15 AUG 2026 //
PORTLAND UNDER THE STARS
FILMS + SCREENPLAYS
NARRATIVE
COMEDY
HORROR/SCI-FI
DOCUMENTARY
MUSIC VIDEO
ANIMATION
WHERE TO STAY
Book your stay with our official festival hotel partners — discounted rates available for Portland Under the Stars guests.
WHERE IS THE FEST
The Mission Theater, a historic gem in the heart of Portland, offers a unique blend of vintage charm and modern amenities. Known for its intimate setting, craft beers, and signature drinks, it’s the perfect venue to showcase independent cinema and connect with fellow creatives.
FESTIVAL INFO
Celebrate the magic of independent cinema at the Mission Theater, where innovative storytelling and bold creativity shine in Portland’s vibrant artistic setting. Join us for a night of diverse voices, unique perspectives, and unforgettable films.
Our panel of experienced judges evaluates submissions based on originality, storytelling, and quality. Projects with a cumulative rating of 8.0 or higher (out of 10) are considered for inclusion.
Entrants will be notified approximately 30 days prior to the festival date, giving ample time for travel and arrangements.
Selected participants will receive:
A complimentary VIP badge for the event.
Official selection laurels.
Eligibility for awards and trophies.
Promotion on our website and social media channels.
We may issue deadline waivers if programming is still open, but no fee waivers are offered. Last Call rates will apply.
The festival is held at the historic McMenamins Mission Theater, located at 1624 NW Glisan St, Portland, OR 97209. Enjoy craft beers, signature drinks, and classic movie snacks like popcorn and candy.
Yes! We’ll have a professional photographer capturing red carpet moments. Photos will be available on our website within a week after the event.
If you are a filmmaker or screenwriter connected to a project being screened, you’ll be invited on stage for a brief Q&A session after the screening block.
Download links for "Official Selection" and "Winner" laurels will be included in your notification email.
Closed captions are not required for submissions to our festival, so not all films in the lineup will include them. If a filmmaker provides captions (either embedded in the film or as part of the submission), we will screen the version with captions. However, this is at the discretion of each individual filmmaker.
At this time, the venue does not provide closed captioning devices, and we are unable to guarantee captioned screenings across the board. Accessibility remains an ongoing priority for us as we grow, and we appreciate your understanding.
If you're a filmmaker who would like captions included in your screening, please email us with an updated file or let us know directly.
There is no official dress code for attendees — come as you are! That said, the event does feature a red carpet, step-and-repeat banner, and professional photography throughout the evening. Many filmmakers and guests choose to dress up for photos, and our staff will be in formal attire.
Whether you go glam or keep it casual, you’ll fit right in.
We recommend staying at McMenamins Kennedy School, a charming hotel located just 1.5 miles from the venue. It features unique rooms, multiple bars, and a cozy on-site theater.
Some films include mature (R-rated) content. Attendees under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Attendees can vote via a secure link for the Audience Choice trophies awarded to one top film per screening block. Votes from non-attendees are disqualified.
Yes, all attendees are welcome to join the award ceremony. Note that physical awards are not mailed, but digital certificates will be sent via email.
Our panel of experienced judges evaluates submissions based on originality, storytelling, and quality. Projects with a cumulative rating of 8.0 or higher (out of 10) are considered for inclusion.
Entrants will be notified approximately 30 days prior to the festival date, giving ample time for travel and arrangements.
Selected participants will receive:
A complimentary VIP badge for the event.
Official selection laurels.
Eligibility for awards and trophies.
Promotion on our website and social media channels.
We may issue deadline waivers if programming is still open, but no fee waivers are offered. Last Call rates will apply.
The festival is held at the historic McMenamins Mission Theater, located at 1624 NW Glisan St, Portland, OR 97209. Enjoy craft beers, signature drinks, and classic movie snacks like popcorn and candy.
Yes! We’ll have a professional photographer capturing red carpet moments. Photos will be available on our website within a week after the event.
If you are a filmmaker or screenwriter connected to a project being screened, you’ll be invited on stage for a brief Q&A session after the screening block.
Download links for "Official Selection" and "Winner" laurels will be included in your notification email.
Closed captions are not required for submissions to our festival, so not all films in the lineup will include them. If a filmmaker provides captions (either embedded in the film or as part of the submission), we will screen the version with captions. However, this is at the discretion of each individual filmmaker.
At this time, the venue does not provide closed captioning devices, and we are unable to guarantee captioned screenings across the board. Accessibility remains an ongoing priority for us as we grow, and we appreciate your understanding.
If you're a filmmaker who would like captions included in your screening, please email us with an updated file or let us know directly.
There is no official dress code for attendees — come as you are! That said, the event does feature a red carpet, step-and-repeat banner, and professional photography throughout the evening. Many filmmakers and guests choose to dress up for photos, and our staff will be in formal attire.
Whether you go glam or keep it casual, you’ll fit right in.
We recommend staying at McMenamins Kennedy School, a charming hotel located just 1.5 miles from the venue. It features unique rooms, multiple bars, and a cozy on-site theater.
Some films include mature (R-rated) content. Attendees under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Attendees can vote via a secure link for the Audience Choice trophies awarded to one top film per screening block. Votes from non-attendees are disqualified.
Yes, all attendees are welcome to join the award ceremony. Note that physical awards are not mailed, but digital certificates will be sent via email.
FAQ
SUBMIT TO OUR PARTNERS
