Submit Your Film

Submission Guidelines

Film Type & Duration

• Accepted Formats: Narrative films, documentaries, animations, experimental films, and student films
• Maximum Duration: 40 minutes (including end credits)
• Completion Date: Films must be completed by the submission deadline

Language Requirements

• Non-English films must include English subtitles
• Films without subtitles will not be considered for selection
• Subtitles should be embedded in the video file or provided as a separate SRT file

Premiere Status

• Premiere status is not required
• Previously screened or released films are eligible
• We welcome films that have participated in other festivals

Technical Requirements

File Specifications

• Format: MP4 or MOV files
• Resolution: 1080p minimum (1920x1080)
• Frame Rate: 24fps, 25fps, or 30fps
• Aspect Ratio: 16:9 preferred, other ratios accepted
• File Size: Maximum 5GB per submission

Screening Format

• Selected films will be screened in DCP format
• The festival may convert files to the desired format if necessary
• Filmmakers are responsible for ensuring high-quality source files

Required Materials

Essential Documents

• Film Synopsis: Maximum 100 words describing your film's story and themes
• Director's Biography: Maximum 50 words highlighting your background and experience
• Director's Statement: Brief explanation of your creative vision and inspiration
• Cast & Crew List: Complete list of key personnel involved in the production

Visual Materials (Recommended)

• High-resolution promotional stills (minimum 300 DPI)
• Film poster or key art (if available)
• Behind-the-scenes photos
• Director's headshot

Submission Process

How to Submit

• All films must be submitted through our official website or designated email address
• Create an account on our submission platform
• Upload your film and all required materials
• Complete the submission form with accurate information
• Pay the submission fee to complete your application

Submission Fees

• Early Bird (Before July 15, 2025): £25
• Regular (July 16 - August 15, 2025): £35
• Late (August 16 - September 1, 2025): £45
• Student Rate: 50% discount with valid student ID
• All submission fees are non-refundable

Important Dates

• Early Bird Deadline: July 15, 2025
• Regular Deadline: August 15, 2025
• Final Deadline: September 1, 2025
• Notification Date: September 5, 2025
• Festival Dates: September 20-25, 2025

Selection Criteria

What We Look For

• Originality and Creativity: Innovative storytelling and unique artistic expression
• Emotional Impact: Films that resonate with audiences and create lasting impressions
• Technical Quality: Professional standards in cinematography, editing, and sound design
• Director's Vision: Clear artistic voice and compelling narrative ability
• Cultural Relevance: Stories that reflect contemporary issues or timeless human experiences

Legal Requirements

Copyright and Ownership

• Filmmakers must own the copyright to their film or have all necessary licenses
• All music, images, and other copyrighted materials must be properly cleared
• The festival is not responsible for copyright or intellectual property disputes

Promotional Usage

• The festival reserves the right to use film stills, trailers, and excerpts (up to 30 seconds) for promotional purposes
• Usage includes festival marketing, social media, and press materials
• No commercial use of submitted materials beyond festival promotion

After Submission

Selection Process

• All submissions are reviewed by our selection committee
• Films are evaluated based on artistic merit and technical quality
• Selected filmmakers will be notified by September 5, 2025
• Screening schedule will be provided to selected participants

If Your Film is Selected

• Free festival pass for the director
• Invitation to attend screenings and networking events
• Opportunity to participate in Q&A sessions
• Eligibility for all festival awards
• Promotional support through festival marketing channels

By submitting a film, filmmakers agree to all terms and conditions outlined above. For questions or assistance, please contact us at [email protected]