Zeitgeist Minnesota Film Festival

05/05/2026

A small way to stay connected
and support what happens here at Zeitgeist.

For $65/year, individual members get:
– $5 movie tickets year-round
– No online service fees
– Up to 20% off festival tickets + passes
– Discounts on theater + comedy events
– 10% off the restaurant
– Invites to special screenings + events

And most importantly—you’re supporting independent film and a space for community to gather.

05/04/2026

It truly takes a village 🤍

To all of our incredible sponsors—thank you for making this year’s festival what it was. Your support, generosity, and belief in storytelling is what allows this to exist in the first place.

Each year keeps getting better, and it’s because of you.

We couldn’t do this without you.

05/04/2026

Bloopers from one of our favorite interviews this year—and honestly, it says a lot about the energy of the whole festival.

We got to spend time with filmmakers who are not only incredibly talented, but also deeply human, collaborative, and fun to be around this year at the film festival.

To every filmmaker who joined us: thank you for sharing your voice and making this year what it was.

04/28/2026

Huge thank you to Explore Minnesota Film + FilmNorth for not only supporting this year’s film festival, but for actively investing in what comes next.

The 10,000 Stories Fund is opening doors for filmmakers across Minnesota—supporting projects at every stage with funding, mentorship, and real, tangible resources. The 10,000 Stories Fund is giving out ten $10,000 grants (!!) plus mentorship, location scouting support, and more.

This is for Minnesota filmmakers, at any stage, across any genre.

Applications are open through 6/5.

04/26/2026

Had the best time interviewing the filmmakers behind Stinky Fish—and I was laughing the whole time.

A small-town Minnesota Lutheran church, a chaotic rivalry between Lucy and Barbara, and Pastor Dan somehow making everything worse in the funniest way.

Directed by Whitney Engstrom, this one fully leans into awkward, petty, very human comedy in the best way.

04/26/2026

Spotlight Celebration Day felt like one of those days where you’re not just watching films—you’re learning how to listen a little better.

From the Indigenous panel to the shorts and documentary block, there was so much insight, context, and honesty woven into every part of the day. Our Stories program with local filmmakers grounded it all in meaningful way.

And ending with the awards, getting to celebrate filmmakers and storytelling.

Just a day that felt full—in story, in learning, and in connection.

04/25/2026

There’s something really special about watching artists step into a new lane and fully go for it.

Gunnar on the Grassland Sea was one of those pitches that felt intentional, and honestly just really captivating—the kind of story you can already feel before it’s even made.

Seeing familiar faces from Riverdale and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina step behind the camera and share something this personal—it hits different. It takes a lot to stand up there, pitch your idea, and open it up to a room full of people. And they did it with so much clarity and heart.

This is what the Pitch Competition is all about. Real stories, and filmmakers showing up for what they believe in.

Very excited to see where this one goes 🎬

04/25/2026

Day two = Filmmaker Friday and it delivered.

From the pitch competition to filmmaker happy hour, a packed panel on independent distribution, screenings, comedy, and dancing to top it off—it was one of those days where everything just clicked.

We’re feeling really grateful for the energy everyone’s bringing this year. It’s what makes the fest feel alive.

10/29/2025

Even though there aren't tickets available to reserve, you can still show up and be on the waitlist through the RUSH LINE!

In the event a ticket holder doesn't show up to the event, we will release tickets at a first come first serve basis 15-20 minutes after the program starts so folks who don't have a ticket have a chance to attend! If you're a ticket holder and can no longer attend, email us at [email protected].

See ya there!

The American Indian Learning Resource Center, Zeitgeist & Sponsors invite you to join us Monday, November 3rd, as we welcome and celebrate Gary Farmer at the Zeitgeist Zinema!

Gary is a First Nations actor and musician. He is best known for his Independent Spirit Award-nominated roles in Powwow Highway, Dead Man and Smoke Signals. Most recently starred in TV Series, Reservation Dogs and Resident Alien!

This event is free for the public, but make sure you get tickets to reserve your spot!
🎟️zeitgeistarts.com/zinema2