Photo courtesy of Oak Cliff Film Festival by Zack Huggins

The Oak Cliff Film Festival wrapped up its 15th year with record growth, award-winning independent films and a continued focus on celebrating our neighborhood. 

Held July 30 through Aug. 2, the four-day festival welcomed filmmakers and viewers from across the country to venues throughout Oak Cliff. The 2026 event garnered a 48% increase in revenue over last year’s festival, while ticket sales have grown 70% over the past five years, according to a press release. 

This year’s theme, “A Neighborhood Film Festival,” highlighted Oak Cliff as more than just the festival’s background. Screenings, live music and special events were held at neighborhood venues, including local restaurants and businesses. Festival organizers said the event’s continued growth also benefits neighborhood businesses by bringing visitors to dine, shop and spend time throughout the community during the four-day event. 

Filmmakers from across the country praised the festival’s welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community.

“I love the tagline of the festival this year, ‘A Neighborhood Film Festival,’ because you genuinely feel that,” director Matt Perniciaro said in a press release. “This is absolutely the epitome of a cinema-loving film community and a cinema-loving neighborhood.”

The festival concluded by recognizing outstanding films selected by a jury of filmmakers, producers and industry professionals.

In the shorts competitions, Draft Paper won the Animation Shorts award, while The Sword of the Sun received a special jury mention. Squall Mouth earned the Texas Student Shorts award, and Michael received a special jury mention.

Baba won the Documentary Shorts category, with Monster Slayer earning a special jury mention. In Narrative Shorts, EP Project took home the top prize, while Mr. Adidos received a special jury mention.

Among feature-length films, The Last Critic won Best Documentary Feature, with Tracers receiving a special jury mention. Cramps! A Period Piece earned the festival’s Narrative Feature award.

As the festival closes its milestone 15th year, organizers say its growth reflects a rising national recognition. By pairing independent cinema with local venues and businesses, the festival continues to celebrate both filmmakers and the community that has supported it since its inception.