A FILMMAKER-FIRST FESTIVAL BUILT ON COMMUNITY
Portland Under the Stars was founded with one goal: to create the kind of film festival filmmakers genuinely want to attend.
Every official selection is more than a screening—it becomes part of an immersive festival experience featuring red carpet arrivals, live audience Q&A sessions, meaningful networking opportunities, and an awards celebration recognizing exceptional achievement in independent film and screenwriting.
Hosted at McMenamins Mission Theater, Portland Under the Stars brings together filmmakers, screenwriters, and film lovers from around the world while remaining deeply connected to Portland's vibrant creative community. Whether you're premiering your latest film or sharing your first screenplay, you'll find an audience that is engaged, supportive, and passionate about independent storytelling.
As an IMDb-accredited festival, Portland Under the Stars is committed to celebrating bold voices, fostering genuine creative connections, and providing filmmakers with a memorable experience both on and off the screen.
WHAT MAKES PUTS SPECIAL
REVIEWS
Recognized as one of FilmFreeway's Best-Reviewed Film Festivals, all voted by our incredible selections.
2ND ANNUAL
Celebrating our second year championing independent films, screenplays, and emerging storytellers.
LIVE Q&As
Every screening block features filmmaker discussions, creating meaningful conversations between artists and audiences.
AUDIENCE CHOICE
Audience voting gives attendees a voice in recognizing standout films while adding excitement throughout the festival.
"Truly community driven! Great communication from the festival programmers! 10/10"
Jenny De La Fuente
"One of the highlights of our festival run. Great networking, great people, great films."
Costantino Ciminiello
" From the time you walk in til the after-party, good people and good times. Highly recommend!"
Ori Evans
Filmmaker First
We prioritize the creator experience, from communication to screening quality.
Live Q&As
Every block includes filmmaker Q&As to connect with the audience.
Meaningful Awards
Audience Choice and curated awards that actually matter.
More Than a Screening
Expect a full festival experience. Red carpet arrivals, live screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and a closing award ceremony that brings the entire community together. This isn’t a passive viewing—it’s an event.
Submit your film or screenplay and join us for the next edition of Portlan Under the Stars.