Testimonials

"We cannot begin to express what an absolutely amazing festival this is! We drove up from NYC and got caught in a late season snowstorm on our way and it was so worth every minute it took us to get there. Kaelin and Tamar made us feel so welcome and part of the Valkyrie family instantly. One of the experiences that makes this festival unique is that not only is this an exclusively female directed event, but that every filmmaker gets their own Q & A directly after the screening. This enhances the experience so much; as the film is fresh in everyone's mind and the feedback is more organic, insightful and sometimes even constructive. None of the blocks felt drawn out or too long and the discussions were so intimate and fulfilling for filmmakers and audience members alike. Kaelin and Tamar also go out of their way to introduce like-minded filmmakers to encourage networking and conversation outside the blocks. As often introverted filmmakers, this made all the difference! We felt so accepted and included and we cannot wait for the opportunity to do it all again next year! If you are wondering if you should submit to this festival, you should! We cannot recommend it enough!" - Philip Kral, cinematographer of "Always Wear Comfortable Shoes"

"Our film had its debut at the VIFF and what a wonderful, positive experience that was! They were quick and timely with their notifications and went out of their way to accommodate us because we were coming from Canada. The festival was small and intimate so we were able to interact with the audience as well as mingle with the other filmmakers. What a great experience! I will be back next year!" - Lori Zozzolotto, director of "Nereid"

"I can’t say enough how great this festival experience was. It’s a filmmaker’s festival. I met wonderful creatives and left inspired. Kaelin and Tamar did a wonderful job of celebrating female directors and their work. I hope to be back!" - Diane Lansing, director of "Trust"

"This is a wonderful festival that really cares about the mission of highlighting women directors and bringing them together to celebrate filmmaking. The venue is a very fun little indie movie theater with great sound. The atmosphere of the festival is warm, welcoming, and inclusive. I highly recommend this festival and hope to attend again in the future." - Rachel Koteen, director of Take the Ice

"Valkyrie International Film Festival was a unique film experience. Filmmakers had the opportunity to support each other's films, ask questions of the filmmakers, and make new contacts in the industry. The quality of films shown was quite astounding, especially with poignant documentaries that truly were world-class. The festival celebrated international and local filmmakers alike, and the Mother-Daughter team made the experience enjoyable and welcoming to all. Definitely look forward to submitting again next year! There should be more film festivals like VIFF!" - Sabrina Young, director of "Resurrection" and "DoorSlash"

"Valkyrie International Film Festival is one of the absolute most amazing festivals I have ever been to. It may be a smaller festival, but it is MIGHTY. Tamar and Kaelin are two of the kindest, most bad a**, wonderful women I have ever met. My husband and I had a blast! The films are great, the vibe is indie, and the filmmakers are .... well... they're Valkyries! Can't wait to go again!" - V. Leigh, director of "Ardor" and "Holy Moly Meteorite"

"I am so happy that I was able to attend this wonderful festival. Thank you for making everyone feel so welcome and valued and for celebrating the work of these bad a** female directors. These films were all fantastic and I am so honored to be part of it and to have my short Almost Boston nominated for an award. I hope to be able to come to your festival again and to follow the success of it all! Buffalo NY has a great film community!" - Dawn Sellers, director of "Almost Boston"

"There is something special about the VIFF. I attended last year as just a customer and was so inspired by the festival and what all these women created, I was determined to submit my own film. It was an honor to be part of this year’s festival. Communication leading up to the festival was fantastic, and the excitement among the filmmakers and festival coordinators was contagious. The venue is intimate and supports a wonderful family-owned business. I hope to be part of VIFF again in the future." - Amanda R. Woomer, director of "Cupcake" and "Where Is Earth Mother?"