submission. This will not make you ineligible, but it may limit your ability for viewing.
9. Not all films may be eligible for competition.
10. The selection committee’s and judges’ decisions are final.
11. We reserve the right to make changes to festival rules without prior notice.
12. If selected, you will be required to provide:
    1. Digital pictures from the film and a large format digital copy of the film’s poster
    2. The film’s synopsis and a short bio of the film’s creator
    3. A movie trailer for the film
    4. An HD version of the film that can be played in digital format
    5. You may be required to provide a DCP copy of the film
13. Filmmaker assumes all costs associated with delivering said film