Celebrating its landmark 20th anniversary at this past spring’s event, the Sunscreen Film Festival marked two decades as one of Florida’s leading platforms for independent film. The milestone event, held April 24-27 at the AMC Sundial Theatres, premiered 224 films spanning world cinema, local Florida shorts, and rising indie voices. Special festivities included an Opening Night Party at The James Museum and a glamorous awards ceremony on the St. Pete Pier, with celebrity guests Tara Reid and Jim O’Heir lighting up the red carpet and participating in panels and screenings.

The 20th anniversary Sunscreen Film Festival showcased a diverse and impressive lineup of films. Notable among them was the world premiere of the documentary Four Down by Oscar-nominated director Steven Cantor. Co-produced by Raleigh, NC-based Prix Productions, Mark Wahlberg’s Unrealistic Ideas, and Snoop Dogg’s Death Row Pictures, the film tells the gripping true survival story of Nick Schuyler after a tragic boating accident off Florida’s Gulf Coast.​

Another major festival feature was Dr. Quarantine, starring Tara Reid, which drew crowds at Sundial AMC Theatres, and The Good Fight, featuring John Schneider. Operation Taco Gary’s also stood out for its ensemble cast and comedic flair.

Founded in 2005 by Tony Armer and Derek Miner, the festival has grown exponentially from its humble beginnings at Studio@620, where early crowds stood shoulder-to-shoulder to catch indie gems, to today’s multi-day international event that draws thousands and screens more than 200 films annually.​

Armer reflected, “This year’s festival is an incredible lineup of films, industry events, and networking opportunities that make it our biggest year yet.” The Sunscreen Film Festival’s two decades of cinematic excellence continue to shape St. Petersburg's cultural landscape — and serve as a beacon for indie filmmakers both near and far.

 Over the years, Sunscreen’s red carpets have welcomed marquee names like John Travolta, Kelly Preston, and Gary Busey. Actors such as Patrick Wilson, Bill Cobbs, Michael Rooker, Dylan McDermott, Robert Davi, and Jeffrey Donovan have made memorable appearances, joining a wave of rising talent.​

Famous for its audience engagement and filmmaker accessibility, the festival offers not only screenings but also industry panels, screenwriting workshops, and vibrant networking events.

Attendees last year could rub shoulders at the opening night party at The James Museum and the glamorous awards ceremony on the St. Pete Pier — a testament to Sunscreen’s unique blend of Hollywood glam and approachable indie spirit.​

 According to Armer, the festival’s steady growth and its dual focus — championing the art of visual storytelling and impacting St. Pete’s cultural landscape — have been essential to its success: “For two decades, Sunscreen has been a beacon for independent filmmakers.”

With its legacy of movie premieres and famous visitors, the Sunscreen Film Festival continues to raise the region’s profile while nurturing the filmmakers of tomorrow.

A few of the award winners from the 2025 festival included:
• Best Documentary: Four Down
• Best Narrative Feature Film: The School Duel
• Best Director: Todd Wiseman, Jr. (The School Duel)
• Best Actor: Dustin Milligan (Operation Taco Gary’s)
• Best Actress: Leah Bateman (Where Were You)
• Best International Feature: Time Travel Is Dangerous
• Best Cinematography: Cameron Wheeless (Eastern Western)
• Best Florida Film: Little
• Best College Short Film: Off Limits
• Best High School Short Film: Encounter​

For a complete list of the 2025 winners, visit https://www.sunscreenfilmfestival.com/winners.html

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The Impact of Winning an Award at Sunscreen for Filmmakers

Winning an award at a major film festival, such as the Sunscreen Film Festival, can have a transformative impact on a filmmaker’s career. 

Industry Recognition
Award wins signal to studios, distributors, and potential collaborators that a filmmaker’s work stands out from the crowd. This credibility can lead to more invitations for pitch meetings, funding opportunities, and interest from talent agencies.

Distribution & Sales Leverage
Films that win festival awards often attract the attention of streaming platforms, distributors, and theatrical exhibitors. Award laurels can be featured in marketing materials, making films more appealing to a wider audience.

Networking and Connections
Award-winning filmmakers are frequently asked to join panels, speak at industry events, and participate in workshops, expanding their professional network. These connections often result in future collaborations and projects.

Grant and Development Funding
Many film grants and development programs favor or require previous festival wins, using them as proof of artistic merit and project viability.

Audience Growth
Being honored on a festival stage boosts a filmmaker’s profile with fans and followers. Social media buzz and media coverage around their win often translate into higher viewership numbers and grassroots support for future works.

Career Momentum
Past winners of Sunscreen and similar festivals have gone on to sign with Hollywood agents, secure bigger budgets for their next project, or transition from indie productions to mainstream TV and film. For emerging directors or screenwriters, an award can serve as a launchpad for a lasting career in the industry.

In essence, awards validate and amplify a filmmaker’s art — helping talented creators move from indie circuits to broader audiences and industry acclaim.

Visit the following link for a a 90-second photo recap of the 2025 Sunscreen Film Festival: http://email.robly.com/ls/click?upn=u001.1hlACU2QfzlJCsAAKI-2BoR7ogpbm-2F0wO1X16yFwRZdA2CdrHsUvdlSQv...

More photos from the Sunscreen Film Festival: 
https://www.flickr.com/photos/201360664@N07/albums/72177720325712616/