Every year, the Durango community comes together to celebrate the spirit and ingenuity of independent cinema. Earlier this month from March 2-6, the 17th annual Durango Independent Film Festival showcased over 100 new independent pictures against the picturesque backdrop of southwestern Colorado.

Returning to in-person programming, the reputed filmmaker’s festival screened an impressive and eclectic mix of narrative features, documentaries, and short films. There were also illuminating coffee talks with the participating filmmakers, intimate and emotional panels with industry veterans, and even a hands-on screenwriting workshop with Liz Tuccillo (Sex and the City, Divorce). There were also brilliant post-screening Q&As, some of which moved both the director and audience to tears. 

In addition to parties throughout the week, the festival also hosted nightly gatherings in the private filmmaker’s lounge with complimentary beverages—including their own festival beer brewed by SKA Brewing.

The week was filled with passion and praise, and we’re excited to continue this long local tradition of engaging with art in our community. 

Standout Films

Ferryman by Darren Bender — Best Narrative Feature
Marvelous and the Black Hole by Kate Tsang — Best Narrative Feature (Audience Award)
To Which We Belong by Pamela Boll and Lindsay Richardson — Best Documentary
ON/OFF by Nicolas Villarreal — Best Animated Short
ALA KACHUU – Take and Run by Maria Brendle — Best Short (Audience Award), Honorable Mention: Live Action Narrative Short