Lights

The Virginia Student Film Festival (VSFF) returns to the historic Paramount Theater in Charlottesville on April 4, 2026, reaffirming its commitment to celebrating bold, original storytelling from the next generation of filmmakers. Presented as a one-day showcase, VSFF highlights exceptional short films created by undergraduate filmmakers from universities across the Mid-Atlantic Region.

Building on the success of its recent revival, the festival will present two curated screening blocks featuring a diverse lineup of films under 15 minutes, representing a wide range of voices, styles, and perspectives. In addition to the screenings, audiences will be invited beyond the screen through a filmmaker panel offering insight into the creative process and the challenges of independent storytelling at the student level.

The evening culminates in a red carpet reception at The Paramount, complete with live music, filmmaker interviews, and photo opportunities, followed by an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding achievements in directing, acting, cinematography, and screenwriting. As one of the premier student film showcases in the region, VSFF serves as both a celebration of emerging talent and a gathering place for artists, audiences, and collaborators passionate about the future of cinema.

Sponsored by The Jefferson Trust, UVA Student Council, UVA Arts, and The Office of the Provost and Vice Provost of the Arts.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO! The Paramount Theater is pleased to bring diverse programming to the stage and screen. The Theater does not provide advisories about subject matter for events, as sensitivities vary. Not all events may appeal to, or be appropriate for, every person. Patrons are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the shows offered in order to make informed decisions prior to purchasing tickets.

In addition to show synopses, trailers, and reviews on our web events, other resources about content and age-appropriateness for specific films can be found on Common Sense Media, IMDb, and DoesTheDogDie.com as well as through general internet searches. For further questions, please contact the Box Office at 434.979.1333 or at boxoffice@theparamount.net, 10AM-2PM Monday-Friday + 1 hour before events.