What's the DIFF?

diff 2 About DaVinci Film Festival

Have you ever scrolled through film festivals, wondering, “What makes this one different?” That’s a great question, and at DIFF (DaVinci International Film Festival), we believe it starts with our name.

Leonardo da Vinci embodied a brilliantly innovative spirit, and that’s exactly what we aim to celebrate at DIFF. We’re a boutique festival seeking out independent filmmakers who push boundaries and captivate audiences with fresh storytelling.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Intimacy Meets Impact. We may be fresh on the scene, but we bring big impact. Our meticulously chosen Official Selections screen alongside other exceptional works at the world-famous Grove in Los Angeles. Our focus on exclusivity allows us to connect with filmmakers and screenwriters on a personal level, ensuring a supportive and enriching experience throughout their creative journey.

Visionary Guidance: Leading with Passion. DaVinci’s leadership is a powerhouse. Emmy winners, a BAFTA recipient, a Sundance co-founder, and award-winning WGA, DGA, and SAG professionals bring their passion and expertise to the table. Driven by excellence, they’re dedicated to fostering connections with new filmmakers and writers.

Leo Legacy: Celebrate Every Vision. Our Leo Awards honor excellence in narrative, documentary, animation, and screenwriting. Plus, we’re spotlighting future storytellers with the free Junior Leo® Awards for students and DIFF’s innovative GENIUS category for ultra-short films. Share your voice and join the DIFF family!

The Leo Award: A Symbol of Cinematic Achievement, Just like the meticulous care we put into curating films and crafting our brand, the Leo Award embodies excellence. This custom-designed, 5-pound museum-grade bust of Leonardo da Vinci is a unique trophy presented to the Best of Fest winners in our signature categories. In 2024, at DIFF’s 6th Edition, a special Leo Award was bestowed upon Michel J. Fox for our inaugural Visionary Award. The Leo Award is more than a statue; it’s a recognition of exceptional filmmaking and the hard work behind it.

Leo Winner’s Package: Amplified Recognition (New in 2024!). Winning a Leo goes beyond the stunning bust statue. In 2024, we’ve upped the ante! Our Leo winners now receive:

  • L.A. Billboard Exposure: Showcase your poster with a million+ impressions per month.
  • Streamer Distribution Control: Monetize your content with a distribution deal on a major platform.
  • Second Theater Screening: Expand your audience with an additional screening opportunity.

And More! We’re constantly adding exciting benefits for our winners.

Official Selections: Every year, we handpick the finest independent films (narrative features & shorts, documentaries, animation, and screenplays) who compete for our Leo Award at the iconic AMC Theatres at The Grove in Los Angeles.

Mastermind Panel Events: Gain insights from industry titans at DIFF’s exclusive events. Past panels featured FilmBC, FilmAsia, The Creativity Conference (Making Your First Feature), and The Writers’ Corner.

Unforgettable Recognition: Selected films compete for the coveted Leo Award, Audience Award (GENIUS category), and the brand-new Jr. Leo Award. Celebrate with an in-theater red-carpet ceremony and glamorous after-party.

Your Creative Home: DIFF is a supportive community. We understand you have options, and we’re thrilled you’re considering us. Let’s collaborate and elevate your cinematic journey!

Come experience the DIFFerence!

DaVinci International Film Festival

wick sig 2 About DaVinci Film Festival
Chadwick Pelletier
Founder & CEO