#ScreenOpps
FILM FESTIVALS
Warped Witch Film Festival
Warped Witch (formerly Southern Gothic) is a dynamic film festival led by women which empowers filmmakers in our community. We value inclusivity above all else, welcoming filmmakers from diverse backgrounds with open arms. We provide a platform for their unique perspectives and embrace the weird, the strange, the unorthodox, and the unconventional. Our mission is to celebrate the beauty of diversity and encourage everyone to dare to be different! Go beyond the norm! While the roots of our festival remain in the essence of horror, we go beyond the boundaries showcasing films from all genres! All types of cinematic expressions are welcomed! Filmmakers who attend will get the opportunity to network and mingle with other filmmakers during the fest. We will also have a Q&A session after every block so you will get to speak about your films to an audience of film lovers! We want to be able to include other artists in our festival as well. There will be artists vending in the lobby and the entertainment will be provided by our amazing local drag community! Costumes are highly encouraged! Come out and have a spooky good time with us!
o When/Where: June 12-13
o Deadline: August 4 (Early Bird Deadline), December 17 (Regular Deadline), March 3 (Dead Deadline)
o Application Fee: $10-$40
o Eligibility: Film submissions must be provided on digital files.
Submissions must be English language or English subtitled.
Include title and name of contact on all media.
Southern Scream Film Festival reserves the right to change submission categories.
Eligibility and category determinations, along with prize awards, are the sole discretion of the Festival.
Submissions may be screened more than once during the Festival and at events post festival.
All films must be under 20 minutes.
o Categories: Short Film, Feature Film, Student Film
California Women's Film Festival (Winter)
The California Women's Film Festival is deeply honored to celebrate women filmmakers, artists and writers by providing a showcase and networking forum in the heart of Hollywood. The CWFF understands how important it is to hear and see the educated, entertaining and diverse stories of women from around the globe. We provide a platform so these voices can be heard and shared with audiences that want to be inspired. The California Women's Film Festival accepts all projects that has at least one woman in one of the key production positions: (Producer, Director, Writer, Cinematographer, Editor, Lead Actress, Etc......). Projects that are produced and/or directed by men are accepted as long as there is a lead female protagonist and/or the story is based around women. The California Women's Film Festival operates as a biannual event. Our Winter season will be held in January and our Summer season will be held in July.
o When/Where: January 9-11
o Deadline: August 1 (Regular Deadlie), August 22nd (Regular Deadline), September 12 (Late Deadline), October 3 (Extended Deadline), October 24 (Freeway Deadline), November 14 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $36-$60
o Eligibility: California Women's Film Festival General Rules
Projects must have at least one woman in one of the key production positions: (Producer, Director, Writer, Cinematographer, Lead Actress, Etc......).
Projects that are produced and/or directed by men are accepted as long as there is a lead female protagonist and/or the story is based around women.
All genres are accepted.
Works in progress should be clearly marked on the screening copy.
Submissions in languages other than English must be subtitled or dubbed.
The entry fee is per category.
Entry fee is non-refundable.
Fee waivers are not available.
DVDs must clearly be labeled with FilmFreeway tracking ID and contact info.
Our Festival will consist of Award presentations, red carpet photos, screenings and Q&A sessions.
For more information please contact us at info@calwomensfest.com
Please do not send paper press kits with your screener unless requested.
DVDs will not be returned.
o Categories: Short Film, Feature Film, Documentary, Animated, Script
New York Short Cinema Awards
Welcome to the New York Short Cinema Awards! The IMDb-qualifying short film festival, established at the Producers Club of NY by a group of international indie filmmakers, critics, journalists, and writers, champions the art of short filmmaking across all genres. It bridges emerging filmmakers with seasoned professionals and audiences, enriching the independent cinema scene. The festival honors diverse short films from both American and international creators, celebrating independent storytelling and innovation. The New York Short Cinema Awards supports cinema and short film production, selecting a variety of films in genres such as drama, documentary, experimental, and animation. These films inspire audiences and spark dialogue during screenings at the Producers Club and art centers in New York. The festival encourages discussions on contemporary themes, solidifying its status as a significant event in the indie film calendar. Short cinema is our specialty, and over the past few years, we have showcased short films in drama, documentary, animation, comedy, experimental, and science fiction genres during our live annual screening events in New York. We also host a script competition for short screenwriters. We are committed to recognizing short cinema.
o When/Where: October 19-20
o Deadline: August 22nd (Regular Deadline), September 26 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $30-$45
o Eligibility: There are no production date restrictions for films.
Short Films must not exceed 40 minutes.
New York premiere is preferred for our annual screening but not required.
Participants are responsible for their content and copyright issues.
The films must have English subtitles if the original language is not English.
We may promote official selections and nominees on social media and various platforms using provided press kits.
o Categories: Short Film
Wicked Queer: Docs
Started in 2022, WQ: docs fills the need for a platform to share histories and power up the Queer nonfiction film. WQ: Docs is committed to celebrating the documentary form in both short and feature length. Our mission is to build community and to celebrate Queer storytelling and filmmaking through the uplifting of voices and stories not yet heard and to present and preserve the vibrancy of our histories.
o When/Where: November 14-16
o Deadline: August 31 (Regular Deadline), September 20 (Late Deadline), October 11 (Extended Deadline)
o Application Fee: $20-$75
o Eligibility: We prefer that preview submissions be submitted as digital online screeners. Filmmakers are required upon acceptance to have a COMPLETE press kit assembled with stills labeled with the film's name and poster images, trailer, synopsis, log line and social media handles. Moving toward our goal of becoming more accessible, all films, including English language, that are accepted must have a closed caption file with English CAPTIONS included DCP with an MP4 with Closed captions back-up. WE DO REQUIRE A DCP FILE FOR IN PERSON EXHIBITION. No other files types will be accepted.
o Categories: Documentary Feature, Documentary Short
Valkyrie International Film Festival
Valkyrie International Film Festival (VIFF) spotlights films directed by women of all backgrounds and advances the cause of women in film. Held every year in March (Women's History Month), VIFF was founded by Tamar Lamberson and her daughter, Kaelin Lamberson. VIFF seeks impactful films in all genres. If a woman directed it, we want to see it! VIFF will screen narrative, documentary, and experimental shorts and features. The only requirement is that every film selected for screening must have been directed by a woman. VIFF will be held on Thursday, March 21st - Monday, March 25th, 2024 at The Screening Room Cinema & Arts Café, a boutique digital cinema located in Amherst, New York, just outside Buffalo. The Screening Room features a large screen and surround sound, with mixed dining room and theater seating. The venue is a staple of the indie film scene in Western New York. Beer and wine are available. VIFF will only hold in-person screenings. VIFF will serve as a platform for female directors to come together, support each other's work, and discuss the challenges and advances of women in film. The programmers will present awards, but view the event as a celebration rather than a competition. VIFF will be held during Women's History Month each year. We are accepting all female-directed films, of all genres, completed 2019 – present.
o When/Where: May 29 - June 2
o Deadline: August 31 (Early Bird Deadline), November 30 (Regular Deadline), March 6(Late Deadline), April 6 (Extended Deadline)
o Application Fee: $18-$50
o Eligibility: NO WAIVERS.
Only films directed by females will be selected.
Any co-directors must also be female.
Films must be in English or subtitled in English.
All exhibition screeners must be MP4 digital files .
All films must have been completed 2019 – present.
Anyone submitting a film to VIFF warrants that they are authorized to do so.
o Categories: Short Film, Feature, Documentary, Animation. Experimental, Music Video
New Jersey Film Festival - Spring
The Rutgers Film Co-op/New Jersey Media Arts Center proudly announces the 44th Bi-Annual New Jersey Film Festival. The Festival will be held between January 23 - February 15, 2026 at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey and will showcase the best in independent film by featuring premiere screenings, special guest appearances by film directors, screenwriters, cast and crew and more. For more information go to www.njfilmfest.com or e-mail NJMAC@aol.com or newjerseyfilmfestival@gmail.com
o When/Where: January 23 - February 15
o Deadline: August 8 (Regular Deadline), August 28 (Extended Deadline), September 18 (Late Deadline), October 10 (Super Late Deadline)
o Application Fee: $40-$85
o Eligibility: This competition is open to U.S. and International entries. Maximum film age is 24 months. No repeat entries. If a work is selected for public screening entrants are contractually obligated to provide an exhibition copy suitable for screening and cannot withdraw their film from the festival. Entry must be a New Jersey or Area Premiere and must not be available to view in full on the internet! Please note we do not pay screening fees. Only finalists are notified in advance that their work has been selected to be part of the Festival.
o Categories: Short Film, Feature, Documentary, Animation
Beirut International Women Film Festival
Beirut International Women Film Festival (BWFF) is an annual event organized in Beirut by Beirut Film Society, under the theme "Women for Change"; gathering filmmakers and cinema lovers from all over the world, BWFF tackles issues such gender equality, sexual identity, domestic violence among others through the power of the lens and cinema which is the window to society and particularly women in this case. BWFF, which comprises films about women and/or executed by women, aims to highlight the power of women in different life situations, the festival organizers believe in promoting a positive image of women struggling with dignity to make a change in their environment.
o When/Where: August 19-25
o Deadline: August 5 (Active Submitter Deadline), September 5 (Midway to the Festival), October 5 (End of Summer Submissions), November 5 (Regular Deadline), December 5 (Late Deadline), February 5 (Exceptional Submissions)
o Application Fee: $7-$45
o Eligibility: Filmmakers are invited to submit their original work to Beirut International Women Film Festival (BWFF) for the above listed categories and as per the assigned duration of each category.
FILMS PRODUCED AFTER JANUARY 1, 2020 ARE ELIGIBLE FOR SUBMISSION.
FOR INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILMS SUBMISSIONS, LEBANESE PREMIERE IS A MUST – FEATURE FILMS THAT WERE SCREENED PREVIOUSLY IN LEBANON WON'T BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.
BWFF supports travel cost for directors of selected international films to Lebanon during the festival days. (Conditions apply)
Submission fees are non refundable and non reimbursable under any circumstances; BWFF does not reimburse any submission fees for films who are not selected for the festival program, or who withdrew their submissions at any time.
BWFF retains the right to accept or decline any film, for whatever reason, without any explanation.
Applicant admits that he/she is authorized to submit the film, being the rights-holder or authorized representative of the film.
BWFF receives exhibition copy in QuickTime 1080p HD 8 bit uncompressed or Apple ProRes file or equivalent via a downloadable link.
All non-English speaking films must have adequate English subtitles.
Screening fees must be declared prior to or upon submission. If a screening fee is only indicated after the official selection has been announced, the Festival retains the right to revoke the film's acceptance.
Beirut International Women Film Festival (BWFF) holds the right to:
Use the selected films for trailers and publicity usage
Screen the winning films in other related events inside Lebanon, and recommend the winning films to other international film festivals that collaborate with BWFF after the approval of the filmmakers.
o Categories: Shorts, Feature Film, Documentary, Animated
Winter Film Festival Awards International Film Festival NYC
New York City's Winter Film Awards (WFA) is a volunteer-run and operated celebration of the diversity of local and international film-making. Our Mission is to recognize excellence in cinema and to promote learning and artistic expression for people at all stages of their artistic careers with a focus on nurturing emerging filmmakers and helping them gain recognition and contacts to break into this difficult industry. We pride ourselves on our diverse collection of Festival selections, allowing our audience to enjoy films they normally wouldn't think to seek out. Now in its eleventh year, the rapidly growing Festival showcases the work of emerging filmmakers from around the world. For the 2021 Festival, 91
films from 28 countries were screened, including an eclectic mix of Animated films, Documentaries, Feature narratives, Horror films, Music Videos, Narrative shorts and Web series. 50% of the films were created by women, 53% were created by or about people of color. Works of all genres, forms, and lengths are considered. All selected films are screened at Cinema Village, NYC's top indie cinema in the heart of Greenwich Village. The Festival includes ten days of film screenings, educational panels, professional development workshops and industry networking after-parties, which will conclude with a glittering awards ceremony . Outstanding work will be awarded for each category, along with Best Director, Best Actor/Actress, Outstanding Woman Director, Best vStudent Film and the NY PERSPECTIVES Award for best depiction of the New York multi-cultural experience. Winter Film Awards International Film Festival is an IMDB-qualifying festival. Like many of the great film Festivals across the country and the world, WFA seeks to bring our audience compelling and unique content that inspires the viewers and honors the filmmakers. There are hundreds of film festivals in New York City; what makes us different is our intense focus on a bias-free submissions review, the variety of our films and helping new filmmakers reach what may be their first real audience. WFA is a minority- and women-owned registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We work with all local NYC film schools, colleges, arts high schools and many cultural societies.
o When/Where: February 18-22
o Deadline: September 12 (Early Bird Deadline), October 17 (Regular Deadline), November 14 (Late Deadline)
o Application Fee: $20-$65
o Eligibility: All films must have been completed not earlier than January 1, 2020.
Films must be in English or have English subtitles Winter Film Awards is a non-profit organization and we do not pay Screening Fees Films must be submitted via online screener - we do not accept hardcopies of DVDs
Winter Film Awards does not require World Premiere, but appreciates if you notify us if you are either a World Premiere, International Premiere (your first premiere outside your country of origin), North American Premiere or New York Premiere.
Submission fees are in U.S. dollars, per film entry. All submissions for Winter Film Awards International Film Festival are to be paid by credit card. The submission fee is non-refundable.
Submitting filmmakers/individuals will be notified by e-mail on or before January 5 2023. If the Festival will be postponed due to COVID-19, we will notify all submitters as soon as possible. Winter Film Awards does not send physical mail — please make sure the email address in your entry form is accurate. Changes of email address can be sent to submissions@winterfilmawards.com. Winter Film Awards is not liable for emails delayed by spam filters, server rejections, outdated email addresses or any other technical or human error. If an accepted filmmaker is unable to submit the final screening copy of the film electronically, the filmmaker will be responsible for the mailing/shipping cost of the work for screening at the film festival. Films with incomplete materials by the deadline will forfeit their ability to screen in the festival. Winter Film Awards, its members, directors, employees, and volunteers are not responsible for lost, unplayable, misplaced, and undelivered film and media.
Submitted entry materials will not be returned.
A filmmaker with multiple entries (titles) must submit each entry and entry fee separately.
The Festival reserves the right to remove a film from the festival program for any reason or for no reason and shall not be liable for any refund or claims of any kind arising out of such removal.
The submitting filmmaker must own the copyright to the work. In the case of any legal dispute involving the film, Winter Film Awards will immediately remove the work from our schedule.
By submitting your film, Winter Film Awards is hereby granted the right to utilize an excerpt from any film submitted and accepted for exhibition at the Festival for promotional purposes. The individual or corporation submitting the film hereby warrants that it is authorized to commit the film for screening, and understands and accepts these requirements and regulations.
You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Winter Film Awards from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses (including but not limited to attorney's fees, and costs of the court) which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits, publicity, screening, and loss of or damage to the screening videos entered.
o Categories: Shorts, Feature Film, Documentary, Animated
The Other Lens
The Other Lens, a short film program designed to champion emerging filmmakers who are creating innovative cinematic work that challenges convention. With our theme of "The Other Lens", we wanted to explore distinctions from ingrained normativity, whether it be ethnic, racial, sexual, or expression, to foster empathy and create positive social change. By embracing everyone's otherness, we hope both filmmakers and viewers recognize that through collaboration and vulnerability, we can blur the lines of separation and reimagine the boundaries. The Other Lens is a celebration of independent filmmaking, radical storytelling, and communal vision-building. We invite work that centers personal truth, challenges mainstream narratives, and reflects a deep commitment to creative freedom. This inaugural event is produced by Project Feel, a multimedia production company rooted in art and creative accessibility, and seeks to bring together a new generation of storytellers who use a thought-provoking, visionary lens to make an impact on the world. We aim to shift the needle of the industry and are excited to spotlight films from artists of color, queer creatives, diasporic storytellers, and experimental voices who blur genre, form, and expectation
o When/Where: November 6
o Deadline: July 14 (Early Bird Deadline), August 4 (Regular Deadline), September 1 (Late Deadline)
o Application Fee: $10-20
o Eligibility: Short films (any genre) 20 mins and under
Focused on themes of identity, imagination, resistance, or re-connection
Works in any language other than English must have English subtitles at the time of submission
o Categories: Short
Divine Feminine Film Fest
The Divine Feminine Film Fest is a yearly event that features creative work by women and non-binary artists. The focus of this festival is to highlight and celebrate women in all of their magic, mystery, and creativity.
o When/Where: October 16-17
o Deadline: September 30 (Regular Deadline)
o Application Fee: $22-30
o Eligibility: To submit, you must owns the rights to your submission.
All projects submitted to us may be screened/displayed at our official event.
Posters and/or trailers of your film may be used on our social media platforms to promote the festival and your film.
All films/music videos must be submitted in English or with English subtitles.
Posters are required for your film in order to promote this screening.
o Categories: Feature, Short, Documentary
Lavender Riot Film Festival: An Unapologetic LGTBQ+ Film Fest
First Ever LGBTQ+ Film Festival in Clarksville, Tennessee on October 2. The festival will showcase local LGBTQ+ filmmakers, directors, producers, and actors. The event will be help on APSU campus and off campus at various locations through downtown. The event kicks off at 10am and carriers on until 9pm.
o When/Where: October 17-18
o Deadline: July 28 (Early Bird Deadline), August 25 (Regular Deadline)
o Application Fee: $5
o Eligibility: We are looking for LOCAL LGBTQ+ individuals to showcase their work. We ask the submissions follow time length rules and that artists be flexible with times of presenting on the day of the Festival. We ask that filmmakers be present when their film is being shown. Time slots will be chosen by the board of the Lavender Riot Film Festival.
o Categories: Feature, Short, Documentary
Miami Jewish Film Festival
The Miami Jewish Film Festival (MJFF) is recognized as the world's largest Jewish film festival dedicated to celebrating new film and media exploring universal themes of identity, history, and culture. Presenting its 29th edition from January 15-29, 2026, the Festival showcases the work of the world's best emerging and established filmmakers and offers awards in juried competition categories. Among the 134 films that premiered at the 2025 Festival which featured the largest Jewish film program in the world, more than 50 were selected from FilmFreeway submissions. Miami Jewish Film Festival has also made the prestigious "One of the 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee" list by MovieMaker Magazine in 2020, 2021, and 2022. In 2025, the Miami Jewish Film Festival drew more than 58,000 filmgoers and attracted more than 100 filmmakers, producers, talent, and industry professionals to its two-week event of inspiring films, events, panels, and parties that are hosted at 8 major venues throughout Miami. In all, the Festival presents more than 134 feature narratives, documentaries, and short films of all genres, from more than 25 different countries. MJFF presents dramatic and documentary features, experimental, and animated features and shorts about Jewish history, culture, and identity as well as films that reflect life through a Jewish lens. The programming staff takes a broad view of what makes a film Jewish and have been known to curate films that are Jew(ish) as well as films about issues that are relevant to Jewish communities and resonate with other cultural communities across the globe. Works in all forms and genres are considered. The Festival receives significant industry recognition; each year several films premiering at the Festival are acquired for US distribution. Recent distributors who have acquired films directly from the Festival include Kino Lorber, Greenwich Entertainment, Samuel Goldwyn Films, Netflix, Menemsha Films, Film Movement, Briarcliff Entertainment, Breaking Glass Pictures, and Go2Films, among many others.
o When/Where: January 15-29
o Deadline: July 7 (Midway Deadline), August 1 (Regular Deadline), September 5 (Fall Deadline), October 3 (Extended Deadline), November 7 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $18-$40
o Eligibility: MJFF requires at least a Florida Premiere for any feature or short film. Works-in-progress are accepted.
o Categories: Feature, Documentary, Short
Everybody is Somebody
The Albuquerque Film Festival, with the mantra 'Everybody is Somebody,' stands as a beacon of digital celebration for the world's storytellers. Nestled in the heart of New Mexico's vibrant capital, Albuquerque, our festival opens its doors wide, welcoming a kaleidoscope of cinematic talent from every corner of the globe. Dive into the fray with your masterpieces, as we call for submissions across all film genres; there's a spotlight here for every creator, regardless of nationality. It's your time to shine, to vie for prestigious awards across a multitude of categories. Let's unite. Let's craft. Let's rejoice. Boasting a spectrum as broad as the imagination itself, our festival invites you to join an esteemed circle, where selected films don't just screen—they compete for a host of distinctions, bestowed both by our expert panel and the audience's voice. Rest assured, every entry is given the attentive gaze it deserves. As seasoned filmmakers, we resonate with the dedication poured into your craft. That's why we elevate Officially Selected films with a spotlight dialogue—up to 10 minutes of in-depth conversation about your creative journey, shared on our official website, YouTube channel, and across social media landscapes. Our committee is as varied as the films we celebrate, featuring a global tapestry of professionals—Architects to Entrepreneurs, Artists to Filmmakers, and VFX Producers—each bringing a unique perspective to the screen. Every submission is watched thoroughly, ensuring your vision is seen and appreciated in its entirety. Our Goals:To broadcast fresh, trailblazing narratives and cinematic discourse from across the world.To offer an exclusive glimpse into the pioneering realm of New Cinema.To foster the exchange of ideas and experiences among our event's vibrant participants. Our Creed: We are the champions of the cinematic dreamer, the believers in the power of story. The 'Everybody is Somebody' Albuquerque Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing the most diverse array of narratives. Our mission? To empower every filmmaker with a burning passion, to connect creators with audiences, and to help solidify their mark in the ever-expanding universe of film.
o When/Where: March 27-29
o Deadline: July 7 (Deadline 4), August 4 (Deadline 6), September 1 (Deadline 7), October 6 (Deadline 8), November 3 (Deadline 9), December 1 (Deadline 10), February 9 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $15-25
o Eligibility: We accept all fiction and non-fiction film genres. All age groups are accepted. Projects submitted must be the original work of the participant. All submission will be received through Film Freeway only. No Exceptions.
o Categories: Feature, Short, Animated, Documentary, Music Video
Mix NYC Queer Experimental Film Festival
MIX NYC (est. 1987) is a nonprofit organization that promotes, produces, and preserves experimental media that speaks to the lives, politics, and experiences of LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. Born from the need for a home for queer experimental films, we are committed to providing opportunities for filmmakers to showcase their work to a community that deeply values it. Our work challenges mainstream notions of gender and sexuality while redefining traditional categories of form and content.
o When/Where: November 20-22
o Deadline: June 1 (Early Bird Deadline), July 1 (Regular Deadline), August 1 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $15-$45
o Eligibility: We're always searching for bold, original, and powerful stories that reflect the diverse perspectives of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Our festival offers a platform for filmmakers, artists, and creators to showcase their work, connect with audiences, and participate in meaningful cultural dialogue. In light of our mandate, we only consider submissions that:
Are created by queer filmmakers and/or involve queer concepts, subjects, or themes.
Challenge conventional filmmaking practices.
o Categories: Experimental Film
Los Angeles Women in Film Festival
The LA Women in Film Festival champions female identifying filmmakers and female driven storytelling. We will be accepting submissions from FEMALE IDENTIFYING DIRECTORS, WRITERS, MAJORITY FEMALE CREW (at least 50%) and/or FEMALE DRIVEN STORIES of ANY GENRE. We are an affiliate festival of the LA FILM FESTIVALS organization that has the dual emphasis of discovering great talent with the purpose of promoting their work to both the LA public and the entertainment industry, as well as showcasing the work of seasoned professionals and well known stars. LA Film Festivals began with the biannual LA Comedy Festival in 2001, adding the biannual LA Indie Film Fest in 2007. The LA Film Festival family has since expanded to 12 independent film festivals, including LA Horror Film Fest, LA Action Film Fest, LA Sci-Fi Film Fest, LA Animation Film Fest, LA Black Film Fest, LA Asian Film Fest, LA Latinx Film Fest, LA Queer Film Fest, LA Women in Film Fest and LA Student Film Fest. Over the years, LA Film Festivals have attracted thousands of filmmakers from around the world. Each festival features live screenings in our own Let Live Theater in the heart of Los Angeles. Our 80-seat theater, in the heart of Hollywood, is outfitted with a Christie DLP projector and seven JBL speakers throughout the venue, delivering top notch quality in an intimate screening environment. Filmmakers whose work is accepted into our festival will receive free passes to screenings, invitations to networking events and are eligible for awards consideration.
o When/Where: November 13-16
o Deadline: June 13 (Regular Deadline), July 4 (Late Deadline), July 25 (Fashionably Late Deadline), August 15 (Final Deadline), September 5 (11th Hour Deadline), September 26 (Last Chance Deadline)
o Application Fee: $25-$90
o Eligibility: All Films must feature work produced by female identifying filmmakers and female driven storytelling. We will be accepting submissions from FEMALE IDENTIFYING DIRECTORS, WRITERS, MAJORITY FEMALE CREW (at least 50%) and/or FEMALE DRIVEN STORIES of ANY GENRE.
o Categories: Feature, Short, Document, Web-series, TV Pilot, Animation, Music Video
o Contact: https://www.lafilmfestivals.com/la-women-in-film-fest
Big Apple Film Festival
Big Apple Film Festival is currently accepting film and screenplay submissions for our fall festival. Big Apple Film Festival (Fall Edition) takes place November 18-21 in the heart of NYC. In addition to film screenings, the festival includes a Screenplay Competition, Agents and Managers Conference, Agents and Managers Networking Lab, Film Distribution Summit, Industry Networking Panels, Awards Presentation and Reception.
o When/Where: November 10-13
o Deadline: June 10 (Film Freeway Discount Deadline), June 30 (BAFF Discount Deadline), July 22 (Final Discount Deadline), August 12 (Film Freeway Early Deadline), September 3 (BAFF Early Deadline), September 23 (Official Entry Deadline, October 10 (Final Entry Deadline)
o Application Fee: $60-$90
o Eligibility: Big Apple Film Festival accepts submissions for feature films, short films, feature documentaries, short documentaries, animation, web series, music videos, student films, feature length screenplays, short screenplays, scripts for television/web series pilots and virtual reality.
o Categories: (Narrative Feature, Documentary Feature, Environmental Outdoor Feature, Indigenous Feature, Narrative Short, Documentary Short, Outdoor Short, Animated Short)
New York Film Week
We are an international film festival taking place in October each year. The 6th edition runs from October 23 — 27 2024 in NY, a city that breathes film in every possible way. Our goal is to raise awareness and promote the various aspects of international cinema in all its forms. Previous Premieres include movies from Laura Poitras, Armando Iannucci, Noah Baumbach, Wash Westmoreland, Martin Scorsese, Takashi Miike, Céline Sciamma, Yolande Zauberman, Lee Chang-dong, Kelly Reichardt, Andrea Arnold, Christophe Honoré and many more. First-time and established filmmakers are being selected and every film genre is considered. The festival only shows bold and iconic content, something to remember. We look forward to reviewing your entry.
o When/Where: October 29 - November 2
o Deadline: June 23 (Regular Deadline), September 8 (Late Deadline), September 29 (Extended Deadline)
o Application Fee: $35-$70
o Eligibility: New York Film Week is being held from October 23rd to October 27th, 2024. The Festival takes place annually in the second half of October. The aim of the Festival is to raise awareness and promote the various aspects of international cinema in all its forms: as art, entertainment, and as an industry, in a spirit of freedom and dialogue. In addition to the sections mentioned in the following paragraphs, the Festival also organizes special events such as film workshops and industry days.
o Categories: Feature, Short, Animated, Documentary
Lady Filmmakers Festival
Lady Filmmakers Festival is a trend-setting and forward-thinking film festival known by veteran Hollywood insiders and rising indie filmmakers alike for screening outstanding films from around the world and having top notch speakers and networking events. Lady Filmmakers is dedicated to creating a fun and fulfilling festival experience. All festival events take place in the world-famous Beverly Hills, California. In 2021, we hosted in-person screenings in Beverly Hills as well as virtual screenings available worldwide. We also launched the Lady Filmmakers Channel in Spring 2021 accessible online and through devices such as Apple TV, Roku, and more will be added to maximize availability to showcase alumni films from prior festivals. 2020 included virtual screenings and events as well as a Myrtle Beach, South Carolina drive-in. Lady Filmmakers celebrates women in leadership roles and the men that hire, work with, and work for these talented female storytellers. The week long festival includes film screenings, script readings, musical performances, art exhibitions, industry panels, networking events and of course hosted parties with live entertainment! Online festival will take place over a minimum of 1 week with virtual events leading up to the festival and during. Lady Filmmakers looks for great storytelling in any genre and length! At least one woman must fill the role of Writer, Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Production Designer and/or Editor to qualify to screen at our festival. Our main programming themes are: *Ladies Illuminate- documentaries, social awareness, or family issue films *Ladies Kick Butt- action, comedies, or experimental films *Dance- music videos and dance films *Family Friendly- films appropriate for families with children *Halloween Teasers- horror, thrillers, scary, creepy, and/or freaky films Short Screenplay finalists will get a staged reading in front of a live audience at the festival. One or more shorts may be optioned to participate in the Script 2 Screen Program. Feature Screenplay finalists will be offered a taped table read of their script. The festival will provide the space and refreshments for the table read along with assisting the writer with finding a director for the reading and helping with casting. Musician finalists are invited to perform at one of the parties during the festival. Art finalists are invited to exhibit art during one of the festival events.Long after the festival is complete we continue to promote our "Alumni" filmmakers, cast, and crew throughout the year!
.o When/Where: September 25-30
o Deadline: July 23 (Final Deadline), August 14 (Oops I forgot Deadline)
o Application Fee: $67.50-$140
o Eligibility: FILM SUBMISSIONS- At least one woman must be credited in one of the following positions in each selected film: Writer, Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Production Designer, and/or Editor.
o Categories: Feature Film, Documentary, Short Film, Documentary Shorts
GRRL HAUS CINEMA
GRRL HAUS CINEMA is a 𝗻𝗼𝗻𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗺 𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹, 𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 dedicated to showcasing the short film works by 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻, 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀, 𝗻𝗼𝗻-𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗾𝘂𝗲𝗲𝗿 filmmakers in experimental, low-budget-, and underground cinema. By promoting creativity and diverse expression through film, we provide a platform for emerging filmmakers and those without easy access to funding, creating a space for underrepresented voices in cinema. GRRL HAUS is dedicated to inclusivity and celebrates 𝗗𝗜𝗬 𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲, because we think it's important to share works by diverse filmmakers across various audiences, from international museums to underground clubs.
o When/Where: February 18-20
o Deadline: May 31 (May), June 30 (June), July 31 (August), August 31 (August), September 30 (September), October 31 (October)
o Application Fee: $15-$50
o Categories: Short
Lady Filmmakers Film Festival
NOW ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS to the 17th Annual Festival Celebration! A 5 star rated film festival and consistently ranked in the Top 100 on FilmFreeway. Lady Filmmakers Festival elevates the festival experience and is a trend-setting and forward-thinking film festival known by veteran Hollywood insiders and rising indie filmmakers alike for screening outstanding films from around the world. It's screenplay scene workshop, top notch speakers and upscale networking events makes it a must attend event each year. Lady Filmmakers is dedicated to creating a classy, fun and fulfilling festival experience dedicated to enhancing personal, professional and creative growth while promoting women, diversity, equity and inclusion. All festival screenings and parties take place IN PERSON in the world-famous Beverly Hills, California. We screen at the beautiful and historic 400 seat Fine Arts Theater with the highest quality sound and projection. We are a great platform for successful filmmakers and actors as well as a springboard for undiscovered talent like first-time directors with a truly wonderful artistic, cinematic vision and voice. The festival directors are filmmakers too & understand what it's like on both sides of a festival and try to provide as many wonderful experiences and opportunities to our Official Selection Attendees and Cinephiles alike. Lady Filmmakers celebrates diverse women in leadership roles and the men that hire, work with, and work for these talented female storytellers. The week long festival includes film screenings, script readings, musical performances, art exhibitions, industry panels, networking events and of course hosted parties with live entertainment!
o When/Where: September 25-30
o Deadline: July 23 (Final Deadline), August 14 (Oops I forgot Deadline)
o Application Fee: $67.50-$140
o Eligibility: FILM SUBMISSIONS- At least one woman must be credited in one of the following positions in each selected film: Writer, Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Production Designer, and/or Editor.
o Categories: Feature Film, Documentary, Short Film, Documentary Shorts
B!tchFest Film Festival & Screenplay Contest
B!tchFest is more than just a festival — it's a community! One that extends far beyond the event itself. We are invested in the success of your films and screenplays, offering a space for support, connection, and collaboration for all of our past and present submitters. In an industry where women hold just 26% of key film production roles and only 16% of major studio films feature LGBTQIA+ characters, we're on a mission to build a supportive network to unite and empower minority creator. B!tchFest is an INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S & LGBTQIA+ FILM FESTIVAL & SCREENPLAY CONTEST with a groundbreaking in-person event for both filmmakers and screenwriters in the heart of Los Angeles. At B!tchFest we're not just breaking glass ceilings; we're shattering them into a million pieces by unleashing the POWER of FEMALE and LGBTQIA+ VOICES in film and television! By providing a platform for RECOGNITION, AWARDS, PROMOTION, and DEVELOPING NEW CONNECTIONS we aim to break barriers and pave the way for a more inclusive entertainment industry.
o When/Where: February 28
o Deadline: May 20 (Early Deadline), July 1 (Regular Deadline), August 12 (Late Deadline), September 23 (Last Minute Deadline), November 4 (Extended Deadline), December 16 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $36-$70
o Eligibility: All writers and filmmakers must be at least 18 years old for their project to be eligible. All genres of films and screenplays are accepted.
There is no limit to the number of projects you may submit and multiple entries from the same submitter are accepted. You are allowed to submit the same project to multiple categories.
The entry fee applies to each category. Submitting to Best Feature Film, Best Short Film, Best Documentary Film, Best Female Directed Film, Best Student Film, Best LGBTQIA+ Film, Best TV Pilot, Best Web Series, Best Short Social Content Video, and Best Music Video qualifies your project for festival consideration. Additionally, it makes your Cast & Crew eligible for free consideration for Secondary Award Categories like Best Actress, Best Director, Best Cinematography, etc.
For consideration, film projects must feature at least one woman or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community in a key production role, such as Director, Writer, Producer, Cinematographer, Lead Actress/Actor, etc. Or the film should address women's or LGBTQIA+ issues and themes to be eligible.
For screenplay submissions, we prefer scripts written by women and/or members of the LGBTQIA+ community. While screenplays written by men and non-LGBTQIA+ individuals are welcome, they must either focus on female or LGBTQIA+ characters or address women's or LGBTQIA+ issues and themes to be eligible.
Writers and filmmakers who reside in countries other than the United States are welcome to enter the contest; however, all scripts must be submitted in English, and all foreign language films must contain English subtitles or be dubbed in English.
Judges, sponsors, administrators, employees and independent contractors who currently or have previously worked with or for the B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest are not eligible to enter the festival, nor are their spouses or immediate family members.
Entry fees are as listed on the FilmFreeway site checkout form. All entry fees are non-refundable. No coupon or discount is applicable on a previously submitted entry. Entries must be received on or before the listed deadline dates by 11:59PM Pacific Time, and submission fee payment must be paid in full at time of the submission.
Our in-person festival will feature screenings for the winners of each applicable category, trophy award presentations, red carpet photos, live-recorded Q&A panels with film and screenwriting winners, and an industry meet-and-greet event.
B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest reserves the right to make essential changes, postponements, reschedules, or cancellations to competition dates, deadlines, announcement dates, awards, categories, and/or the festival venue at our discretion without contestant consent. The organizers may modify or opt not to award any listed prizes. B!tchFest reserves the right to amend our rules, terms, release agreements, and conditions at any time.
The decisions of the judges are final and cannot be contested in any manner. There is no score on a scorecard that guarantees advancement to the festival as advancement will be based on the total competition scores as a whole.
By submitting to B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest you agree to our terms and conditions and to receive marketing newsletters, film festival discounts, and updates relative to this contest and any affiliated sources in the Whoever submits a project shall hold harmless B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest and its judges and associates from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, and expenses (including but not limited to attorney's fees, and costs of the court) which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, credits, publicity, trademark, screening, and loss of or damage to any materials submitted to our festival.
Notification of Winners and Official Selections will be sent by email and posted on our website BitchFestLA.com. It is the entrant(s) responsibility to provide us with current contact information for notification purposes and to keep the submission service updated. B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest has no responsibility for correspondence that is misdirected as a result of the entrant(s) failure to provide us with current and correct contact information or that is sent to spam or junk mail folders.
Should an entrant win an award at B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest, they will receive the award in-person at the Festival Awards Ceremony in Los Angeles. If not present, it is up to the recipient to arrange for a representative to receive the award on the submitters behalf. If a representative of the project is not at the festival in-person, no award will be presented. The festival is not required to ship awards to recipients who do not have a representative of the project present at the festival. However, shipping can be arranged on a case by case basis at the festival's discretion.
B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest and the employees and judges thereof, claims no ownership nor option on your work. All ownership and rights to screenplays and film projects submitted to this festival remains with the original rights holders.
All entrants understand and agree that there are a diverse amount of story contexts and ideas, and in no way is B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest responsible, not now or in the future, for borrowing or stealing from an idea, copy written concept, or storyline from any film or screenplay entry.
Entrants grant B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest permission to use their name, likeness, contact information provided, submitted work's title, logline, trailer, poster, and Grand Jury Results for publicity and promotional purposes. Contest participation signifies entrants' consent for B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest, its agents, and contest sponsors to use their information for promotional purposes in any media, globally, without payment or consideration. All use of entrants' information is in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
B!tchFest Film Festival & Screenplay Contest employs a panel of esteemed judges, consisting of industry professionals, to evaluate the submissions. Please understand that due to industry demands and schedules, the composition of our judging panel may evolve throughout the contest and evaluation process. B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest reserves the right to add, change, or remove any members of the judging panel at anytime, while still ensuring the contest's high-quality evaluation standards are consistently upheld.
By entering this contest, you authorize us to use any trusted third-party, online and cloud-based services and databases for hosting, organizing, tracking, managing, reviewing, and/or transmitting your submission file(s). B!tchFest Film Festival and Screenplay Contest cannot be held liable or financially responsible for any breaches in security with third-party, online and cloud-based services and databases used for managing this festival and its submissions, including but in no means limited to BitchfestLA.com and FilmFreeway services. By submitting to our festival, you are authorizing us to handle your film and/or screenplay using secure third party softwares.
Official Selections and Winners are responsible for their own personal travel and accommodation expenses to attend the festival. Award Winners will receive two complimentary tickets to the festival. All other cast and crew members must purchase event tickets in order to attend.
If a film or screenplay category winner does not respond to their status notification with requested materials and/or confirmation of participation by the requested response date, B!tchFest reserves the right to award a category finalist or runner-up in the winners place. We will still screen projects from submitters who are not able to attend the festival in person, but screeners must be delivered by the requested date in order to participate.
o Categories: Feature, Short, Music Video, TV Pilot Screenplay
Planet Female Global StoryFest
Planet Female Media embraces the female weavers of story from page to performance, screenplay to cinematic vision. This second year of the Planet Female Global StoryFest, Planet Female Media invites you, our dear sisters, to join our movement in a celebration of our Yin creativity, the divine tales and truths within us, and of our kindreds, all of which we access through living life, time and experience. She has something to say. We hear her. We have created a space for visual storytelling crafted by Women for Women and by those who identify as such. We are ethically mining the inexhaustible vault of feminine fable and fact to be shared, inspired by, and learned from. We believe strongly in fostering a platform for creativity, free speech and unity. Year One was a kaleidoscopic refection of our vision and we will continue to carefully review submissions and award the best in several categories. Having partnered with Westport MOCA - Museum of Contemporary Art, and Housatonic Community College, PFG StoryFest has expanded to two days, Friday, November 21, 2025 and Saturday November 22, 2025. Story Blocks will be showcased in spaces at each location culminating with an awards ceremony at Westport MoCA Saturday evening. With this expansion we are able to add 3 new categories - Short Feature Films (16-40 Minutes), Live Spoken Word, and Live Narrative Storytelling (Moth-style)
o When/Where: November 21-22
o Deadline: May 30 (Early Bird Deadline), June 30 (Regular Deadline), August 30 (Just Under the Wire Deadline)
o Application Fee: $20-$60
o Eligibility: To be considered by PFGSF for any of the Best of Festival Awards, at least one female or female identifying individual must be involved in creative leadership as screenwriter or director. If a female or female identifying individual is not in a creative leadership role, (screenwriter or director) the film's plot, subject, or main theme must be female centered. To be considered in a specific category other than best film or performance awards, there must be a female or female-identifying individual in the role. For Best Director, a female or female-identifying individual must be the film's Director.
o Categories: Short, Documentary Short, Animated Short
Image Out Rochester LGBTQ Film Festival
ImageOut is a premier LGBTQ+ film festival in Rochester, NY. We present LGBTQ+ arts and cultural experiences showcasing films, other creative works and artists to promote awareness, foster dialogue and build community. ImageOut is recognized and respected as a major arts and cultural organization in New York State, celebrating and bringing visibility to LGBTQ+ artists and themed work. This year, we are hosting our 33rd annual Fall Film Festival on October 9-19, 2025. We are also hosting our 5th annual First Cut Film Festival on April 24-29, 2025. ImageOut is an Iris Prize partner and is one of the few select LGBTQ+ film festivals from around the world who can outrightly nominate a film for the Iris Prize Shorts Film Competition in Cardiff, Wales. It is one of the richest shorts film competition in the world.
o When/Where: October 9-19
o Deadline: July 25 (Regular Deadline), August 15 (Extended Deadline) September 5 (Late Deadline)
o Application Fee: $7.50-$30
o Eligibility: All films submitted with LGBTQ+ content will be considered for the film lineup selection. Submission fees are non-refundable. Rochester is home to a large hard-of-hearing and deaf community. We encourage filmmakers to provide closed captioning for their films. If your film includes captions (as opposed to subtitles), please contact us for a fee waiver code. Films selected for the lineup are all eligible for the Jury and Audience awards. Submissions should ideally be film works from the last couple of years. Please contact us if your title is older than two years.
o Categories: Feature, Short
Women's Comedy Film Festival in Atlanta
The Women's Comedy Film Festival in Atlanta is a theatrical screening event in Atlanta for independent films featuring female filmmakers, actors, directors, writers and producers from all over the world. This is an amazing opportunity to showcase the talent of female directors, writers, actors, and everything in between right here in one of the world's fastest growing film communities. The Women's Comedy Film Festival also recognizes exceptional filmmaking and screenwriting with awards and nominations by our judging panel. Submit your film if you meet AT LEAST ONE of the following requirements:
o When/Where: March 15, 2025
o Deadline: April 30 (April Early Deadline), May 31 (Spring Early Deadline), July 31 (Summer Early Deadline), August 31 (Labor Day Deadline), September 30 (Fall Early Deadline), November 30 (Regular Deadline), December 31 (Late Deadline), January 31 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $22.50-$50
o Eligibility: Script writers, in addition to submitting your script to the festival we also provide optional script coverage. Script coverage with our festival includes the price of your submission fee. Your work will be analyzed by a Cinema Life filmmaker who's produced award-winning films, has extensive writing experience, and also understands the indie way of filmmaking.
o Categories: Feature, Animated, Documentary, Comedy Short
Peach Theatre and Film Festival
The PEACH Theatre and Film Intl. Festival is a unique and rare experience that merge two beautiful genres of arts and entertainment. Both theatre and film, showcasing a series of short films and selected plays, in one of the world's most famous cities, internationally known for being the home of entertainment. Los Angeles, California. Our mission is to select films and plays based on content, quality, and merit. It is also our volition to honor the creatives selected, with integrity and respect for their hard work, discipline and sacrifice to get their productions completed and ready for display. As playwrights, filmmakers and entertainment professionals ourselves, we understand what it takes, and for that reason, we salute you! Continue history with us!
o When/Where: November 12
o Deadline: April 5 (Early Bird Deadline), June 10 (Regular Deadline), September 25 (Late Deadline)
o Application Fee: $35-$55
o Eligibility: Trailers must be included in your FilmFreeway submission, to be considered for official selection.
We do not accept student films or "Works in progress."
Films must have been released, no earlier than January '2020
Those who submit films, must own the rights to the film, own the rights or have proper clearance for the original or selected music featured in the film, and footage.
All Non English films submitted, must include English captions.
This festival reserves the right to make amendments/revisions to the event itinerary, or postpone due to possible/forthcoming COVID-19 restrictions.
By submitting: You consent for our festival to use still shots and/or footage from your play or film, for promotional purposes.
We do not pay screening fees to films selected to screen in our festival.
o Categories: Short Film
The Women's Independent Film Festival
The Women's Independent Film Festival is a chance to share and celebrate greatness in the world of female filmmaking. Our incredible community ranges from directors, to producers, to screenwriters, to actors, to content creators! Whatever the medium: We build this festival to shed light, deliver opportunity and celebrate the achievements of women in the world of filmmaking, storytelling and beyond! We're going into our 3rd year celebrating the Women's Independent Film Festival and we're so excited for this year's work, partnerships, competitions and more. Whether a finalist or not, all officially selected filmmakers will be invited to join us at the Women's Independent Film Festival for screenings, networking, resources, collaboration, learning, partnerships and for our official premieres and awards ceremony blocks. The Women's Independent Film Festival was created to encourage female content creators with unique backgrounds to share their stories/ The festival will promote the work of women filmmakers and recognize them globally for their achievements in film. Women have to be involved in the creation of ALL submitted films! That can be either as directors, producers, writers, performers, etc. Just as long as they were involved in the creation of the submitted work.
o When/Where: October 9-12
o Deadline: March 31 (March Deadline), April 30 (April Deadline), May 31 (May Deadline), June 30 (June Deadline), July 31 (Regular Deadline), September 1 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $10-$60
o Eligibility: All entries should be sent via FilmFreeway with a secure online screener. Each accepted film must be submitted in the .mp4 or .mov format, preferably. By submitting to the festival you confirm that you own the rights of the film, including the rights to the music in the film. By submitting to the festival you give consent to the festival programming staff to screen your work in front of the private audience of the Women's Independent Film Festival community. There is no minimum running time. Films must have been completed on or after Jan 1st, 2019. All genres are welcome Filmmakers may submit multiple entries as long as each film is submitted with its own Entry Form, online screener and paid Entry Fee.
o Categories: Shorts, Feature Film, Documentary, Animated
Los Angeles Asian Film Festival
Los Angeles Asian Film Awards, originally called Las Vegas Asian Film Awards (LVAFA), was an independent festival that resides beneath the umbrella of AOF MegaFest, which is in its 19th year, is the largest film event of its kind in the world. Held in Las Vegas at the Premiere Theaters and Locations, the show regularly exceeds 20,000 guests and attendees. After a first successful annual event in Las Vegas with the legendary AOF MegaFest in summer 2021, it moved to Los Angeles, the center of the world film industry. Opportunities at Los Angeles Asian Film Awards are literally like no other in the world; Los Angeles Asian Film Awards can put more resources together and offer a wide variety of industry guests, seminar speakers, and panelists. We invite you to join festival director, Award-Winning Filmmaker and Writer Lureen Wu and honorable judge, director Roger Christiansen ("Friends," "Hannah Montana," "Tango Down") as they bring you a selection of pure Asian Cinema for Screenings and Awards. The situation surrounding COVID-19 has caused much pain in the film and entertainment industries, and no group has been affected more than Asian Filmmakers, Writers, and Creators. The Los Angeles Asian Film Awards is a hub and platform for Asian filmmakers to have their works seen and voices heard. Festival Director Lureen Wu was born and raised in Shanghai, China. She worked as a TV director in Shanghai for years, including TV documentaries, TV commercials, celebrity talk shows, and music videos. Early in her career in Shanghai, Lureen worked with the Emmy Award-winning television interviewer, Nancy Merrill, in the English talk show "Nancy Merrill: Minds of Millionaires" on the international channel of Shanghai TV Station(SMG) and CCTV NEWS. After moving to the United States, Lureen continued pursuing her career in film. She worked with filmmakers who are part of some best-known movies and TV shows such as Friends, Les Misérables（2012), The Big Bang Theory, Saw, Sex and The City, Iron Man 2, Grey's Anatomy, The Princess Diaries, Stranger Things, Game of Thrones......Our Festival is open to ALL Asian filmmakers, talents, and writers of all genres and lengths.
o When/Where: December 13
o Deadline: March 31 (Early Bird Deadline), May 31 (Regular Early Deadline), June 30 (Regular Deadline), July 31 (Regular Late Deadline), August 31 (Late Deadline), September 30 (Extended Deadline) November 15 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $40-$55
o Eligibility: We are Accepting submissions for feature Narrative and Documentary, short Narrative and Documentary, Music Videos, TV Commercials, short/feature scripts. All genres are welcome. The festival programming staff will place your film in the appropriate category. To Enter for Competition your film or Project must have a writer, producer, talent or director of Asian descent in order to be eligible for awards.
o Categories: Feature, Short, Documentary, Documentary Short, Animation
WRPN Women's International Film Festival
Welcome to the WRPN Women's International Film Festival, where distribution and feedback opportunities abound for films made by women or films that carry subjects relating to concerns about women's issues. WWIFF is a sister festival to the Depth of Field International Film Festival, a FilmFreeway "Top 100 Reviewed" festival alumni. Distribution: over the years, our sister festivals have sent hundreds of films and screenplays to 3 established Distribution companies who have already signed contracts with dozens of our filmmakers. WWIFF now operates with that same advantage! These distributors do not take unsolicited submissions; your top award-winning with WWIFF gets you into our private distributor review group. This is a Free Service provided exclusively to our top winners. Don't forget Feedback: The one element most festivals ignore.
o When/Where: May 9, 2026
o Deadline: January 31 (Regular Deadline), March 31 (Late Deadline), May 31 (Extended Deadline), August 31 (Last Chance Deadline)
o Application Fee: $36-$80
o Eligibility: While WWIFF is a female-focused film festival, we will also accept films produced and/or directed by men if one or more self-identifying top production members are female (including but not limited to cinematographers, producers, writers, editors, or films featuring a strong female presence on screen). We will not exclude films directed by men if the topic is significant to women and women's issues. WWIFF is granted the right to use an excerpt from any film submitted and accepted for competition at the festival for promotional purposes. A clip of winning entries may also be streamed on the WWIFF.COM website and WRPN.TV.
o Categories: Feature, Short, Documentary, Screenplay
The Women's Independent Film & Television Festival
The Women's Independent Film & Television Festival is a chance to share and celebrate greatness in the world of female filmmaking. Our incredible community ranges from directors, to producers, to screenwriters, to actors, to content creators! Whatever the medium: We build this festival to shed light, deliver opportunity and celebrate the achievements of women in the world of filmmaking, storytelling and beyond! We're going into our 3rd year celebrating The Women's Independent Film & Television Festival and we're so excited for this year's work, partnerships, competitions and more. Whether a finalist or not, all officially selected filmmakers will be invited to join us at the Women's Independent Film Awards for screenings, networking, resources, collaboration, learning, partnerships and for our official premieres and awards ceremony blocks. The Women's Independent Film & Television Festival was created to encourage female content creators with unique backgrounds to share their stories/ The festival will promote the work of women filmmakers and recognize them globally for their achievements in film. Women have to be involved in the creation of ALL submitted films! That can be either as directors, producers, writers, performers, etc. Just as long as they were involved in the creation of the submitted work.
o When/Where: October 9-12
o Deadline: November 30 (November Deadline), January 31 (January Deadline), March 1 (February Deadline), March 31 (March Deadline), April 30 (April Deadline), May 31 (May Deadline), June 30 (Regular Deadline), July 31 (Regular Deadline), September 1 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $10-52
o Eligibility: All entries should be sent via FilmFreeway with a secure online screener.
Each accepted film must be submitted in the .mp4 or .mov format, preferably.
By submitting to the festival you confirm that you own the rights of the film, including the rights to the music in the film.
By submitting to the festival you give consent to the festival programming staff to screen your work in front of the private audience of the Women's Independent Film Festival community.
There is no minimum running time.
Submission fees are non-refundable
Films must have been completed on or after Jan 1st, 2019.
All genres are welcome
Filmmakers may submit multiple entries as long as each film is submitted with its own Entry Form, online screener and paid Entry Fee.
o Categories: Short Film, Feature Film, Documentary, Experimental
The Women's Independent Film Festival
The Women's Independent Film Festival is a chance to share and celebrate greatness in the world of female filmmaking. Our incredible community ranges from directors, to producers, to screenwriters, to actors, to content creators! Whatever the medium: We build this festival to shed light, deliver opportunity and celebrate the achievements of women in the world of filmmaking, storytelling and beyond! We're going into our 3rd year celebrating the Women's Independent Film Festival and we're so excited for this year's work, partnerships, competitions and more. Whether a finalist or not, all officially selected filmmakers will be invited to join us at the Women's Independent Film Festival for screenings, networking, resources, collaboration, learning, partnerships and for our official premieres and awards ceremony blocks. The Women's Independent Film Festival was created to encourage female content creators with unique backgrounds to share their stories/ The festival will promote the work of women filmmakers and recognize them globally for their achievements in film. Women have to be involved in the creation of ALL submitted films! That can be either as directors, producers, writers, performers, etc. Just as long as they were involved in the creation of the submitted work.
o When/Where: October 9-12 2025
o Deadline: October 30 (October Deadline), November 30 (November Deadline), January 31 (January Deadline), March 1 (February Deadline), March 31 (March Deadline), April 30 (April Deadline), May 31 (May Deadline), June 30 (June Deadline), July 31 (Regular Deadline), September 1 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $10-$60
o Eligibility: All entries should be sent via FilmFreeway with a secure online screener. Each accepted film must be submitted in the .mp4 or .mov format, preferably. By submitting to the festival you confirm that you own the rights of the film, including the rights to the music in the film. By submitting to the festival you give consent to the festival programming staff to screen your work in front of the private audience of the Women's Independent Film Festival community. There is no minimum running time. Films must have been completed on or after Jan 1st, 2019. All genres are welcome Filmmakers may submit multiple entries as long as each film is submitted with its own Entry Form, online screener and paid Entry Fee.
o Categories: Shorts, Feature Film, Documentary, Animated
ONSCREEN
Loco
Casting "Loco" a dark comedy about men and women who turn into animals when their blood is up, based on the classic Merimee novella (considered the originator of the femme fatale in Western lit).
o Roles: Robin - Lead: 30-45
Open to any ethnicity woman in her 30s/Early 40s (the script describes her as 37). A lawyer who works for the rich and powerful, still too young to have any real power herself, though right at the doorstep of power. Guilt ridden, hates her job, both because it's boring, too many hours, she has no life, and job always puts her on the wrong side of issues, against those she's sympathetic with. Very smart/sensitive, smart enough to be aware of or at least emotionally burdened by feeling of horror/injustice at the world, but too sensitive/shy/afraid to do anything about it in beginning. Catholic girl who's lost her faith. Secretly very passionate, mentally and physically, mind and body constantly at war with each other. A dancer/athlete/science nerd would work well in this. Need an actress who can cover both ends of her arc and every point in between, from repressed/miserable/depressed/lost nerd/lady lawyer to Queen of the Jungle.
o Rate: $421 / day Total Pay: $8,420 (est. 20 days of work) Meals for shooting days. Actress with interest in and ambition to produce is a big plus and additional pay available through Rhapsody Digital Entertainment for this.
OFFSCREEN
LA Independent Women in Film Awards
LA Independent Women Film Awards focuses on international and U.S. film and script projects of all genres. Every season, the IMDb qualifying fest recognizes projects with a female producer, director, lead actress, writer, cinematographer, editor, composer, etc. All topics related to women's thoughts, women's fate, life conditions, women's views and so on are welcome to participate. All the winners will be promoted through various online magazines in California and can request to receive certificates and laurels. All the winners can request for screening through our festival. Our mission is designed to help create a platform for our filmmakers to be seen, but more importantly, get them the industry exposure to help sustain their craft for many years to come.The members of our jury will be award winning artists working in media from all over the world. All the award winners can request to be a jury member of a new edition of the festival in order to vote for one of the categories. LA Independent Women Film Awards is an outstanding event for promoting female artists working in media from all over the world.
o When/Where: August 31
o Deadline: August 14 (Final Deadline)
o Application Fee: $30-$60
New York International Screenplay Awards
New York International Screenplay Awards is an international screenplay competition for screenwriters who aspire to connect with the US industry workers and explore the US markets. NYISA winners will be connected to the US film industry by the valued Sponsors; InkTip, Script Mailer, R2W2 talent & project accelerator/ consulting, Script Reader Pro, Screenwriting Software Final Draft!, And much more!
o When/Where: May 7
o Deadline: July 7 (Early Bird Deadline), November 24 (Regular Deadline), February 9 (Late Deadline), April 13 (Extended Deadline)
o Application Fee: $18-$60
o Eligibility: All scripts must be submitted in English, formatted in 12-point courier font.
Entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Entry in the competition is void where prohibited by law.
Screenplays written by up to four people may be entered in the contest. Only one entry fee is required for such entries. All writers' names should be listed on the online entry. All writers must authorize the submission of the entry. If a screenplay is written by multiple authors, prizes will be divided at the writers' discretion.
All entries must be uploaded in PDF format. (www.freepdfconcert.com)
Entrants to the NYISA retain all rights to their screenplays.
Entries must be received by the applicable Entry Deadline.
Once a script has been entered into the competition, we will not accept substitutions or revised drafts. If you wish to submit a revised draft of your script, you must enter it as a new submission.
NYISA will not share your screenplay with anyone except the official judges of the competition.
By entering the NYISA, you represent that your entry is your original work, and does not infringe on the copyright or other rights of other people.
Entry fees are non-refundable.
We do not accept hardcopy submissions by mail.
Submissions must be the original work of the applicant. Entries may be adapted from the applicant's own work.
The decisions of the judges are final.
NYISA reserves the right to make any necessary changes, postponements, or cancellations to event scheduling at our discretion.
Notification of winners and official finalists will be sent by email and posted on our website. It is the responsibility of the winners to redeem any prizes allotted to them by the NYISA or our sponsors. Applicants will be responsible for providing current contact information and mailing addresses for prize redemption purposes.
Feature screenplays must be between 41 and 150 pages in length.
Short screenplays must be between 1 and 40 pages in length. Please email us if you have a longer screenplay that you would like to submit.There is no limit to the number of screenplays you may submit.
Under absolutely no circumstances will substitutions of either corrected pages or new drafts of the entry screenplay(s) be made. Screenplays will not be returned.
Screenplay titles cannot be changed upon resubmission under any circumstances.
o Categories: Feature, Short, TV Pilot
New York Screenwriting Awards
New York Screenwriting Awards, is an international screenplay competition based in New York. Screenwriters who would need recognition to be able to contact agents and producers can submit their screenplays. New York Screenwriting Awards has four editions per year. Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter editions. Winners will be announced on the NewY work Screenwriting Awards website, via emails, and FilmFreeway. Winners of each category will receive a prestigious digital certificate and the official laurel. New York Screenwriting Awards has been run by MAE Media House, one of the most prestigious creative writing consultancies in New York, since 2015.
o When/Where: September 20
o Deadline: July 5 (Early Bird Deadline), August 15 (Regular Deadline), September 15 (Extended Deadline)
o Application Fee: $18-$60
o Eligibility: Trailers must be included in your FilmFreeway submission, to be considered for official selection.
We do not accept student films or "Works in progress."
Films must have been released, no earlier than January '2020
Those who submit films, must own the rights to the film, own the rights or have proper clearance for the original or selected music featured in the film, and footage.
All Non English films submitted, must include English captions.
This festival reserves the right to make amendments/revisions to the event itinerary, or postpone due to possible/forthcoming COVID-19 restrictions.
By submitting: You consent for our festival to use still shots and/or footage from your play or film, for promotional purposes.
We do not pay screening fees to films selected to screen in our festival.
o Categories: Short Film
Swordfish Productions Pictures
Swordfish Productions Pictures is interviewing for the following Crew positions for an $80,000 Live-Action Short in New York.
o Roles: DP/Lighting, Picture Editor/Color, Sound Recorder/Mixer/Editor, Script Sup/Production Designer, 1stAD, Wardrobe/Hair/Makeup, Crafty, 2 PAs.
o Submission Guidelines: Please email 1-2 page Current Resume with 2 Biz Refs all contact info to SPECIALFILM@gmail.com.
Hollywood Storytellers Script Competition
The Hollywood Storytellers Script Competition (formerly The LA International Script Competition) is an annual event where outstanding Feature, Short, and TV Pilot Scripts are evaluated and placed in our all-inclusive genre contest. One writer from each genre and medium will be awarded the genre winner of their respective category. One feature screenplay writer, one short screenplay writer, and one TV pilot script writer will advance and receive the overall "grand prize winner" title. Call for entries open in January and close in November with announcements and subsequent information to follow. If you have a produced script, we'd be delighted to invite you to submit to our sister competition: The Hollywood Storytellers Film Festival
o When/Where: March 21-22
o Application Fee: $28-80
o Deadline: May 31 (Regular Deadline), July 31 (Extended Deadline), September 30 (Last Call Deadline), November 2 (Final Deadline)
o Categories: Feature Script, Short Script
Torch Literary Arts
Torch Literary Arts welcomes submissions of original creative work by Black women writers. We are interested in work that challenges and disrupts preconceived notions of what contemporary writing by Black women should be. Your stories and poems are valuable and necessary. Write freely and submit what you are excited to share with the world. Submissions are accepted for Friday Features only. We accept submissions on a rolling basis. Simultaneous submissions to other journals are welcome as long as they are identified as such and we are notified immediately upon acceptance elsewhere.
o Deadline: Rolling Basis
o Application Fee: No Fee
o Eligibility: Include a one (1) page cover letter noting the title(s) of the work(s) submitted.
Upload your text submission as a Word (DOC, DOCX) or portable document format/PDF (PDF).
Typed, double-spaced (poetry may be single-spaced) pages.
Numbered pages.
Margins should be set at no less than 1" and no greater than 1.5".
Poetry: submit up to five (5) poems totaling no more than eight (8) pages.
Fiction, Hybrid genre: 12-point font. No more than ten (10) pages or 2500 words (whichever is achieved first). Excerpts of longer works are welcome if self-contained.
Drama/Screenwriting: submit one act or a collection of short scenes no longer than ten (10) pages. Excerpts of longer works are welcome if self-contained. Indicate if a performance video or dramatic audio reading will be available with the text submission if selected.
Restrictions: We do not reprint previously published work for TORCH Friday Features.
o Categories: Scripts
A24
Based in NY and LA, A24 is the Academy Award-winning film and TV studio behind feature films such as Minari, Midsommar, Moonlight, Ex Machina, Uncut Gems, and this summer's Zola and The Green Knight. A24 TV productions include the Emmy-winning series Euphoria for HBO starring Zendaya, Hulu series Ramy from Golden Globe-winner Ramy Youssef, the eponymous variety series from viral comedy sensation Ziwe for Showtime, the forthcoming Joseph Gordon-Levitt Apple series Mr. Corman, and the Netflix anthology series Beef starring Oscar nominee Steven Yeun and Ali Wong.
o Seeking: Various Roles
o Location: Los Angeles, CA & New York, NY
o Website: https://a24films.com/jobs
The Kate Spade New York Foundation
o To honor Kate Spade's legacy of empowering and inspiring women and girls, the National Council for Behavioral Health is excited to provide complimentary Mental Health First Aid training to communities throughout the five boroughs of New York City and New Jersey and in partnership with organizations that specifically support these populations.
What is Mental Health First Aid?
Just as CPR helps you assist an individual having a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid helps you assist someone experiencing a mental health or substance use-related crisis. In the Mental Health First Aid course, you learn risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies for how to help someone in both crisis and non-crisis situations, and where to turn for help.
The National Council for Behavioral Health shares Kate Spade New York Foundation's belief in "the power of women to transform their communities" through empowerment. In support of this mission, we are offering through a competitive application process, select Mental Health First Aid and Youth Mental Health First Aid training, fully funded!
o Location: New York, NY
o Website
FUNDING
Roy W. Dean Grants
Now entering its fourth decade, the Roy W. Dean Film Grants fund independent feature films, documentaries, web series, and short films with budgets of $500,000 or less that are unique and make a contribution to society that, without its help, might otherwise never get made.
o Deadline: April 29 (Short Film Grant), June 30th (Roy W Grant - Summer), October 31 (Roy W Grant - Fall), November 30 (Carole Dorothy Joyce Grant)
o Application Fee: None
o Eligibility:we want a one page synopsis (or outline) of the film and the first 10 pages of your script. Please be sure also include the following:
Style, format and approach to the material, including any distinct visual or technical elements.
What are your plans for distribution?
Are you the producer, director, what?
How is this project unique and how does this project benefit society?
What is your relationship to the material?
List name and position of proposed key production personnel (producer, director, cinematographer, editor, etc.) List their relevant experience or credits.
o Contact: artistdevelopment@filmindependent.org
Artslink International Fellowship
The ArtsLink International Fellowship program prioritizes applicants whose social practices seek to actively engage communities on issues related to the current climate emergency and human rights. We will actively encourage artists and arts leaders whose work is making a vital contribution to furthering people's awareness, understanding, and active participation in environmental and/or social justice issues. Additionally, we will prioritize artists recently displaced from or still working in Afghanistan and Ukraine.
o Deadline: Letter of Inquiry deadline will be announced in September 2025 Fellowships take place in 2026: online research in May and in person residencies in the US in October-November
o Application Fee: None
o Eligibility: CEC ArtsLink welcomes applications from contemporary artists, curators, and arts leaders whose work is shaped by community engagement and social practice strategies, and informed by our most urgent local and global issues. We welcome applications from artists of any generation and invite those with both traditional and non-traditional artistic backgrounds. Applicants must be citizens of one of our network countries. If you are living outside the region, please indicate where you are currently based. Please note that an ability to communicate both verbally and in written English will be essential to success in the program. Undergraduate students and research scholars are not eligible. Arts leaders/curators must be affiliated with an arts organization in the non-commercial sector or work as individual independent arts professionals. Artists seeking placement in commercial firms are ineligible. ArtsLink International Fellows from prior years are not eligible to reapply.
Sloan Distribution Grant
The Sloan Distribution Grant is a $50,000 grant awarded by Film Independent to a film that is entering its distribution phase. Eligible films must depict themes, stories and ase.
o Contact: artistdevelopment@filmindependent.org
Panavision New Filmmaker Program
Panavision believes in helping students and beginning filmmakers achieve their dreams. More than 25 years ago, Panavision launched the New Filmmaker Program, an ongoing grant program that loans camera packages to film schools, training programs, and independent filmmakers – at little or no charge. Panavision's commitment to the industry's future provides student and beginning filmmakers the opportunity to work with professional grade equipment early in their careers.
o Deadline: Rolling
o Application Fee: Free
o Eligibility: Submit your proposals at least two months before you plan to shoot. Due to the high demand for Panavision cameras and equipment, it is essential that you plan ahead and contact us early.
Proposal materials will not be returned.
The New Filmmaker Program does not discriminate as to the nature of the project that can receive equipment grants. Any form, from experimental to documentary to musical to traditional narrative, is welcome.
Camera grants are available only for productions in the United States. Customs laws make transportation of cameras out of the US prohibitive. No exceptions.
The New Filmmaker Program will not allow cameras to be used on projects that perpetuate racial or sexual stereotypes and prejudices. Pornography is absolutely unacceptable.
Grant recipients must obtain insurance from an outside insurance agent. Students can generally have the school issue the necessary policies. Plan ahead! This can take several weeks to implement. The process varies from school to school, so check with your film department. Productcharacters grounded in real science, technology or economics.
o Contact: nfp@panavision.com
Catapult Film Fund
Catapult Film Fund provides development funding to documentary filmmakers who have a compelling story to tell, have secured access to their story, and are ready to shoot and edit a piece for production fundraising purposes. Our mission is to enable filmmakers to develop their films to the next level at a moment where funding is hard to find.
o Deadline: Rolling
o Application Fee: Free
o Eligibility: Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Catapult does not fund student films.
Documentaries must be 28 minutes or longer in length. We do not fund series.
Animation is okay. Documentary/narrative hybrids will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Development funds must specifically be used for the process of completing a fundraising piece, which may include writing, shooting and editing once story and characters are in place.
Applicants must own the copyright of their production, and have artistic, budgetary and editorial control over their project.
Applicants should preferably have previous film or television production experience in a principal role (director, co-director, producer, co-producer) as demonstrated by submitting a previously completed work sample.
Applicants who have not yet produced or directed their own feature length documentary should demonstrate that they will be working with an experienced filmmaker in a principal role.
Catapult only makes grants to 501(c)(3) organizations. In most cases, this will mean getting a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor for the project. A film production company or individual, including applicants from outside the US, may submit an application without a fiscal sponsor in place. Please see the FAQ section for more details.
o Contact: info@catapultfilmfund.org
RESIDENCIES
18th Street Arts Center
18th Street Arts Center values art making as an essential component of a vibrant, just, and healthy society. Its mission is "to provoke public dialogue through contemporary art making." Founded in 1988, 18th Street Arts Center has fostered and supported the work of many of Los Angeles' most engaging artists, and has built bridges to artist communities around the globe.
o Deadline: Ongoing
o Application Fee: Yes
o When: Ongoing
o Eligibility: The Visiting Artist Residency Program accepts applications from working, professional artists who demonstrate a deep commitment to their practices. The program is open to artists of all generations, nationalities, and disciplines. Applicants are required to cover studio rental costs themselves. Although we primarily support visual artists, 18th Street Arts Center will consider applications from performing artists, writers, and filmmakers as well.
o Address: 1639 18th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90404
o Contact: 310-453-3711
OTHER RESOURCES
NOTE: For more resources, visit our pages of Resources - Funding, Submissions, and more.
NYFA SOURCE - The New York Foundation for the Arts maintains the most comprehensive national directory of awards, services and publications for artists in the NYFA Source section of their website.
backHer- Women specific grants for all fields
https://www.backher.com/toolbox/women-specific-grants
FILMFREEWAY - Film/Video artists can check FilmFreeway at:
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