The Dam Short Film Festival: A Celebration of Independent Cinema

Boulder City, Nevada was founded in 1931 to house workers building the Hoover Dam when President Calvin Coolidge signed the Boulder Canyon Project Act in 1928, authorizing the construction of the dam and the creation of Boulder City. It was a federally managed town until 1959, when it became an independent municipality. Every February, the historic town of Boulder City, Nevada, comes alive with the magic of cinema as filmmakers and movie lovers from around the world gather for the Dam Short Film Festival. As Nevada's largest film festival, dedicated exclusively to short films, this beloved event has become a cornerstone of the state's cultural calendar. A Legacy of Passion and Creativity The Dam Short Film Festival was co-founded in 2003 by Lee and Anita Lanier. They have a passion for the film festival circuit, having fallen in love with the many films they have viewed while attending those imaginative festivals. The two were so inspired that they decided to be involved in something of their own, and the Dam Short Film Festival was born. Coupled with the fact that Lee is a professional animator; he has spotlighted his animated works at over 200 festivals worldwide. Anita decided to play a key role in festival programming, having screened several thousand independent short films since its inception. Together, they created a platform that celebrates the artistry and storytelling of short films. Their goal… “To seek out original, unusual, and entertaining short films from around the world and make them available to the general public via the annual Dam Short Film Festival,” is a direct quote from the festival’s website. Organized by the Dam Short Film Society, a 501(c)3 non-profit Nevada corporation, the festival has grown immensely over the years. While Lee and Anita stepped down from board responsibilities in 2023, their contributions were honored at the 19th Annual Dam Short Film Festival when they were awarded the ‘Key to the City’ of Boulder City—a fitting tribute to their dedication and impact. The Festival Experience The Dam Short Film Festival features over 150 independent short films across a variety of genres, including comedy, drama, animation, sci-fi, horror, documentary, and student films. Each year, thousands of attendees enjoy screenings held at the historic Boulder Theatre, a 400-seat venue built in 1931 and owned by Desi Arnaz Jr. and his wife, Amy. Beyond film screenings, the festival offers a dynamic lineup of events such as filmmaker Q&A sessions, mixers, panels, and an awards ceremony. Audience participation is key, as festival goers vote to determine winners in multiple categories, including Best Nevada Filmmaker. Also, the prestigious Leslie Paige Award for Excellence in Filmmaking, which comes with not only a special award statue, but includes a cash prize for a filmmakers further investment in creative expression. Recognized and Supported The festival’s reputation has attracted industry professionals and well-known actors to its screenings. Over the years, shorts featuring talents like Oscar-winner Louis Gossett Jr. ("Window"), Tom Hanks, William Shatner, and Michael York ("Why Shakespeare?") have graced its program. The event has also been supported by sponsors such as The Art Institute, the Nevada Film Office, the Hacienda Hotel and Casino, and Cirque du Soleil. Additionally, the Dam Short Film Society receives annual grants from the National Endowment for the Arts via the Nevada Arts Council. Looking Ahead With more than 20 years of history, the Dam Short Film Festival continues to grow and evolve, cementing itself as a premier event in the world of independent short films. Its commitment to showcasing diverse and innovative storytelling ensures that Boulder City remains a must-visit destination for filmmakers and film lovers alike. For those looking to submit their work, the festival is known for its low submission fees through Film Freeway, making it an accessible and appealing option for up-and-coming creators. As the festival moves into its next chapter, its mission remains clear: to celebrate short films, support independent filmmakers, and bring the best of cinema to Southern Nevada. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or simply a lover of great stories, the Dam Short Film Festival is an experience you won’t want to miss.