The Silver Chance International Film Festival is a new annual celebration of inspiring cinema, dedicated to stories of resilience, hope, and human transformation. Held in Springfield, Missouri, the festival brings together filmmakers, students, and local audiences for films that explore mental health, adversity, identity, poverty, and second chances.

Our mission is to spotlight meaningful, socially conscious storytelling that sparks empathy and reflection. We believe cinema can heal, motivate, and create understanding - and the festival serves as a space where difficult journeys meet the optimism of new beginnings.

This inaugural year features curated short and feature-length films across narrative, documentary, animation, and student categories, all chosen for their emotional power and authentic voice. Our central theme, “New Beginnings,” honors films that illuminate resilience and the courage to rebuild.

The festival will include:
• Live screenings in late April
• Filmmaker Q&A sessions
• Audience discussions
• A community-focused awards ceremony
• Opportunities for student engagement

Whether you are sharing your story or discovering new perspectives, we invite you to join us as we begin the first chapter of a festival dedicated to hope, transformation, and second chances.