INDIANAPOLIS — MovieMaker Magazine included two Indianapolis film festivals on its 2023 list of the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World.
Both Indy Shorts International Film Festival and the Heartland International Film Festival received high praise from film experts.
MovieMaker assembled their list from the expertise of their "Panel of Cool," commentary from filmmakers and film experts who share their experiences traveling to different film festivals.
"This film festival really cares about the filmmakers," Hanadi Elyan said on Heartland International Film Festival.
She goes on to state that the festival takes place in 'cool and modern places' in Indianapolis, mentioning hotspots like Bottleworks hotel and Living Room Theaters.
"The midwestern hospitality never stops," Elyan said.
The panel of cool equally appreciated Indy Shorts Film Festival, stating that the Heartland spinoff established 6 years ago, has quickly became a shorts destination.
"Not only do they have some strong programming, but from one filmmaker to another, they have a lot of prizes and a lot of prize money! It's incredible to see so many hardworking filmmakers get rewarded for some real cash," Camrus Johnson said.
Heartland Film was founded in 1991. They say their mission is to curate, promote and celebrate thoughtful and engaging films from diverse perspectives.
According to Heartland, the festival has presented $3.5 million in cash prizes — the largest total amount awarded by any film festival in North America.
If you'd like to attend this cool festival, Indy Shorts kicks off this month from July 18 through Sunday, July 23. There will be screenings at Living Room Theaters, Newfields and virtually. You can get tickets and view the film schedule here.
Here, you can check out MovieMaker's full list of the coolest festivals in the U.S.
