Here’s the deal…
ABOUT
The New York Comedy Film Festival (NYCFF) celebrates all things comedy, bringing together filmmakers, comedians, and fans in the heart of Manhattan. Our week-long event features a mix of feature films, documentaries, TV pilots, short films, and live performances, showcasing the creativity and talent in comedy. NYCFF is a place for both emerging and seasoned comedic voices to connect, collaborate, and share their work with an audience that loves to laugh. Join us in celebrating the excitement and power of comedy!
MISSION
Our mission is to unite and showcase innovative comedic voices through film and live performances, creating unforgettable experiences that inspire and build connections that transcend the stage and screen.
WHEN: Feb 15 – Feb 22, 2026
WHERE: Asylum NYC, Flatiron District
WHY: Finally, a film festival dedicated solely to comedy! Because everyone needs a good laugh, we celebrate humor in all its forms, putting comedy first.
WHAT: NYCFF is a week-long celebration of comedy, featuring world film premieres, live performances, retrospectives, table readings, Q & A’s, parties and a global streaming portal. We unite people through laughter and showcase the power of comedy to entertain, inspire, and spark conversation.
WHO: A team of seasoned entertainment professionals united by a passion for film and comedy. With over 100 years of combined experience in film, comedy, event marketing, and business management, we take comedy seriously—but never ourselves.
Norm Laviolette - CEO -Founder of Improv Asylum, creator of iconic companies like Laugh comedy clubs and Asylum Team Building, and sought-after keynote speaker on using improv to drive innovation and growth.
Bob Melley - COO - Chief Development Officer of Asylum Companies, overseeing global operations, corporate relations, and business development, with experience in entertainment and technology.
Jess Domain - CCO - Creative strategist, corporate event operations expert, nonprofit marketing consultant, entertainment industry professional, Off-Broadway writer, performer, dancer and musician, with experience in publishing, touring and licensing.
Steve Eliau - CBO - Journalist, Screenwriter, Producer, and Business Executive in the fashion and film industries, including roles as CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Manhattan Movie Magazine and partner at The Circuit NYC, organizing high-profile events.