The New Hampshire Film Festival (NHFF), launched in 2001 as the New Hampshire Film Expo, has grown into a flagship cultural event for New England. After relocating to Portsmouth in 2004 and adopting its current name in 2007, NHFF expanded its reach and influence within the film industry.
Held each October, NHFF presents over 100 films, including narratives, documentaries, and shorts from both domestic and international filmmakers. A key highlight is its New Hampshire Day, dedicated to celebrating the state’s vibrant film industry and showcasing the work of local talent.
NHFF’s screenings take place in historic Portsmouth venues, such as The Music Hall, a beautifully restored Victorian theater, and the Moffatt-Ladd House, a National Historic Landmark. These distinctive locations provide a unique blend of cinematic art and regional heritage.
In 2021, NHFF earned the prestigious status of an Academy Award®-qualifying festival for the Short Film Awards. Recipients of the festival’s Live Action Shorts Jury Award and Animation Shorts Jury Award are eligible for Oscar consideration without the standard theatrical run, enhancing the festival’s impact on filmmakers’ careers.
NHFF has a track record of recognizing and premiering exceptional films. In 2014, the short film The Phone Call, screened at NHFF, won the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film. In 2015, Robert Eggers’ debut feature, The Witch, received the festival’s Best Feature Award, highlighting NHFF’s role in identifying emerging talent.
NHFF honors cinematic excellence through its iconic granite awards, affectionately dubbed the “Grannys.” These weighty trophies symbolize the festival’s dedication to celebrating outstanding films, filmmakers, screenplays, and screenwriters, rooted in New Hampshire’s “Granite State” heritage.
Beyond its screenings, NHFF hosts panel discussions, workshops, and social events, creating a vibrant environment for networking and collaboration. Its commitment to showcasing diverse voices and nurturing industry connections solidifies its reputation as a vital contributor to independent cinema.
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