Mystic Film Festival is a grassroots celebration of independent filmmaking that brings together storytellers, artists, and audiences in a shared love of cinema. Showcasing feature-length and short narrative films and documentaries from around the world, the festival creates a space where diverse voices can be heard and meaningful conversations can take root. Through screenings, filmmaker Q&As, workshops, and community events, we aim to connect people through the power of story and the craft of filmmaking.

Now in its ninth year, the festival will take place September 24 – 27, 2026, across venues in Mystic, Connecticut, and Westerly, Rhode Island. Our cornerstone venue, Mystic Luxury Cinemas in Olde Mistick Village, hosts opening night, which proudly features films made by local filmmakers and celebrates the talent within our own community. The festival closes with our annual awards celebration, honoring standout independent films in every category. This year, we are expanding our submission categories to welcome an even wider range of stories and filmmakers.

Our Screenplay Competition, now entering its sixth year, has become a highlight of the festival, shining a light on emerging screenwriters and fostering connections within the indie filmmaking community. With expanded categories, the competition continues to champion fresh voices and original storytelling. Winners will be announced live at the festival, underscoring our commitment to supporting creators at every stage of the filmmaking process.

Founded by local filmmakers and artists, Mystic Film Festival was created to nurture New England talent, champion films made in Connecticut, and bring unique independent voices from around the world to our coastal community.