The Ouray International Film Festival is an intimate four-day celebration held each June in the picturesque mountain town of Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America.” Founded in 2020, OIFF operates under the motto “Because movies and mountains can change your life,” emphasizing the transformative power of combining exceptional cinema with stunning natural beauty.
The festival takes place primarily at the historic Wright Opera House, built in 1888 and equipped with a state-of-the-art 4K cinema projector and audio system. Programming features jury-selected films, panel discussions, workshops, and parties, with generous gaps between events allowing filmmakers and attendees to explore Ouray’s natural attractions including hiking trails, hot springs, and scenic jeep roads.
OIFF prioritizes filmmaker care, providing financial assistance for travel and lodging, catered meals, and creating meaningful networking opportunities through organized events and informal gatherings at mountain homes, coffee shops, and rooftops. The festival has launched the Ouray Film Sabbatical, a fully-funded March residency program for filmmakers, critics, and programmers seeking creative support and community.
Co-founded by Jake Abell (Ouray High School graduate and Vanderbilt PhD) and Jared LaCroix (filmmaker and creative director), the festival emphasizes authentic connections over industry networking. Many filmmakers return annually, creating lasting professional relationships. The intimate setting accommodates 120-587 people per screening, fostering genuine audience engagement and filmmaker interaction.
