Filmmaker Testimonials

Hundreds of filmmakers have visited the Indie short Film Festival since its inception and were treated with respect, support, and our open ear to hear their needs as a filmmaker. Much of the festival’s program have been installed due to the thoughts and ideas of the filmmakers who have screened their films at IsFF.

Read what the filmmakers have to say

Sean Hennessy, “You Got It” –

The Indie Short Film Festival is a truly filmmaker‑friendly event, and Ty Cooper and his team deserve a lot of credit for creating such a welcoming, well‑run experience. From the energy of the opening night with Shagwuf to the warmth of the closing brunch, the entire weekend felt thoughtfully curated and community‑driven.

The programming was exceptional and showcased an impressive range of voices, styles, and production approaches. Farewell Day was a standout — beautifully crafted with a strong, grounded performance by Dariush Reshadat. Dear Beyoncé absolutely nailed the polished music‑video aesthetic before flipping it into something hilarious and unexpected, and it paired perfectly with King of the Ducks. Silvo Silva impressed me with its inventive storytelling and resourceful iPhone cinematography, while films like Gimme and Hafu demonstrated high‑end production craft. The variety made each block engaging and memorable.

The staff and volunteers were fantastic—organized, friendly, and clearly invested in making filmmakers feel supported. Meeting Ty in person was a pleasure; his passion for independent film is evident in every detail of the festival.

ISFF is a gem of a festival with heart, strong curation, and a genuine sense of community. Highly recommended.

Katie Dore, “Aloha Means I Love You” –

“What a tremendous weekend! Programming was exceptional, hospitality was top-notch and Charlottesville was lovely. A huge thank you to Ty Cooper and his team for the extra care they took to arrange discounted lodging, transportation and ample opportunities to meet fellow filmmakers and the engaged audience. This was the end of the festival run for Aloha Means I Love You and I can't think of a better way to bring our circuit to a close.”

Zahra Azadpour, “Dark Orange” –

“The Indie Short Film Festival is a supportive, well‑organized, and truly filmmaker‑focused event. Their communication is clear, timely, and professional, and the programming reflects a genuine appreciation for independent storytelling. The festival treats each film with respect and creates a positive atmosphere that makes filmmakers feel valued. I’m honored that my film was selected for this thoughtful and inspiring festival.”

Hunter Christy, “909” –

“Ty and his team assembled a smooth, welcoming, and fun festival. The films selected were great, communication was excellent, and everything was top notch. I was honored that my piece, "909," won Best Music Video, and look forward to submitting again in the future.”

Karen Zipor, “The Worm's-Eye View of the Bird" –

Thank you so much to the Indie Short Film Festival for my film, "The Worm's-Eye View of the Bird" winning best animated short!

This is my second year in a row of attending , and their slate of programming, panels, and events continues to grow and improve every year! Ty Cooper and his incredible team are dedicated to making sure everyone feels a part of the Charlottesville/Virginia filmmaking community, especially if you're flying in from out of town. Within 3 days, I got to participate on the animation panel and make genuine networking connections. This festival is such a gem to the community, and I cannot wait to see how it continues to grow and evolve next year.

Dr. Denise Wunderler, “VIENNA: Suddenly An Angel” –

“A well-run, friendly, welcoming festival! We were so honored to have our Virginia premiere of our award-winning short documentary VIENNA: Suddenly An Angel. Thank you Ty and team for a wonderful, very positive festival experience! xoxo”

Matthew Long, “A Giant Secret” –

“Had a wonderful time attending the 2026 festival and seeing so many amazing films! Ty Cooper does a terrific job hosting this diverse festival every year which features short films, documentaries, etc. I'm so honored to have had my short film screened this past weekend at the festival, and been able to meet many talented filmmakers.”

Gina Angelis, “Doors” & the Screenplay “BA” –

“Had an incredible time at the Indie Short Film Festival in Charlottesville for both the premiere of my film DOORS, which won Runner-Up Audience Choice Award (!!), and the table read of my script BA, which came in 2nd place in the screenplay competition. Ty was an incredible organizer, the venues were lovely, and the fest was even at the same time as a book festival! Definitely plan to attend again. Hope this fest continues as it's really a showcase for excellent shorts, and I'm honored to have been included!”

Hannah McAfee, “The Self Tape”

“I really enjoyed Indie Short Film Festival in Charlottesville. It was my first festival and my debut short. I had a lot of fun chatting and networking at the brunch. It was really awesome to have my film show in a thoughtfully crafted film block of Virginia filmmakers. It was a full house and the audience reactions to each film were priceless. Afterward, Ty invited us up for a brief Q and A. Overall, very homey festival, plus very friendly people in a fun little city. Hoping to go next year.”

Zane Johnson, “It's Not Fun to Have Fun” –

“Participating in ISFF was a fantastic experience. Ty Cooper and his team did an excellent job of communicating, organizing, and providing numerous opportunities to network and socialize in addition to presenting films and filmmakers in an exemplary manner. I look forward to returning in the future!”

Amanda Marino, “That’s When the Music Died” –

“I was so honored to have my film That’s When the Music Died have its world premiere at this festival. Ty Cooper and the entire Indie short Film Festival team were incredible. They created a wonderful festival with plenty of opportunities to network. Any person would be lucky to have their film play here. This festival is an absolute must.”