Michigan Student Film Festival

Open to all Michigan’s K-12 filmmakers, the Michigan Student Film Festival is unique in the nation for providing a public venue for the work of students as well as giving recognition and significant awards to young media artists. DAFT is proud to present The Michigan Student Film Festival, now in its 53rd year.

DAFT recognizes that the restrictions of COVID has placed districts and classrooms in difficult circumstances. We encourage all students to submit entries with the understanding DAFT judges will be supportive given the circumstances.

All entries will receive judges’ feedback. Entries will be placed in four categories (Merit, Honor, Excellence & Best-in-Show) with a special screening of Best of Show selections at streaming on DAFT’s website and via Facebook Live. Due to COVID safety protocol we have once again had to cancel the on-site screening at the Detroit Institute of Art’s historic Detroit Film Theatre. A free program at the screening (later available online as a pdf) will also include all entries and their placements.

Recognized by the American Film Institute as the longest-running K-12 student film festival in the nation, the Michigan Student Film Festival was founded by the non-profit DAFT (Digital Arts, Film and Television) as a showcase for Michigan students to demonstrate their skills and to network with one another and industry professionals.