Hollywood is a popular neighborhood in Los Angeles, known throughout the world. It is a symbol of the entertainment industry, attracting tourists from all over the world. That is where numerous film studios are located, along with many celebrities reside. Incidentally, the first studio in Hollywood was founded by a New Jersey company at the beginning of the 20th century. It stands to reason that numerous events and festivals are hosted regularly in this famous neighborhood. Today we will speak about the history of the creation and development of the Hollywood Film Festival. Learn more about it on the pages of los-angeles.pro.
The history of the film festival’s foundation: where it all began
The history of the film festival started in 1997. It was founded by spouses Carlos de Abreu and Janice Pennington. The film festival aimed to bridge the void between Hollywood and newcomers wanting to make films. The festival gives the motivation to shoot a quality film product that will appeal to the audience.
At first, the event was not well regarded by critics, which led the founders to invite Hollywood celebrities to attend the awards ceremony. After they first started attending the Hollywood Film Awards, the event started gaining popularity.
Let’s add that the awards ceremony was founded the same year as the film festival itself. Those two events are united by the fact all festival finalists automatically participate in the awards ceremony. Accordingly, the winners receive their awards at the ceremony, while the festival presents the films of the participants who have applied.

Film festival development: innovation and change
Innovation in the life of the film festival came through again in 2013. For the festival to gain more status, it was decided to create a Hollywood Network program. Within the framework of this program, there were meetings between professionals in the world of cinema and newcomers. Also in 2013, Slamdance Film Festival cofounder, John Fitzgerald, was hired as the Executive Director of the 17th awards ceremony.
The Hollywood Film Festival, by the way, takes place every year in October. It was done intentionally to make the Hollywood Film Awards the first awards ceremony of the season.
What are the rules for participating in the Hollywood Film Festival?
Every festival has its own set of rules and regulations. The Hollywood Film Festival is no different. So, to participate in the festival, you must:
- Submit an application form (the applicant must be over 18 or have an adult guardian).
- Submitted films must not have major American distributors.
- It is required to apply through the Filmfreeway system.
- The film does not necessarily have to be a premiere and may not be shown publicly.
- Films must have subtitles in English.
That’s how the Hollywood Film Festival was created and developed. Well, in Los Angeles, there is always something taking place, with different events, festivals and film presentations, as well as concerts and exhibitions. It is especially true in Hollywood, a symbol of the American filmmaking and leisure industry. However, the Hollywood Film Festival holds a special place among such festivals. Every year, Hollywood celebrities attend this social event. It is an opportunity to once again draw attention to themselves, including socializing with colleagues and the press, especially since the Hollywood Film Festival is loved by Americans and not only.
We hope you enjoyed our material and learned more about this well known film festival.
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