Fred Jee • March 17, 2024

Introducing the Borrego Springs Film Institute

Transforming Cinema Culture Beyond the Festival

The Borrego Springs Film Festival has evolved into the Borrego Springs Film Institute (BSFI), signifying a significant milestone in promoting arts, culture, and education. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the BSFI extends its mission beyond the annual festival, aiming to enrich the community through year-round programs and initiatives.

Get Involved With The BSFI

The Dawn of the Borrego Springs Film Institute

A New Identity, A Renewed Purpose

Formerly known as the Borrego Springs Film Festival, the BSFI embraces its new identity with a commitment to expand its impact. Beyond the festival, the Institute will operate throughout the year, offering diverse programs and activities.

Goals of the BSFI:

Strengthening Community Engagement: Through collaboration with local entities, the Institute seeks to foster a sense of community and encourage active participation.

Advancing Arts and Culture: With increased funding opportunities, the BSFI will curate various cultural events and film screenings, celebrating the diversity of cinematic arts.

Fostering Regional Development: By attracting film tourism and contributing to Borrego Springs' cultural appeal, the Institute aims to stimulate economic growth and cultural vibrancy.

A Community's Journey Continues

The Borrego Springs Film Institute heralds a new era of artistic expression and community engagement. With a focus on inclusivity and education, it promises to offer enriching cultural experiences for all.

Visit: www.borregospringsfilmfestival.org

Learn More About Borrego Springs

May 7: BSFI’s Free Movie Night

April 23, 2025

Starting April 2025, a brand-new season of Free Community Screenings kicks off—thanks to generous support from the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund.

2025 BSFF Award Winners Announced!

January 24, 2025

2025 BSFF Award Winners Announced! The Borrego Springs Film Festival (BSFF) has once again celebrated independent cinema with a fantastic lineup of films and filmmakers. If you missed this year’s festival, here’s your chance to discover the winners who stood out in 2025. Explore the full list below and visit the BSFF website to learn more about these incredible films and the creative minds behind them. Main Juried Competition Winners Best Youth Film Under 18: Guiding Light Best Student Film 18+: Brothers: A Civil War Story Best Short Under 20 Minutes: Twilight Cafe Best Short 20 to 50 Minutes: Teodoro Best Animation: Bulbank Best Documentary Over 30 Minutes: Ultimate Citizens Best Documentary Under 30 Minutes: Beyond the Herd Best International Film: Camping in Paradise Best Feature Film: Last County Additional Categories Competition Best Comedy: Ms. Rossi Best Director Feature: Ian Ebright, The Way We Speak Best Director Short: Darcine’s Day Best Cinematography: Brothers: A Civil War Story Best Editing: Dormant Best Music Score: Ghost Town Best Performance Comedy: Sonia Barbadoro, Ms. Rossi Best Performance Drama: Jane Ives, Gone Before Your Eyes Laara Award (Tie): Ultimate Citizens and Zero Sum Callo Award: Gone Before Your Eyes People’s Choice Awards Best Overall Film: Ms. Rossi 3 Best International: Camping in Paradise Best Animation: Croak Show Best Documentary: The Ship That Turned Back Best Short: Ms. Rossi 3 Best Feature: Stampila The Golden Cookie Awards Best Action Film: Rise of the Fallen Angel, Director Robert Stronger Best Drama: God & Buddha Are Friends, Director Anthony Ma Why BSFF Is Special The Borrego Springs Film Festival is a true celebration of independent cinema. With events like catered galas, filmmaker networking opportunities, panel discussions, red carpet moments, and award ceremonies, it’s more than a festival—it’s a community. Their “traditional film festival” model focuses on connecting film lovers to filmmakers in a personal and encouraging way. Whether you’re attending for the films, the people, or the atmosphere, BSFF offers an unforgettable experience. Discover More Want to see trailers, posters, or learn about the filmmakers? Visit the Borrego Springs Film Festival website and dive into the world of independent film.

UPDATE: Borrego Springs Film Institute

December 5, 2024

Support the Magic of Film in Borrego This holiday season, The Borrego Springs Film Institute reflects on a year of cinematic achievements—from free community screenings to their 12th Annual Film Festival . Here’s a heartfelt message from The Borrego Springs Film Institute. If you’re inspired by their work to bring the magic of film to our community, consider signing up for their updates to stay connected and support their mission.