MISSION
Our mission is to champion creative independence in visual storytelling in all its
forms, and to foster a culture of inclusion. We support a global community of artists
and audiences who embody diversity, innovation, curiosity and uniqueness of vision.
WHO WE ARE
We help filmmakers make their movies, build an audience for their projects and work
to diversify the film industry. With over 250 annual screenings and events, we provide
access to a network of like-minded artists who are driving creativity in entertainment.
WHAT WE DO
We produce the Film Independent Spirit Awards, recognizing the finest achievements
of American independent filmmakers, Film Independent Presents, a year-round program
offering screenings, conversations and other unique cinematic experiences including
the acclaimed Live Read series.
Our Artist Development programs provide labs for selected writers, directors, producers
and documentary filmmakers and offer year-round networking opportunities. Project
Involve is our signature program dedicated to fostering the careers of talented filmmakers
from communities traditionally underrepresented in the film industry.
Anyone passionate about film can become a Member, whether you are a filmmaker, industry
professional or a film lover.
OUR HISTORY
In 1981, Gregory Nava and a small band of directors, writers and producers began gathering
regularly to share creative ideas and discuss ways to increase resources for independent
filmmakers.
The non-profit, member-driven organization Independent Feature Project (IFP)/West
soon emerged from these meetings with the mission to cultivate the careers of independent
filmmakers, build larger audiences for independent film and champion diversity in
the entertainment industry. National recognition quickly followed when the organization
took on production of the Spirit Awards in the late 1980s and the LA Film Festival
in 2000. In time, IFP/West became Film Independent — a more accurate banner for the
spectrum of services and programs the organization had expanded to include.
Today, Film Independent encompasses a broad community of individuals who appreciate
and sustain artist-driven filmmaking.
“About,” Film Independent, accessed March 14, 2024, https://www.filmindependent.org/about/.
