Academy Award® and BAFTA qualifying

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REQUIREMENTS

• We factor in previous screenings in Los Angeles County when determining a films selection.

• We prefer films NOT screen in Los Angeles County prior to our festival.

• We prefer films not be available online prior to the festival.

• Films must have been completed after January 1, 2025.

• Non-English films must have English subtitles.

• Works-in-progress are considered, provided they are completed 4 weeks prior to the festival.

• You may submit more than one film, but you must enter each film separately. 

 

DEADLINES

• Early Deadline: February 27, 2026

• Regular Deadline: April 3, 2026

• Extended Deadline: May 1, 2026

• Late Deadline: May 29, 2026

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NOTIFICATION

• Notification Date: June 23, 2026

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FEES

Shorts 40 minutes or under, for each entry:

• Early Deadline: $49

• Regular Deadline: $55

• Extended Deadline: $65 

• Late Deadline: $70​

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• Entry fees are non-refundable.

• Films are not viewed without completed entry form and payment.

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SELECTION

• Film selection for the festival will be made by the screening committee.

• Filmmakers will be notified via email of acceptance.

• We factor in previous screenings in the Los Angeles area when determining a film selection.

• No film may be withdrawn from the festival lineup after selection.

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AWARDS

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ACADEMY AWARD OSCAR® QUALIFYING
BAFTA Qualifying
Canadian Screen Awards Qualifying
Goya Awards Qualifying

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CASH PRIZES

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•  Best of Fest

•  Best International

•  Best Drama

•  Best Comedy

•  Best Animation

•  Best Experimental

•  Best Documentary

•  Best Sci-Fi

•  Best Horror

•  Best Music Video 

•  Best Web Series

•  Best High School Film

•  Best Actor

•  Best Actress