Dear Timothy,
In the Spotlight this week is the 9th Annual Seattle True Independent Film Festival(STIFF), celebrating films that push boundaries and defy convention. The festival aims to discover the hidden gems of the indie film scene, so each film submitted to STIFF is guaranteed to be viewed by at least three members of the festival's programming team. STIFF's programmers are committed to finding the most unique voices and compelling stories regardless of style, format, genre, or length. STIFF does not allow its sponsors or theater owners to censor its lineup, nor will the festival allow runtime or premiere requirements to keep a great film out of the program.
The festival boasts a passionate Seattle audience that appreciates a wide variety of films, including cause-oriented documentaries and international works. STIFF also enthusiastically supports local Washington films, which comprise approximately a quarter of the program each season. It is this diversity of offerings, coupled with wild parties, robust opportunities for distribution, and exciting discoveries from the alternative music scene, that led IndieWire to declare that STIFF "is more than a simple affront to the establishment," and that it "has solidified a more complicated identity."
STIFF presents the coveted STIFFY Award as well as more than $2,500 USD combined in cash prizes to the winners of Best Narrative Feature, Best Documentary Feature, Best Animated Film, and Best Student Film. The festival also provides guest passes granting admission to screenings, parties, and events to all submitting filmmakers, whether or not their film is accepted as part of the festival's program.

UPCOMING DEADLINE November 1, 2012 - Regular Deadline
MISSION AND OBJECTIVE The Seattle True Independent Film Festival is dedicated to the exhibition of independent, underground, experimental, and zero-budget films. The festival endeavors to provide cultural exchange and educational opportunities by bringing a diverse selection of films to the area and providing a place for discussion between local and visiting filmmakers and the public.
MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL STIFF is pleased to offer many networking opportunities for local and visiting filmmakers. The festival's legendary opening night screening and after-party always extend late into the night, and is just one of the many opportunities where filmmakers can mingle with festival programmers from other regional events, online distributors, or other industry players interested in discovering new talents. Other notable events include "Cartoons and Bloody Marys," a Saturday morning celebration of weird animated films, and the closing night party - last year's was STIFF Prom, hosted in a former schoolhouse.
If you think your film may be too outlandish, too bold, or too challenging for the traditional festival circuit, it will likely find a home at STIFF. Submit your film to the Seattle True Independent Film Festival today!
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