The Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival

We are proud to announce the Fifth Annual Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival (JTIFF) that will run April 21st through the 24th, 2022 as a LIVE, IN-PERSON EVENT at the beautiful Mauch Chunk Opera House in historic Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania.

The Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival channels the rebellious spirit of the Molly Maguires, welcoming the boldest, most defiant filmmakers to present their work, shatter convention and incite spirited debate.  Our credo is “eyes and minds wide open” and we mean it.  JTIFF cares deeply about diversity and strives to give the under-represented filmmaker a chance.  So we make a concerted effort to promote films by women, people of color, members of the LGBTQ community and student filmmakers.

Last year, JTIFF screened 91 fantastic films from around the globe including 23 world premieres and many more US and Pennsylvania premieres.  These films covered every style and subject, from gritty underground and experimental works to polished traditional narratives.  

JTIFF has grown leaps and bounds over the past five years.  We've maintained our place in “The Top 100 Best Reviewed Festivals" out of more than 5,000 on FilmFreeway.  year, we are honored to partner with PBS 39 who will be creating content throughout the festival and will also broadcast select winning films by this year’s best local filmmakers.