American Stories Film Festival™

🍿 American Stories Screening Series™
General Rules & Terms
The following rules and terms apply to all film submissions, screenings, and participation in the American Stories Screening Series™. By submitting a film, you agree to comply with the conditions outlined below.

1. Eligibility & Submission Guidelines
A Bold Celebration of Original Storytelling
American Stories Screening Series™ welcomes submissions from filmmakers of all backgrounds and creative perspectives. While all are welcome to submit, we prioritize stories from historically underserved and underrepresented American communities, with intentional emphasis on voices and lived experiences often overlooked by mainstream platforms. During key cultural observances such as Black History Month, Juneteenth, and October programming, we may especially spotlight narratives rooted in the Black American experience as a vital part of the broader American story.
Original Works Only
All submitted films must be original works. Filmmakers must own or have secured all necessary rights, licenses, and permissions for submitted content. Films that infringe on copyrights, trademarks, or intellectual property rights will not be accepted.
Languages & Subtitles
Films must be presented in English or include English subtitles if another language is used.
Genres & Themes
All genres are welcome. We especially value films that reflect:
Cultural heritage and resilience
Truth-telling and innovation
Intergenerational voices and unique American experiences
Humor, hope, and bold creativity
Film Length
Short Films: 40 minutes or less
Feature Films: Over 45 minutes
Accepted Formats
Preferred digital formats include .mp4, .mov, or .avi. Alternate formats may be requested for screening purposes.
Distribution Status
Previously screened films may be eligible. However, films with broad theatrical release or major commercial streaming distribution may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

2. Submission Process
Submission Platform
Films must be submitted through the official designated submission portal or approved screening intake process.
Entry Fees
Submission fees, when applicable, are non-refundable unless formally waived in writing by the Screening Series Director.
Deadlines
Submissions received after primary deadlines may be considered during extended deadlines if space allows. Early submission is strongly encouraged.

3. Selection & Screening
Official Screening Selection
Selected films will be recognized as Official Screening Selections and may be presented in-person, virtually, or through hybrid programming.
Screening Model
American Stories Screening Series™ may host screenings in Atlanta and/or online through secure digital access, depending on programming structure.
Optional Virtual Screening
With filmmaker approval, selected films may be included in virtual programming opportunities beyond premiere dates.
Content Standards
We do not accept content that is hateful, defamatory, discriminatory, illegal, or harmful toward marginalized communities. American Stories Screening Series™ reserves the right to disqualify any submission that violates these standards.
Director’s Discretion
The Screening Series Director reserves the right to determine final programming decisions, revoke selections, or adjust scheduling as needed. All decisions are final.

4. Awards, Honors & Recognition
Featured Film Honors
Select films may receive recognition for excellence in storytelling, creativity, and cultural impact.
Category Recognition
Non-monetary honors may be presented in categories such as:
Best Narrative Feature
Best Narrative Short
Best Documentary
Best Documentary Short
Best Music Video
Best Production Design
Best Editing
Best Performance
Official Selection Recognition
All officially selected films receive the American Stories Screening Series™ laurel for approved promotional use.

5. Filmmaker Participation
Interviews, Panels & Educational Opportunities
Selected filmmakers may be invited to participate in interviews, Q&As, panels, or educational discussions based on availability and relevance.
Promotion
By submitting, filmmakers grant American Stories Screening Series™ permission to use approved stills, trailers, bios, and promotional materials for marketing and publicity purposes.

6. Rights & Distribution
Copyright & Ownership
Filmmakers retain ownership of their work and must have legal authority to submit all included materials.
Screening Rights
Submission grants American Stories Screening Series™ non-exclusive rights to screen the film as part of official programming.
No Claims of Distribution
American Stories Screening Series™ does not claim ownership, sales representation, or commercial distribution rights beyond agreed promotional and screening use.

7. Liability
Legal Responsibility
All legal, licensing, and clearance responsibilities remain solely with the filmmaker.
Loss or Damage
American Stories Screening Series™ is not responsible for lost, corrupted, or damaged submission materials.

8. Branding & Media Use
Logo & Laurel Usage
Only officially selected films may use American Stories Screening Series™ branding, laurels, or logos, and all use must align with official brand guidelines.
Social Media Promotion
Filmmakers are encouraged to promote participation using approved graphics, official hashtags, and screening series promotional materials.

9. Code of Conduct
Inclusive & Respectful Environment
All participants, filmmakers, and guests are expected to contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming environment.
Zero Tolerance Policy
Harassment, hate speech, discrimination, or misconduct may result in removal from programming or disqualification.

10. Programming & Category Flexibility
Category Placement
To best represent submitted work, the Screening Series Director may reassign films into categories or programming blocks that better align with content and audience experience.

11. Miscellaneous
Rule Updates
These rules and terms may be updated as necessary. Significant updates will be communicated through official channels.

Agreement to Terms
By submitting a film, you confirm that you understand and agree to these rules and terms. Failure to comply may result in disqualification.

📧 For Inquiries or Support
Mr. John J. Cuie
Festival Organizer
📩 john.cuie@asfftv.com