A3F History

The Almost Famous Film Festival originated in 2005 with a 48 Hour Short Film Challenge that became an overnight success. In 2007, more than 82 teams of filmmakers took part in the annual 48 Hour Challenge making it one of the largest film challenges in the country.

Based in Phoenix, Arizona, the A3F attracts filmmakers from Arizona, California, Texas, Nevada and Colorado. With the addition of the 24 Hour Challenge and All-Stars event in the fall of 2007, an International Short Film Festival, Music Video and 72 Hour Challenges in 2008, a One-Shot and Heroes and Villains All-Star Challenge in 2009, our first Musical Challenge in 2011 and our 9th Annual 48 Hour Challenge Anniversary in 2013, the A3F continues to expand and give filmmakers more opportunities to make films.

In December of 2008, A3F Incorporated was designated as a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. A3F Inc. will continue the successful tradition of the Almost Famous Film Festival while providing educational workshops, filmmaker mixers, scholarships and a media center for the arts community in Arizona.

The mission statement of the A3F is to put the filmmakers first. We accomplish this by running a festival that caters to the needs of its participants and audience. We keep our entry fees affordable, give away A3F goodies at screenings and events, hand out prizes and awards at the public screenings, and attract sponsors that have a direct interest in indie filmmaking and its surrounding community.

Most importantly, we answer all of your emails and questions in a prompt manner, solicit your advice on how to improve our events and maintain our number one priority...to make you Almost Famous!

Watch a behind-the-scenes video from one of our 48 Hour Challenges.

Sincerely,
Jae Staats
Director of A3F