Submit your film

Please review the eligibility requirements and fill out the form in completion below.

To be considered for nomination and participation, submissions must meet the following criteria:

Independent Status

  • Films must be independently produced (not funded or distributed by major studios).

  • Collaborations with independent production companies, grants, or crowd-funding are accepted.

Completion Date

  • Films must have been completed within the last 2 calendar years.

  • Works-in-progress are not eligible unless specifically invited.

Length Requirements

  • Feature Films: Minimum runtime of 60 minutes.

  • Short Films: Maximum runtime of 40 minutes.

Language

  • Non-English films must include English subtitles.

Submission Format

  • Digital screeners must be submitted through an approved platform (E.G. Vimeo).

  • Physical submissions (USBs, DVDs) are not accepted.

Originality

  • The film must be the original work of the applicant(s) and must not infringe on the copyright or rights of others.

Exhibition Rights

  • You must hold all necessary rights for public screening and exhibition, including music, footage, and talent releases.

Premiere Status (Optional)

  • Premiere status is not required, but priority may be given to films that have not yet had wide release or extensive festival exposure.

Age of Entrants

  • Entrants must be 18 years or older, or have a legal guardian submit on their behalf.

Entry Fee

  • If your film is accepted and you are invited to participate in the show, our finance department will contact you to process the $1,250 entry fee. This fee is refunded to you, if you win an award on the night of the show.

What You’ll Receive as a Nominee:

If your film is selected as an official nominee, you’ll be treated to a red-carpet experience. Here's what you can expect:

  • Official Nominee Status

  • Personalized Invitation

  • Red Carpet Access

What You’ll Receive as a Winner:

Winning isn’t just an honor—it’s an experience. As an award winner, you’ll receive:

  • A Prestigious Award Trophy, symbolizing excellence in independent filmmaking, presented live on stage at the Dolby Theatre.

  • A Full Refund of the Nominee Fee, acknowledging your achievement with no cost to you.

  • Travel & Accommodation Coverage: Travel and lodging for you and your guest, covered by the ceremony.

  • Industry Recognition & Media Exposure: Your win will be highlighted in press releases and our global publicity campaign.

  • Feature in a Post-Festival Winner’s Showcase, with your film given special attention in industry circles and online platforms.

  • Lifetime Festival Accreditation, giving you exclusive access to future events, networking opportunities, and industry workshops.

  • Premium Winner's Gift Bag, stocked with high-end products, services, and experiences curated for top-tier creatives.

  • VIP Access to the Private Winner’s Gala, an exclusive after-party with industry executives, celebrity guests, and tastemakers.