Welcome to
Philadelphia Urban Film Festival
The Philadelphia Urban Film Festival (PUFF) is a vibrant celebration of storytelling from urban communities across the globe. Set in the culturally rich city of Philadelphia, PUFF shines a spotlight on filmmakers who explore the complexities of urban life, culture, and resilience.
Celebrating the Heart and Soul of Urban Storytelling
The Philadelphia Urban Film Festival (PUFF) is a vibrant celebration of storytelling from urban communities across the globe. Set in the culturally rich city of Philadelphia, PUFF shines a spotlight on filmmakers who explore the complexities of urban life, culture, and resilience.
With four engaging categories—Best Short Film, Best Web Series, Best Documentary, and Best International Film—PUFF provides a platform for diverse voices and creative perspectives. From local narratives to global stories, the festival highlights the shared experiences that connect urban communities everywhere.
Our Mission
The Philadelphia Urban Film Festival exists to:
- Amplify underrepresented voices in urban storytelling.
- Showcase diverse perspectives on urban life, culture, and resilience.
- Inspire meaningful dialogue about identity, community, and social change.
- Celebrate the power of film to foster connection and understanding.
What to Expect at PUFF
- Film Screenings: Watch a curated selection of films exploring themes of urban identity, resilience, and innovation.
- Interactive Q&A Sessions: Connect with filmmakers and gain insight into their creative processes.
- Networking Opportunities: Engage with industry professionals, artists, and fellow film enthusiasts.
- Awards Ceremony: Celebrate excellence in urban storytelling with awards for Best Short Film, Best Web Series, Best Documentary, and Best International Film.
Why Philadelphia?
Philadelphia, with its rich history and vibrant urban culture, serves as the perfect home for a festival celebrating stories from urban communities. As a city known for its creativity, diversity, and resilience, it embodies the spirit of the festival and the narratives it seeks to elevate.
Join Us
Be part of the Philadelphia Urban Film Festival and celebrate the voices that bring urban stories to life. Whether you’re a filmmaker eager to share your work, a supporter of the arts, or a film enthusiast looking for fresh perspectives, PUFF welcomes you to a one-of-a-kind experience.
Mark your calendars for July and join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of urban storytelling.
For updates, submissions, and tickets, visit https://philadelphiaurbanfilmfestival.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.
About Oscar Micheaux
Oscar Micheaux was a pioneer in American cinema and a fearless storyteller who broke barriers during the early 20th century. Through his work, he addressed complex social issues, including race, class, and identity, while challenging stereotypes and creating opportunities for African Americans in film. His legacy of resilience, creativity, and bold vision inspires the Philadelphia Urban Film Festival and the values we celebrate.
Award Criteria
The Oscar Micheaux Award is presented to filmmakers who exemplify:
1. Creative Excellence: Outstanding use of storytelling, cinematography, and artistic vision.
2. Innovation: Originality and ingenuity in presenting urban narratives.
3. Cultural Impact: A compelling exploration of urban life and themes that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.
4. Authenticity: Honest and meaningful representation of the complexities of urban communities.
Award Design
The Oscar Micheaux Award is a beautifully crafted trophy, symbolizing artistic achievement and the enduring legacy of Micheaux’s groundbreaking work. Each award is designed to reflect the rich culture and creativity of urban storytelling, a fitting tribute to its recipient.
The Legacy Lives On By awarding the Oscar Micheaux Award, PUFF honors Micheaux’s trailblazing contributions to cinema while encouraging today’s filmmakers to continue pushing boundaries and telling stories that matter. Winning this award signifies not only artistic achievement but also a commitment to advancing the narrative of urban communities and inspiring future generations of storytellers.
Film Maker Registry
Join our Film Maker Registry
Sign up for our mailing list to get notified of premieres, exclusive events and community programming.
A Celebration of Film and Storytelling in Philadelphia
Every year, the Philadelphia Urban Film Festival (PUFF) brings together a vibrant community of filmmakers and film enthusiasts for a multi-day celebration of creativity, culture, and cinematic excellence. With over 100 films and thousands of attendees, PUFF is a premier destination for urban storytelling.
The festival team carefully curates a lineup of the most compelling and thought-provoking films from around the world. From gripping documentaries to innovative web series and unforgettable short films, PUFF provides a platform for diverse voices to shine. The festival also features exclusive events, including filmmaker panels, industry discussions, and special appearances by actors, directors, and cultural leaders.
As a dynamic showcase of urban storytelling, PUFF highlights Philadelphia as a thriving hub for creative expression and cultural engagement. By partnering with local organizations, PUFF creates programs that connect communities, expand access to film, and invite new audiences to discover the transformative power of storytelling.
Join us this July to celebrate the best in urban filmmaking, connect with fellow film lovers, and be part of the growing story of Philadelphia’s creative legacy.