Prizes and qualifications

Competition Categories


1. Narrative Features

Celebrating compelling storytelling in feature-length films.


2. Short Films

Highlighting outstanding creativity in films under 30 minutes


3. UK Spotlight

Focused on films made by UK-based filmmakers


4. Documentary Excellence

Recognizing impactful and thought-provoking documentaries.


5. Animated Works

Honoring exceptional creativity in animation, regardless of style or technique


6. Experimental Cinema

Highlighting innovative and boundary-pushing films


Special Awards


1. Emerging Filmmaker Award

Recognizing promising talent making a debut in short or feature-length formats


2. Cultural Impact Award

Awarded to a film that deeply resonates with social, cultural, or political issues


3. Leeds Spirit Award

Celebrating a film that best embodies the ethos of creativity, resilience, and inclusivity


Rules

GENERAL RULES

1. Eligibility

• Film Types: Open to short films (under 30 minutes) and feature-length films (over 60 minutes).
• Completion Date: Films must be completed after January 1, 2022.
• Language: Non-English films must include English subtitles.
• Genres: All genres and styles, including narrative, documentary, animation, and experimental films, are accepted.


2. Submission

• Submissions must be made through the festival's official platform or designated submission portals.
• All entries must be received by the final deadline as listed on the festival website.
• A non-refundable submission fee is required for each entry.


3. Rights and Permissions

• The filmmaker must hold all necessary rights to the content, including music, visuals, and any other elements used in the film.
• Submission implies permission for the festival to screen the film online during the event dates.


4. Screening

• Films will be streamed on a secure, password-protected platform to registered viewers only.
• Geoblocking can be applied to protect regional distribution rights upon request.


5. General Terms

• The festival reserves the right to disqualify films that violate its regulations.
• All jury decisions are final. Festival reserve the right to change its dates
• By submitting, filmmakers agree to the terms and conditions outlined by the festival.