St. Louis International Film Festival (SLIFF)
Missouri's most important film festival, held annually in November in St. Louis, with a comprehensive international program and strong documentary focus serving the Gateway City's film community.
Overview
The St. Louis International Film Festival (SLIFF) is Missouri's most important film festival. Founded in 1992 and held annually in November in St. Louis, the festival screens approximately 200 films from more than 50 countries over 10 days and is one of the Midwest's most comprehensive film events.
St. Louis's position at the geographic center of the United States -- famously symbolized by the Gateway Arch -- and its historically significant African American community and German-American cultural heritage give the festival a distinctive Midwestern perspective. The festival has developed particular strength in documentary programming and in representing films from underrepresented global regions.
Key Sections
- International Feature Program -- curated world cinema
- Documentary Competition -- nonfiction features competing for prizes
- Short Film Programs -- competitive and curated short films
- St. Louis Films -- films by St. Louis and Missouri filmmakers
- Special Screenings -- premieres and events
What Filmmakers Should Know
SLIFF accepts open submissions. For Missouri and Midwest filmmakers, the festival provides important regional exposure. The festival's November timing creates useful year-end momentum for films in awards consideration.
Major Awards
- Best Documentary -- jury prize
- Audience Award -- across categories
- St. Louis Film Award
Festival History
SLIFF was founded in 1992 and has operated continuously for over three decades, establishing itself as one of the most important film festivals in the American heartland.
See Also
For Midwest film culture, see Independent Filmmaking Strategies. For festival strategy, see Film Festival Strategy.
