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WHAT IS A FILM FESTIVAL?

A film festival is a weekend full of current independent films from all over the world. They are made by filmmakers who are passionate about their art and not necessarily for any commercial reason. Many of these films will go on to get distribution, but right now you can see them first, right here with us! 

Filmmakers do a Question & Answer session (Q & A) after the screening of each film block. You get to ask all those questions you always wanted the answers to! In addition to the screenings there are workshops, professional panel discussions and even a live screenplay reading. (Hey who knows you may be discovered…it’s happened before at GSFF!!) 

Join us for lots of great parties where you can get up close to those folks you see on and behind the big screen! 

WHO GOES TO A FILM FESTIVAL?

Everybody who likes to have fun, see great films, meet celebrities and film industry professionals are invited to attend. GSFF only comes around once a year, so do yourself a favor and get up off the couch and check it out. We promise you will be glad you did! 

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The Garden State Film Festival screens in Screening Blocks curated carefully for a fun experience for all those who attend.

  • You will notice a Screening Block Code for each film on Listing at a Glance

  • When you buy a SINGLE SCREENING TICKET (Viewer’s Choice Ticket), it entitles you to a screening block

    • For example, you may see a short film (that’s a film that has a running time of less than 40 minutes) combined with a feature length film and a music video all in one screening block for the price of a single ticket.

    • A Q&A with the filmmakers follows this entire screening event. This is your chance to ask all those questions you always wanted to know answers to!

    • A complete schedule of titles and their synopsis is available through our Films A-Z Scheduler

NOTE: Out of courtesy for all of the filmmakers in the block we ask that you do not enter or leave the theater in the middle of the block. 

GSFF AT A GLANCE is the best spot to look at the entire schedule or Films from A-Z for the specific titles and the ticket link for that block. There are also tickets to all the other weekend events, such as workshops, professional panel discussions and the Black Tie Optional Awards Banquet (Yes you can go too!).

WHICH PASS OR TICKET SHOULD I BUY?

The best way to experience GSFF is to purchase screening tickets for any single screening block. Get the most out of all the amazing things we have to offer with the PARKWAY PASS! 

The Pass includes:

  • Access to Meet the Filmmakers Preview event **
  • Friday Night Gala Reception **
  • All film screenings
  • Panel Discussions
  • Screenplay Reading


The PARKWAY PASS does not include the Black Tie Optional Awards Banquet.

** RSVP is Required for these events. Email our Filmmaker Hospitality (hospitality@gsff.org) with your RSVP.

Please check it out in the ticket section. 

HOW DO I PURCHASE TICKETS?

For all ticketing information, pricing and package specifics, go to the Ticket Information page.

WHAT IS THE RETURN POLICY?

*** ALL TICKETS ARE FINAL SALE NO REFUND-NO RETURNS ***

Purchaser and/or bearer of ticket agrees that GSFF, its agents and licensees shall be held harmless in the event of technical difficulty and/or interruption for any or all reasons, whether or not the fault of GSFF. Purchaser and/or bearer of ticket agrees that GSFF’s “no refund” policy shall remain in effect.

All seating for film screenings is General Admission and seating is first come, first served.

The films being screened during the festival are unrated and may contain content that can be found offensive. Viewer discretion is advised.

Valid ID required for alcohol consumption.

VIP ETIQUETTE

We are very excited to have many well-known celebrities at this year’s Garden State Film Festival. They will be attending screening events, doing interviews, working press lines, attending panel discussions, the Friday Gala Cocktail Reception, and the Awards Banquet. In short, they’ll be mingling.

It is sure to be a whirlwind and we understand the desire to introduce yourself, communicate your admiration for their work or take photos with them. However, we simply ask that you respect their time and be mindful of any lines or crowds that may be forming around them. Please do not sit in seats reserved for VIP’s.

We certainly want them to feel loved, appreciated and welcomed, but we also want them to be assured that they can ‘mingle’ with their personal space intact. We ask that you respect the VIP’s, be professional in your conduct and wait for an appropriate time to shake hands and then move on.

VENUE RULES & REGULATIONS

All Festival patrons must adhere to the following rules, which will be posted at each theater or venue:

  • Eligible Badge, Pass and Ticket holders must be in the appropriate line at least 30 minutes before a screening block’s published start time to give you the best chance of admission.
  • All cell phones and electronic devices must be turned off prior to the start of the film.
  • Pets (except for service animals) are prohibited.
  • Attendees must take all personal belongings and litter with them upon exit. Any items left behind may be disposed of.
  • The Garden State Film Festival reserves the right to search the personal belongings of any patron inside or around the theater and/or venue premises. 
  • All attendees agree to comply with all published and stated rules and regulations, here and those additional required by each individual venue.
  • The Garden State Film Festival only presents in ADA-compliant venues.


The Garden State Film Festival proudly continues its commitment to accessibility in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). As a champion of inclusivity, the festival is dedicated to ensuring that all patrons have equal access to its diverse array of cinematic offerings.

GSFF additional policies and accessibility accommodations (link here) 

GSFF FILM OPTIONS

GSFF offers a fantastic array of films to dive into and enjoy. Looking over our four-day schedule you will feel like a kid in a candy store – so many films, so little time!

Wow, what should I pick? GSFF is showcasing an abundance of film and TV premieres, along with competition films, documentaries, romantic dramas, horror, suspense, script readings, and more. Expect all-star line-ups and engaging Q&As with beloved writers, actors, and filmmakers!

Romantic Dramas: Think of these as warm, flickering embers on a winter’s night, stories that slowly glow, revealing tender moments of love, heartbreak, and everything in between. They capture the poetry of the human heart, layering emotions like colors on a canvas.

Horror and Suspense: Brace yourself for a spine-tingling thrill ride—a dark, winding path through a fog-draped forest. These films are crafted to keep you on the edge, holding your breath as shadows shift and hidden terrors unfold. They’re like a tightly wound spring, ready to unravel with every turn.

Documentaries: These are windows to the world, each frame a brushstroke of reality that invites us to see life through a different lens. Like a masterfully written novel, they peel back layers of truth, introducing us to stories that resonate long after the credits roll.

Competition Films: Imagine stepping into an artist’s workshop, where diverse visions and daring ideas come alive. These films are the heart of creativity and innovation, brimming with bold expressions and thought-provoking narratives, each vying to leave a lasting mark.

Premieres and Screenings: These are like uncharted adventures, filled with surprises and anticipation. Each premiere feels like the unveiling of a secret treasure, offering fresh stories and perspectives as we share the magic of a first viewing together.

Cinema for the Ears: Garden State Film Festival Redefines Accessibility with Innovative Programs. GSFF sees this as an immersion program for people who are blind or have lo/no vision. In a bold move to expand the boundaries of cinematic storytelling, the GSFF recognizes the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in the arts. By forging “Cinema for the Ears,” the festival seeks to elevate the art of audio storytelling and provide a platform for creators to showcase their talent in a new and immersive format.

Each genre offers its own journey, filled with moments of laughter, fear, love, and discovery. Get ready to experience the festival’s lineup as an unforgettable feast for the senses!

IS THERE MORE YOU’D LIKE TO DISCOVER?

The Festival Attracts Thousands of People

  • It’s quite possible lines will be long so please wear comfortable shoes!


Seats Cannot Be Held

  • Seating is on a first come, first serve basis. Screenings are general admission only.
    It’s always best to buy your tickets online ahead of time!
    • Individual tickets can be purchased up to an hour prior to the screening and all venues sell tickets at the door (while supplies last)
    • Enter in the “Individual Ticket Holder” Line


Arrive to the Venues Early

  • To start the film on time, we must seat as many people as possible in a very short time frame so please enter and exit the theater as quickly and quietly as possible.


Most Of the Venues Are Staffed By Volunteers

  • Our army of volunteers make the festival possible by donating their time. Please be patient and don’t forget to thank them for their efforts. If YOU or anyone you know would like to be a part of the team we hope you will volunteer by clicking here!


Please Silence Your Cell Phone Once In the Theatre