ABOUT BENDFILM

Founded in 2003, BendFilm is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating independent cinema’s unique power to enrich lives, promote diversity and inspire change through vibrant educational programs and film festival experiences across Central Oregon.

BendFilm presents the annual Bend Film Festival, year-round screenings at Tin Pan Theater, Free Movies in the Park, filmmaker programs like Basecamp, and youth education camps and workshops that connect Central Oregon communities through film.

Bend Film Festival: Now in its 23rd iteration, the Bend Film Festival welcomes thousands of attendees to screenings, panels, parties, and events across town. The Festival showcases more than 100 independent and student films along with post-screening Q&As with filmmakers.

Tin Pan Theater: In 2019, BendFilm took over ownership of Tin Pan Theater, a beloved arthouse cinema in the heart of Bend, Oregon’s historic downtown. Located at 869 NW Tin Pan Alley, the 28-seat venue allows BendFilm to increase its year-round programming and bring people together around the mission of celebrating independent cinema in Central Oregon.

Movies in the Park: BendFilm’s “Movies in the Park” is a free, outdoor summer film series presented in partnership with Bend Parks & Recreation. The program brings families, youth, older adults, and neighbors together in shared public parks for evenings of film and connection. Screenings are designed as welcoming, multigenerational gatherings that reduce social isolation and foster belonging across Deschutes County.

Basecamp: A 4-day immersive, all-inclusive retreat for 40+ filmmakers that precedes the annual Bend Film Festival – a place where narrative and documentary filmmakers gather to equip themselves with knowledge and skills before embarking on the challenging and rewarding process of creating films. It provides a foundational and preparatory experience, setting the stage for innovation and exploration in the art of filmmaking. It’s a one of a kind opportunity for next generation filmmakers to connect with industry professionals, workshop pitches with other filmmakers, and receive hands-on training and mentorship to advance their careers in today’s film industry.

Youth Education: At BendFilm’s summer film camp, students learn how to unleash all of the creative potential of their iPads to learn how to write a script, direct actors, record quality picture and sound and edit their films all in just five days. On the final day of camp, students & families gather to screen and discuss each other’s work. Each year, the City of Bend, Central Oregon Daily, and BendFilm also invite students in grades 6-12 from Bend to film a 30-second TV commercial about water conservation, river protection, and related water topics. Winners receive cash prizes, recognition, and a chance to work with a TV producer to adapt the winning video for broadcast.