The goal of KINO Film Fest has always been to showcase and support short films and filmmakers in the Pacific Northwest. We accept projects of any genre from across the spectrum in skill level - professional, hobbyist, and student. We want to support the art of filmmaking in the PNW, bringing the community together for an evening of films and discussion.

Our roots stemmed (and continue to grow) from the University of Idaho and its students in the Broadcasting & Digital Media Production and Film & Television degree programs. Each year, UI students in the Advanced Film Production classes plan, write, direct, and produce their own original short films. Student films cover a myriad of genres and often span a range of talents and abilities. KINO has always been the venue to bring an audience to their work.

The festival was founded in 2001 by former University of Idaho faculty member Hans Rosenwinkel. Beginning in 2016, Kino opened up the festival to regional filmmakers, producers, and directors, as well as other University of Idaho students and alumni.