First-ever film festival in King City gives moviemakers a golden opportunity.

Filmmakers from around Monterey County have the opportunity to showcase their storytelling talent at the inaugural of the Pinnacles Film Festival. 

The event, presented by two nonprofits, the Arts Council for Monterey County and Sol Treasures, an arts and cultural center based in King City, is now calling for submissions from students, emerging and independent filmmakers for films centered around the theme of “Stories on the Edge.” This means distinctive films that offer fresh perspectives, unexpected voices and distinctive points of view that can range from all genres. 

The films can run up to 60 minutes and the entry categories include animation, documentary, experimental, feature, music video and short video. 

“South County has an amazing artist community and Sol Treasures has become that hub,” King City Mayor Mike LeBarre says. 

Film submissions must be original works and must not be publicly available online, either on YouTube, Vimeo or other platforms at the time of submission. The films must not be fully AI-generated and should contain content warnings for sensitive material. Plus filmmakers must hold all necessary rights and permissions, including music and third-party content. 

The Pinnacles Film Festival will take place on Oct. 10 at King City Cinemas from 10am-6pm. The format will allow artists to present their films in a curated screening where audience members can ask them questions. 

Selected filmmakers will receive festival laurels including best documentary, best student film, best first-time filmmaker, most unexpected film and the award for bold storytelling. They will also receive a certificate of participation, targeted social media promotion and exclusive red carpet opportunities.

“The upcoming film festival provides filmmakers the opportunity to showcase their vision, their soul and their arts. It’s going to be a great event and I’m looking forward to it,” LeBarre says. 

There are three film deadline submissions. An early bird deadline is open now until June 15, a regular deadline open until July 20 and a late deadline open until Aug. 10. 

To view submission fees and submit a film, visit soltreasures.com/the-pinnacles-film-festival.