About

The Ocala Film Derby (OFD) is dedicated to fostering creativity, collaboration, and artistic expression through the art of filmmaking. This event brings together teachers, mentors, producers, organizers, and sponsors in a five-day immersion of education and celebration.

The OFD creates a platform that empowers and inspires educators, mentors and students alike to explore the limitless possibilities of filmmaking. Through hands-on workshops, and interaction with industry professionals at all levels and from diverse backgrounds, OFD strives to create a supportive and innovative environment that nurtures artistic growth, storytelling, and technical proficiency.

All workshops lead to the “main event” of the OFD, a fast-paced, real world, student film-making competition. Seven teams with seven mentors, eighty-four students and nine hours, will produce seven short films!! These student teams will see their films on the big screen, win big awards, and have the opportunity to be a scholarship recipients.

Join us at the Ocala Film Derby, to be part of an unforgettable experience, where the magic of filmmaking unites, educators, mentors, and students, inspiring a new generation of artists to shape the future of filmmaking and the many career paths that support storytelling of all kinds.