The Big Apple Film Festival and Screenplay Competition (BAFF) is a long-running New York City-based festival dedicated to showcasing innovative films and discovering new voices in screenwriting. Established over two decades ago, BAFF aims to promote high-quality films from the NYC independent film community, as well as selected works from around the world. The festival honors filmmakers, writers, actors, and artists who have influenced independent filmmaking in New York City, presenting awards across various categories in filmmaking and screenwriting. It offers professional networking opportunities, including conferences and pitch forums that connect independent storytellers with industry professionals. BAFF has been recognized by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the "Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals" and "Top 25 Festivals Worth the Entry Fee."