SUBMISSIONS FOR 2025 815HORTS ARE OPEN TO FILMMAKERS WORLDWIDE! This year's submission categories include: Animated, Documentary and/or Live Action short films. Submissions should not exceed 40 minutes runtime.
As part of the fourth year of 815HORTS, we are proud to partner with the Illinois Film Office on the return of the Shortcuts Short Film Contest, which is a statewide short film contest curated for Illinois students/residents ages 22 and under. The winner of Shortcuts will receive $250 and the winning short film will be automatically screened at 815HORTS. See Rules and Terms below for more contest information.
2025 815HORTS SCHEDULE
Friday-Saturday, Nov. 14-15, 2025
Details coming soon!
ABOUT 815HORTS
Built to amplify the Rockford, Illinois, region’s creative and filmmaking community, 815HORTS (pronounced 815 shorts) celebrates the fine art of short film cinematography by showcasing local, national and international short films amidst a festival format. As the festival heads into its fourth year, the program continues to expand through educational content, networking opportunities and film blocks.
2025 815HORTS PARTNERS
Premier: Illinois Film Office
OTHERS TBA!
Partnership Opportunities: Contact Nick@PlusSevenCompany.com.
2025 AWARDS CATEGORIES
- Best 5HORT (Best in Show)
- Best Animated Short
- Best Documentary Short
- Best Live Action Short
- Best Shortcuts Student Contest Winner