The second annual Round Top Film Festival is set for November 6 – 9.
The second annual Round Top Film Festival is set for November 6 – 9, bringing over 40 world class independent films to the big screens at Festival Hill and the historic Round Top Dance Hall over the cinematic weekend. Expect engaging panels, red carpet glamour, dazzling themed parties, and an inspiring awards ceremony.
Founded by the dynamic mother-daughter duo Shanna Schanen and Skylar Schanen, the festival shines a spotlight on Texas filmmakers and the climate of filmmaking in Texas, blending bold regional storytelling with global perspectives. RTFF also showcases panel discussions including the influence of film & fashion, a Rising Star Showcase, the evolving outlook of the film industry, veterans in filmmaking and making a big splash in the film festival arena, stunt designers in action and the challenges they face.
Unlike crowded city festivals, RTFF offers intimate access to filmmakers, panels, and lively community gatherings beneath the wide-open Texas skies. After a successful inaugural year, the festival is already earning a reputation as a must-attend destination event, and has been compared to the humble beginnings of the Sundance Film Festival– and hailed as “the new Telluride of the South.”
“Round Top has a global soul and a front porch spirit,” says RTFF co-founder and executive director Shanna Schanen. “What makes us stand out is our mix of smart, high-quality programming, wide-open countryside, and the kind of intimate, come-as-you-are atmosphere that turns strangers into friends, and screenings into conversations. With each film, each Q&A, each shared sunset, we’re building a community where creativity thrives and stories matter. RTFF isn’t just a stop on the festival circuit, it’s a destination.”
The festival’s primary screening venue, the Concert Hall at the Round Top Festival Institute, is transformed for the big screen. (Photo by Alice Loayza)
Guests enjoy a block of short film programming at the festival’s secondary screening venue, the Round Top Dance Hall at The 550 District.
Guests enjoyed the Friday night ‘ROCKS’ party at RTFF 2024 held at Market Hill in Round Top. (Photo by Kolton King)
The Sheepdog cast shares a red carpet moment with co-founders, Shanna & Skylar Schanen.
Film screenings will take place inside Festival Hill’s ornate Concert Hall – often hailed by filmmakers as the most breathtaking theater their work will ever be shown in – and at the storied Round Top Dance Hall, where Southern honky-tonk will meet Hollywood again this fall.
Round Top Film Festival Weekend Schedule
Thursday, November 6 – Sunday, November 9
Daily Events:
Thursday, November 6
Round Top Round Up opening night party at Oakbones (Luminary passholders only):
Saturday, November 8
Festival Awards Ceremony: RTFF has both audience & juried awards. They are honored to have the following jurors join RTFF 2025: Leslie Zemeckis, Marc Klein, Marié Botha, Mariel Hemingway, and Meryl Poster (all festival attendees can attend)
RTFF ‘54 (aka Studio 54 Round Top Style) party at Market Hill Sponsored by Murphy Yates Signature Homes (Luminary pass holders only):
The “Women in the Industry” panel was held at the iconic Round Top Dance Hall located at The 550 District, which also served as the film festival’s second screening venue; Photo by Kolton King.
RTFF 2024 Rising Stars, Lilli Kay, Marié Botha & Sasha Lane, hitch a ride with festival sponsor, Porsche; Photo by Ben Porter.
RTFF Rising Star Showcase
Step into the spotlight with Hollywood’s next generation. This special showcase features a handpicked group of actors on the brink of major stardom. These are the performers whose recent roles, from breakout TV shows to scene-stealing turns on the big screen, are turning heads and building momentum toward what we believe will be long, celebrated careers. Join an intimate, moderated conversation as they reflect on the roles that put them on the map, the transitions they’re navigating, and the path ahead. With talent, charisma, and undeniable presence, these rising stars are well on their way to becoming household names – and you’ll be able to say you saw them just before they blew up.
Lens on the Lone Star State: Filmmaking in Texas
From wide-open plains to bustling cities, Texas is full of cinematic potential- but making a film here comes with its own set of challenges. Industry experts will share real-world advice and the practical realities of shooting in Texas, from navigating locations and tax incentives to building the right team and ensuring authentic local representation. Whether you’re new to filmmaking or a seasoned pro, you’ll get practical tips to bring your Texas story to life.
Lights, Camera, Couture: The Influence of Fashion & Film
Costume design is storytelling- shaping characters, setting tone, and reflecting the world around us. From classic Hollywood glamour to modern street style, film and fashion have always influenced each other. This panel explores how on-screen looks inspire real-world trends, reflects cultural shifts, and evolves with new technologies. Whether you’re a designer, filmmaker, or fashion enthusiast, join RTFF for a lively look at how costume design enhances narrative, and continues to shape both cinema and everyday style.
Still Rolling: A State of the Film Industry Conversation
Hollywood is going through big changes- with fresh voices, innovative ideas, and evolving ways of making and sharing stories. This panel dives into what that means for filmmakers today: from accessible creative tools and immersive tech, to shifting studio priorities and the rise of indie creators. Hear about the ripple effects of recent industry strikes, changing audience habits, and the push for more diverse stories- but also opportunities to thrive in a rapidly evolving production landscape. Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the game, this is about how we adapt, create, and move the industry forward together.
From Combat to Camera: Honoring Veteran Voices in Film
This powerful panel explores the journey of military veterans who have transitioned from active service to active storytelling- finding purpose, expression, and community in a new kind of mission. From the battlefield to the backlot, the shared values of discipline, trust, and teamwork create a natural bridge, and sense of camaraderie, between military units and film crews. Hear from veteran filmmakers, writers, and actors who are redefining the narrative by not just telling war stories, but telling their stories. This conversation will explore how the film industry can become a meaningful next chapter for veterans, the challenges and triumphs of translating military experience into creative careers, and why honoring these voices matters now more than ever.
Buy your Round Top Film Festival passes, book your stay in town, and join us for a memorable Texas weekend! For passes and more information, visit here.
