Cucalorus named to MovieMaker’s list of 50 film festivals worth the entry fee
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Cucalorus Film Festival has once again earned national recognition, landing a spot on MovieMaker Magazine’s annual list of “50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee” for the 11th consecutive year.
The list highlights festivals that offer unique experiences for filmmakers and audiences alike.
This year’s festival — the 31st annual — will take place Nov. 19–23, 2025, in historic downtown Wilmington. Organizers are now accepting submissions from filmmakers, performers, and artists worldwide.
Described by MovieMaker as “deliciously offbeat, smashingly innovative, [and] charmingly anti-competitive,” Cucalorus is a non-competitive festival that showcases more than 100 films each year. Its programming spans a wide range of themes, including social justice, southern storytelling, horror, dance on camera, and experimental film.
“We’re cooking up some special programming—from tributes to David Lynch to a deeper dive into bold new voices,” said Dan Brawley, the festival’s Chief Instigating Officer. “The real magic of Cucalorus comes from the artists who submit their films, performances, and wild ideas.”
Submissions are open for feature films, documentaries, animations, dance and experimental works, and personal essay films. The festival also invites proposals for live performances and installations, including the signature Dance-a-lorus showcase and the immersive Bus to Lumberton experience.
The final deadline for film submissions is June 30. The deadline for live performances and installations is July 28.
