Each year, MovieMaker Magazine publishes a list of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World.” The list is selected by a committee of international filmmakers with diverse experience across global festivals.
This year, the Ouray International Film Festival has been named to the list for the first time.
“We have immense respect for MovieMaker Magazine and the way that Tim Molloy and his team champion both festivals and filmmakers,” says OIFF co-director Jake Abell. “It means a lot to us to be recognized by this publication that we admire so much and this panel of artists.”
Among the Coolest Film Festivals in the World
OIFF is one of only two Colorado festivals to make the Top 25 list this year. Other festivals featured this year include the Santa Fe International Film Festival, PROOF Film Festival, and Austin Film Festival, as well as festivals from Switzerland, Argentina, Spain, and Canada.
“We’re honored to be included in the company of amazing global organizations that we’ve loved for years,” adds OIFF co-director Jared LaCroix. “And we’re grateful for the audiences and artists who have made us into the community we are today.”
A Film Festival Rooted in the Ouray Community
For Abell, who graduated from Ouray High School in 2009, the festival’s inclusion on the top 25 list feels personal. “Making the list is a testament to all the incredible individuals and institutions that have supported us in Ouray,” says Abell. “From the city government to our volunteer teams to the staff of the historic Wright Opera House, this town has been there for us from the beginning.”
What Sets the Best Film Festivals Apart? Filmmaker Hospitality and Connection
In addition to its strong community roots, OIFF is known as a place where filmmakers can connect with an intimate network of industry colleagues in the festival’s remote mountain setting. “We started this festival because we adore artists,” says LaCroix. “Last year, we welcomed filmmakers who traveled to our festival from Mumbai, New York, and everywhere in between. We cook for our artists, we provide robust lodging and travel support, and we hang out in the mountains. And we keep the scale of the festival small to maintain that atmosphere of deep hospitality and connection with audiences.”
More Recognition for the Ouray International Film Festival
OIFF also appeared on MovieMaker’s list of “50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee” in 2026. Read the original MovieMaker announcement.
Filmmakers can still submit to next year’s festival through March 22 on FilmFreeway. The 2027 festival will take place June 18-21, 2027 with limited discount passes released this December.