EMERGING FILMMAKERS FESTIVAL

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Submissions must be directed, written, or produced by actors transitioning into filmmaking.

All films must be 15 minutes or less in length, including credits.

Films must be submitted digitally through Film Freeway in HD format (1080p preferred).

This festival is open to both national and international filmmakers. Non-English films must include English subtitles.

All films must be 12 minutes or less, including credits.

Each film must feature at least two AAFTA class members in starring roles.

Submissions for AAFTA Conservatory Graduates are free with a special waiver code and are due by February 14th.

Early Bird Deadline: October 21st - December 1st | Entry Fee: $25

Regular Deadline: December 2nd - January 10th | Entry Fee: $35

Late Deadline: January 11th - January 20th | Entry Fee: $50

Final Submission for AAFTA Conservatory Graduates: February 14th | Free Entry using a special waiver code.

By submitting a film, the filmmaker grants AAFTA Emerging Filmmaker’s Festival the right to screen their film during the festival on February 20th.

Filmmakers retain all other rights to their film.

Selected filmmakers must provide a downloadable HD version for screening purposes.

Submissions will be reviewed by a jury of AAFTA alumni and a Finalists Jury Panel of Industry Professionals.

Decisions of the jury are final.

Feedback from the judging process is not guaranteed.

Selected films will be notified via email by mid-January.

AAFTA Emerging Filmmaker’s Festival is not responsible for incorrect or non-functioning email addresses.

All submission fees are non-refundable, and submission does not guarantee selection.

Multiple entries from the same filmmaker are accepted, but each entry must be submitted separately with its own fee.

By submitting, filmmakers agree that selected clips or trailers may be used for festival marketing and promotional purposes, including social media and press releases.

The festival may also use still images or promotional graphics provided by the filmmakers.

The festival reserves the right to disqualify films containing extreme violence, hate speech, or discriminatory content.

Films must be original works. If your film is an adaptation or uses licensed material, proof of rights must be provided upon request.

By submitting a film to the AAFTA Emerging Filmmaker’s Festival, the filmmaker acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agree to all terms and rules outlined here.

Any violation of the rules and terms may result in disqualification and removal from the festival lineup.