Where Global Stories Meet the Skyline
The American International Short Film Festival is a curated celebration of bold short-form cinema from around the world. Designed to spotlight emerging talent alongside established industry voices, AISFF creates an environment where powerful storytelling is recognized, supported, and elevated.
Set high above Downtown Los Angeles at the City Club on the 51st floor of City National Plaza, the festival offers filmmakers and audiences an experience that reflects the ambition of the work on screen. Intimate yet elevated. Focused yet expansive. Local in energy, international in scope.
A Downtown Destination
Hosting the festival at the City Club Los Angeles is intentional.
With panoramic skyline views and a sophisticated setting, the venue reflects the professionalism and aspiration of the filmmakers we support. Guests experience screenings, awards, and receptions in an environment that feels elevated yet inviting.
The setting reinforces our belief that short films deserve serious attention and serious presentation.
Industry connection
AISFF attracts engaged audiences alongside working professionals from across the entertainment industry. Official selections gain visibility not only through screenings but through direct interaction with peers and decision-makers.
Past participants have gone on to additional festival screenings, distribution opportunities, and expanded creative collaborations well beyond their initial appearance at AISFF.
Our goal is not simply to screen films. It is to create momentum.
Our origins
The festival was originally launched as the American Latino International Short Film Festival, founded to amplify Latino voices and expand visibility for underrepresented storytellers.
From its inception, the vision extended beyond borders. What began as a celebration rooted in Latino creativity evolved into a broader international platform while maintaining its cultural warmth, inclusivity, and community-driven spirit.
Today, AISFF honors that foundation while welcoming narrative, documentary, experimental, and genre short films from across the globe.
The Experience
AISFF is more than a screening series. It is a gathering of filmmakers, artists, producers, and industry professionals who share a commitment to craft.
Official selections are presented in a refined private-club setting that encourages meaningful dialogue between creators and audiences. Panels, curated conversations, networking receptions, and live music create connection beyond the theater.
Here, filmmakers do not simply premiere their work. They build relationships, exchange ideas, and expand their creative network.
Our Commitment
We are committed to championing distinctive voices, cultural diversity, and fearless storytelling. Whether intimate or expansive, experimental or traditional, comedic or dramatic, we seek work that moves audiences and pushes creative boundaries.
Short films are often the first bold step in a filmmaker’s career. AISFF exists to make that step visible.