Signal Film Festival
Submit your film on FilmFreeway! Regular deadline is April 10, 2026.
Signal Film Festival at Silver Branch Brewing Company is dedicated to the power of short-form storytelling, this includes films up to 10 minutes in length. We celebrate narrative, documentary, animation and more. In an age of constant noise, we look for the "Signal", those unique cinematic voices that cut through the static to deliver compelling, impactful, and innovative stories. Based in a community with a deep appreciation for the arts, our mission is to provide a high-visibility platform for emerging and established filmmakers to broadcast their vision to a live audience. Whether it’s a gripping drama, an insightful documentary, an experimental vision, or a lighthearted comedy, we believe that the most powerful messages often come in the shortest packages. Signal Film Festival is more than just a screening; it is a connection point for creators and film lovers to tune into the spirit of cinema.
The Brian Frankel Law Firm, DC Filmmakers, and Wheaton Film Festival are proud to host this year's event in partnership with the Silver Branch Brewing Company in Silver Spring, Maryland to benefit the Alzheimer's Association National Capital Area Chapter. Through this collaboration, we aim to highlight the importance of storytelling and to foster community, awareness, and support.
Attendance is required for all accepted films. Accepted films MUST have at least one in-person representative attend the Festival on May 31, 2026. Filmmakers should submit through FilmFreeway.
Filmmakers may enter any film that is 10 minutes or less in total duration. Films submitted must be under 1gb in file size, saved in .mp4 format, playable on a Mac computer, and have professional quality audio.
If a film is accepted, entrant will be solely responsible for delivering their exhibition video files in advance via FilmFreeway or shared cloud drive. After you submit, please check your FilmFreeway online account to see if your film has been received.
Film Submission Guidelines:
Save the Date May 31, 2026
Immersive Screenings: Films will be showcased in a curated program designed to spark conversation. We prioritize technical excellence to ensure participating films are seen and heard exactly as intended.
A Culinary Experience: This is not a concession-stand festival. Filmmakers and attendees will enjoy a selection of hearty, Bavarian-style inspired food and Silver Branch’s own world-class craft beers, making for a multi-sensory evening of "cinema and suds."
Voices of Impact: In our commitment to the Alzheimer’s Association, we feature guest speakers who bridge the gap between storytelling and real-world advocacy. Attendees will experience firsthand how film can be a powerful tool for social change and community awareness.
Networking & Connection: With no "velvet ropes," the festival is designed for interaction. Whether it’s during the post-screening Q&As or over a pint afterward, everyone will have the opportunity to mingle with fellow creators, local art patrons, and representatives from our charity partners.
Awards Ceremony: The night concludes with an awards presentation celebrating the best films of the night.
What to Expect:
Get tickets on Eventbrite! Festival happens on May 31, 2026.
