Filmmakers Revive ScorpiusFest Film Festival in Boulder
The independent cinema event returns after a 2026 relaunch by Evan Cannon and Tyson Kroening.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Science Fiction
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Filmmakers Evan Cannon and Tyson Kroening have successfully revived the ScorpiusFest film festival in Boulder. The duo acquired the event from founder Steffon Olsen to ensure the preservation of independent cinema.
Why it matters
The festival was brought back to prioritize organizational stability after participants experienced chaotic operations during the event's original run. Organizers aim to provide a more consistent platform for independent filmmakers moving forward.
The documentary Spectacular by Comparison, which chronicles the festival, holds an 8/10 review score from Film Threat and a 94-minute runtime. The film has earned Best Documentary and Best Feature honors on the festival circuit.
The players
Evan Cannon
He is a filmmaker who co-led the acquisition and relocation of the ScorpiusFest event.
Tyson Kroening
He is a filmmaker who partnered with Evan Cannon to preserve the future of the independent film festival.
Steffon Olsen
He is the original founder of ScorpiusFest who sold the festival rights to the new organizing team.
The details
Spectacular by Comparison, the 94-minute documentary detailing the festival's history and revival, is currently available to stream on Tubi. The film, which carries a TV-MA rating, captures the shift from the festival's original location in Park City, Utah, to its new home in Colorado.
Timeline
The revived ScorpiusFest first took place in 2026.
The festival is scheduled for March 5-7, 2027.
Industry Dynamics
The revival of ScorpiusFest mirrors the ongoing trend of filmmakers taking agency to protect independent distribution channels from institutional volatility. This relocation positions Boulder as a rising niche destination within the broader landscape of independent film circuits.
Viewers can watch the documentary Spectacular by Comparison on Tubi to learn more about the festival's evolution. Local attendees in Boulder can prepare for the upcoming event scheduled at the Dairy Arts Center in March.
The takeaway
Supporting independent festivals provides a vital platform for filmmakers to maintain creative control outside of major studio systems. Enthusiasts can participate in the festival's future by attending the 2027 event or viewing existing documentary coverage of the organization.
What happens next
The festival is scheduled to return to the Dairy Arts Center in Boulder from March 5-7, 2027.
Further reading
For more coverage on regional independent cinema trends, explore the Science Fiction archives.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Yellow Scene Magazine.
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