The ICP Entertainment Film Festival, one of New York City’s most electrifying annual celebrations of creativity, culture, and cinematic brilliance, has officially opened its call for entries for the 12th Annual Festival, set to dazzle Times Square from October 23–27, 2026.
Submissions for the 12th Annual ICP Entertainment Film Festival open December 1, 2025. Join one of NYC’s most electrifying celebrations of cinematic brilliance
Founded in 2014 by visionary filmmaker Richard Oliver Jr. and co-founder Veena Kondapalli, the festival has become a dynamic force in New York City’s creative landscape—championing bold voices, global perspectives, and unforgettable stories from filmmakers worldwide. Now entering its twelfth year, ICP Entertainment continues to expand its impact, platform, and legacy.
And now, the 2026 submissions are officially opened. Filmmakers can now submit their work via FilmFreeway at: filmfreeway.com/ICPEntFilmFestival
The festival is a curated international showcase featuring 11 Short Film categories and 11 Feature Film categories, with 22 winners earning the prestigious Official Selection Award Title—a badge of excellence recognized throughout the industry.
Whether you are a seasoned creator, an emerging storyteller, or an industry powerhouse, ICP Entertainment welcomes your boldest, most fearless work. Sponsorship, press, and volunteer inquiries may be directed to: icpentnyc@gmail.com
The 11th Annual ICP Entertainment Film Festival (October 24–26, 2025) marked a monumental milestone. Hosted at Saar Indian Bistro and the legendary Producers Club Theater in the heart of Times Square, the three-day celebration brought together filmmakers, celebrities, industry leaders, and global creatives for a vibrant fusion of culture, film, fashion, and artistry.
This year’s award-winning films showcased 11 standout categories:
Best Black Lives Matter – America, I Can’t Breathe
Best Climate Change – Kay Pacha Initiative: The Amazon Phase 3
Best Mental Illness – LOX
Best Humanity Film – AI’s Silent Omissions
Best Music Video – Until The Last Minute
Best Animation – I Am Duck
Best Comedy – Out Of Order
Best Drama – No Nation
Best Horror – The Axe Forgets
Best Web Series – The Story of Megan Jacoby (Ep. 1–6)
Best Documentary – Maria
Guests enjoyed a star-studded Red Carpet Walk, extensive press coverage, and a delectable dining experience curated by Michelin 5-Star Executive Chef Hemant Mathur. The glamour was heightened by four themed fashion moments—Indian, Haitian, African, and Palestinian—adding a powerful cultural resonance to the festivities. Gift bags were provided to all sponsors, VIP guests, and attending celebrities, and the energy throughout the festival was nothing short of spectacular.
Richard Oliver Jr. shared heartfelt gratitude for the community that made the milestone event possible, thanking God and everyone who made the event a success.
In the spirit of James Cameron’s words—“You have to make the commitment within yourself to do whatever it takes to get the job done and to try to inspire other people to do it…”—the festival continues to embody teamwork, passion, and unwavering vision.
To support the next chapter of growth and cover essential festival costs, ICP Entertainment will launch a major Seed & Spark crowdfunding campaign on March 3, 2026, with a goal of $30,000. After careful research, Seed & Spark was chosen as the ideal platform for its filmmaker-centred approach and proven impact in empowering creative communities.
Supporters—ranging from long-time fans to new partners—will have the opportunity to directly contribute to the festival’s expansion, programming, red carpet experiences, and community outreach initiatives.
See You in Times Square — October 23–27, 2026
As the ICP Entertainment Film Festival steps into its twelfth year, it remains committed to elevating diverse voices, celebrating cinematic excellence, and creating spaces where stories ignite powerful connections.
To explore past highlights and official coverage, subscribe to ICP Entertainment’s official YouTube channel: youtube.com/therhymeimpersonator
With submissions now open and preparations underway, the countdown to the 12th Annual Festival has officially begun. Filmmakers:
Go bold. Go fearless. Go win.
ICP Entertainment Film Festival — Official Links
Email: icpentnyc@gmail.com
FilmFreeway: filmfreeway.com/icpentfilmfestival
Official Website: icpentfilmfestival.com
YouTube Channel: The Rhyme Impersonator Show
Festival Trailer: Watch on YouTube
Instagram: @icpentfilmfestival
TikTok: @icpentfilmfestival
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