about us

Heartland Truly Moving Pictures, a non-profit organization (Form 990), was established in 1991 to recognize and honor filmmakers whose work explores the human journey by artistically expressing hope and respect for positive values of life.

The mission of Heartland Truly Moving Pictures is fulfilled through four key programs. All of our programs are designed around the common goal of recognizing and promoting filmmakers and the films they create that inspire, educate and engage - taking entertainment to a higher level.

Truly Moving Picture Award
By bestowing a watermark to these honored films, the award allows studios and distributors to inform audiences of a film's uplifting message and appeal.

Heartland Film Festival
The ten-day Festival offers moviegoers screening of independent films and special events for film enthusiasts of all ages. Every year, the Festival awards $200,000 in cash prizes and presents its Crystal Heart Awards to the Festival's top-judged submissions. Heartland has awarded more than $2 million to support filmmakers during the last 17 years.

Education Programming
This includes the Heartland Film Institute, a year-round program that involves educating aspiring filmmakers including high school and college students in the art and craft of filmmaking and providing them with the necessary tools to create their own inspiring films.

National Partnerships
Heartland reaches out to like-minded individuals, communities and organizations that share our commitment to celebrating films that enrich lives. This includes the F.I.L.M. (Finding Inspiration in Literature & Movies) Project.