Independent cinema.
Southern soul.
A four day celebration of independent cinema grounded in Southern hospitality set in the heart of downtown Franklin, just 30 minutes south of Nashville, in a walkable, intimate setting. Where storytelling, community, and culture come together.
Four
50+
Feb 25-28
11-15-2026
Built at the intersection of independent film and meaningful storytelling
The Franklin Film Festival is rooted in the spirit of its community. Set in the heart of one of the world’s great music and art regions, it brings together bold voices and Southern heritage in a way that feels both elevated and deeply personal. Here, Franklin’s storied culture isn’t a backdrop—it’s part of the experience.
We offer something lasting: genuine connection, thoughtful curation, and an intimate, walkable downtown where audiences, artists, and neighbors naturally come together.
Live scores performed with screenings
Documentaries about the craft of composition
Panels with filmmakers and musicians
What we screen
Storytelling with a purpose, films that empower the community, and shared experiences that connect us beyond the screening.
Tennessee Spotlight
Regional voices and emerging Middle Tennessee filmmakers.
Features
Long-form independent voices from around the world.
Documentaries
Films that capture the real-world changemakers and work they do that moved us most.
Shorts
Concentrated storytelling that’s some of the most daring work at the festival.
Student films
The next generation of cinematic storytellers.
A blend of Americana culture and roots music influence
We sit in the backyard of the world's great Americana and roots music tradition. That culture runs through our programming—from documentary to narrative, opening night to the closing party. You can expect music-to-film crossover panels. Filmmaker conversations with musicians. And programming that dervies from what we love most about Franklin.
The full festival experience
The theater is just the beginning. We transform galleries, streets, and unexpected spaces into places where cinema breathes and moves beyond the screen.
Filmmaker
Q&A
Industry
Panels
Downtown Franklin
Come celebrate our 10 year anniversary as we embark on this new chapter of the Franklin Film Festival
We're accepting submissions across all categories. Early submitters become part of our founding story. This is the ground floor of a festival
This story needs founding supporters. Franklin Film Festival is a nonprofit.
Every dollar goes directly into building a permanent cultural anchor for Middle Tennessee, a home for independent cinema, and a platform for the filmmakers who deserve to be heard.
Screenings in restored theaters with genuine character
Conversations that linger long after the film ends
A community built around stories that matter
To celebrate independent filmmakers, modern storytelling, and the community of Middle Tennessee, connecting artists and audiences in the soulful, historic city of Franklin.
Today we're passing the torch to you
Get early access to screenings, artist announcements, and festival news.