Get Ready for the 15th Annual McMinnville Short Film Festival: A Four-Day Extravaganza of Independent Cinema with Special Guest Director Michelle Garza Cervera and the Oregon premiere of the 2026 Oscar nominated “The Singers.”
The excitement is building as the McMinnville Short Film Festival (MSFF) gears up for an unforgettable celebration of independent cinema from February 26 to March 1, 2026. With a dazzling selection of 94 short films and four screenplay finalists representing over 15 countries, showcasing a rich array of Oregon and Pacific Northwest premieres that are sure to captivate audiences!
A standout event will include a spine-tingling evening dedicated to the horror genre, featuring acclaimed Director Michelle Garza Cervera, (“Huesera” and the 2025 “The Hand that Rocks the Cradle.” for Hulu.) The festival will host an engaging one-on-one discussion on “Horror Through the Female Lens,” where Michelle will share her unique creative process. Attendees will also have the opportunity to view a specially curated block of her extraordinary shorts that led to her winning debut feature at the Tribeca Film Festival.
Festival-goers will discover many highlights among the lineup including the Oregon premiere of the 2026 Oscar nominated charmer “The Singers” directed by Sam Davis. Additionally, two 2026 Oscar-shortlisted films will also be making their Oregon premieres – the fantasy horror “The Pearl Comb” directed Ali Cook, and the enchanting animation “Night Boots” directed Pierre-Luc Granjon. Also, “Pekewa,” by directors Woodrow Hunt and Olivia Camfield will make its world premiere in the Native American category after winning the MSFF $10k Indigenous Filmmaker Vision Grant with support from Oregon Film. Each film at the festival offers an exceptional experience that highlights the creativity of independent filmmakers and features both international and local talent.
In addition to film screenings, MSFF will present a series of dynamic panels designed to inspire and educate. Highlights include “Demystifying the Pitch Deck,” where industry experts will guide participants on crafting compelling presentations to captivate investors. A documentary filmmaking panel will feature guest filmmakers from this year’s lineup, discussing their experiences and insights. The “Power of Podcast IP” will also be explored, with a session led by Amber Rasmussen (Ex-Wives Undercover podcast/Paramount + docuseries) on how to build valuable intellectual property.
Festival attendees will be able to connect with filmmakers and industry guests during screenings and Q&A sessions, soak up invaluable insights from educational opportunities, and network with fellow cinephiles in intimate settings. Set against the stunning backdrop of Oregon’s wine country, the McMinnville Short Film Festival is a chance to be immersed in a vibrant community passionate about emerging voices in cinema.
Single screening tickets and all-access passes are available now! For festival lineup, film synopses and to how to buy tickets, visit www.mcminnvillefilmfest.org
Contact:
Heather Older
Executive Director
McMinnville Short Film Festival
310.497.4784
[email protected]
