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Borrego Springs Film History

Explore the rich film history of Borrego Springs and Anza-Borrego, California's scenic desert backdrop cherished by filmmakers.

Meet Fred Jee: Your Guide to Borrego's Hidden History

Meet Fred Jee

Your Guide to Borrego's Film History & Future

Fred Jee, a former State Park Ranger and premier location-fixer, is the voice of Borrego Springs Film History, offering expert insights into the area's geography and World War II military history, and providing invaluable guidance for filmmakers seeking authentic desert locations.

Fred Jee's Bio

Learn More About Borrego Springs Film History

January 24, 2025
2025 BSFF Award Winners Announced! The Borrego Springs Film Festival (BSFF) has once again celebrated independent cinema with a fantastic lineup of films and filmmakers. If you missed this year’s festival, here’s your chance to discover the winners who stood out in 2025. Explore the full list below and visit the BSFF website to learn more about these incredible films and the creative minds behind them. Main Juried Competition Winners Best Youth Film Under 18: Guiding Light Best Student Film 18+: Brothers: A Civil War Story Best Short Under 20 Minutes: Twilight Cafe Best Short 20 to 50 Minutes: Teodoro Best Animation: Bulbank Best Documentary Over 30 Minutes: Ultimate Citizens Best Documentary Under 30 Minutes: Beyond the Herd Best International Film: Camping in Paradise Best Feature Film: Last County Additional Categories Competition Best Comedy: Ms. Rossi Best Director Feature: Ian Ebright, The Way We Speak Best Director Short: Darcine’s Day Best Cinematography: Brothers: A Civil War Story Best Editing: Dormant Best Music Score: Ghost Town Best Performance Comedy: Sonia Barbadoro, Ms. Rossi Best Performance Drama: Jane Ives, Gone Before Your Eyes Laara Award (Tie): Ultimate Citizens and Zero Sum Callo Award: Gone Before Your Eyes People’s Choice Awards Best Overall Film: Ms. Rossi 3 Best International: Camping in Paradise Best Animation: Croak Show Best Documentary: The Ship That Turned Back Best Short: Ms. Rossi 3 Best Feature: Stampila The Golden Cookie Awards Best Action Film: Rise of the Fallen Angel, Director Robert Stronger Best Drama: God & Buddha Are Friends, Director Anthony Ma Why BSFF Is Special The Borrego Springs Film Festival is a true celebration of independent cinema. With events like catered galas, filmmaker networking opportunities, panel discussions, red carpet moments, and award ceremonies, it’s more than a festival—it’s a community. Their “traditional film festival” model focuses on connecting film lovers to filmmakers in a personal and encouraging way. Whether you’re attending for the films, the people, or the atmosphere, BSFF offers an unforgettable experience. Discover More Want to see trailers, posters, or learn about the filmmakers? Visit the Borrego Springs Film Festival website and dive into the world of independent film.
December 5, 2024
Support the Magic of Film in Borrego This holiday season, The Borrego Springs Film Institute reflects on a year of cinematic achievements—from free community screenings to their 12th Annual Film Festival . Here’s a heartfelt message from The Borrego Springs Film Institute. If you’re inspired by their work to bring the magic of film to our community, consider signing up for their updates to stay connected and support their mission.
July 2, 2024
Sean Penn photo credit: Chris Pizzello
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Borrego Springs: Your Ideal Filming Destination

Fred Jee was one of the original founding members of the Borrego Springs Film Festival. In this interview on the BSFF podcast he highlights why Borrego Springs is not only the perfect venue for the festival but also an exceptional location for filming your next movie project.


501(c)(3) non-profit organization

The Borrego Springs Film Institute


The Borrego Springs Film Institute (BSFI) is a non-profit organization that enriches the community with diverse year-round programs. It strengthens community engagement, advances arts and culture, and promotes economic growth through film tourism.


The BSFI hosts the renowned Borrego Springs Film Festival every January, celebrating cinematic diversity and regional culture.

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The Borrego Springs Film Festival

The Borrego Springs Film Festival


The Borrego Springs Film Festival celebrates independent cinema each January, set against the stunning backdrop of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

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Learn More About The Borrego Springs Film Festival

Reach out to submit content about the BSFF

December 5, 2024
Support the Magic of Film in Borrego This holiday season, The Borrego Springs Film Institute reflects on a year of cinematic achievements—from free community screenings to their 12th Annual Film Festival . Here’s a heartfelt message from The Borrego Springs Film Institute. If you’re inspired by their work to bring the magic of film to our community, consider signing up for their updates to stay connected and support their mission.
July 2, 2024
Sean Penn photo credit: Chris Pizzello
June 27, 2024
Paul Thomas Anderson's New Film Partially Filmed Around Borrego Springs
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Podcast Interview with Fred Jee: Founder of BSFF

East County Magazine's Interview with Fred Jee the Chairman of the Borrego Springs Film Festival

Read More From The East County Magazine About >> Fred Jee

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