Welcome to OIF

OIF stands for the Organization of Independent Filmmakers. We started out in Orlando, Florida back in 2016 due to an interest in visual storytelling, and so wished to practice making films. A social post led to a meeting with five members joining in the cause. Since then, we have evolved into a multi-city film community with thousands of active members participating in all aspects of filmmaking.

Shortly after inception, OIF evolved into a platform that began conducting periodic Script-to-Screen Challenges that members may choose to participate in. Writers and production leads sent in scripts according to the current Challenge’s guidelines (genre, running length, format, etc.). Upon acceptance, the producers would assemble a production team, which they found was relatively easy to do since a good number of anxious cast and crew members were easily approachable and ready to join. Producers, cast and crew were able to gain valuable experiences to grow their craft, network with others and even create film production enterprises to dive deeper into the film production industry.

Talent gained experience and film credits, which lead many of the more serious members to gainful employment in the industry. Each Challenge culminates in a private Theatrical Screening of the collected productions, followed by an Awards Ceremony and Networking Party. Gowns and suits graced the red carpet posing for photos as the ceremonies were about to start. Then the parties allowed for more connections to be made or solidified. This process repeats itself several times a year, with each Challenge showing a clear improvement in the overall quality of the productions. The personal growth and experience of participating cast and crew members is also very noticeable.

We are elated to have grown a platform that allows anyone with a spark of ambition to be able to reach out and touch their dreams. For many, our group today has become more of a “film family” which we will continue to nurture and grow for years to come.

Lenny and Tzvia Lorusso,
Founders