Dates and Venue:
The Ames Documentary Film Festival (ADFF) will take place in Ames, Iowa on September 27, 2026.
Submission Format:
All films must be submitted through our official submission platform, FilmFreeway.
Films must be provided in high-quality digital formats.
The festival reserves the right to refuse films that do not meet technical requirements.
Eligibility:
Films completed after January 1, 2024, are eligible for submission.
Non-English films must include English subtitles.
Films must fall into one of the official festival categories as listed on FilmFreeway.
Each category has a maximum runtime of 40 minutes, inclusive of credits. Films exceeding the stated runtime may be disqualified.
Works-in-progress may be submitted, but the submitted version will be considered final for jury review. If selected, the final exhibition version must be delivered by the festival’s stated deadline.
Premiere status is not required; however, preference may be given to films that have not previously screened in the Ames area.
Originality and Rights:
Submissions must be the original work of the applicant.
The filmmaker must have the necessary rights and clearances for all content, including music and third-party footage.
Submission Fees:
The appropriate entry fee must accompany each submission. Fees are non-refundable.
Early bird, regular, and late submission deadlines and fees will be outlined on our submission platform.
Screening and Promotion:
By submitting your film, you grant the Ames Documentary Film Festival the right to screen your film at the festival without monetary compensation, both during the selection process and during the festival, if selected.
Screening dates, times, and venues are determined at the sole discretion of the festival and are subject to change.
The festival also reserves the right to change dates, venues, or presentation formats, including virtual or indoor screenings, due to circumstances beyond its control.
If your film is selected, you must provide a downloadable link within 48 hours of selection.
Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of your screening slot.
You also grant us the right to use excerpts, images, and trailers for promotional purposes.
The decision of the jury is final and not subject to appeal.
Filmmaker Attendance & Expenses:
The festival does not guarantee travel, lodging, or honoraria for selected filmmakers.
Notification:
All selected films will be notified through Film Freeway.
Due to the volume of submissions, individual feedback will not be provided.
Agreement:
By submitting your film, you agree to abide by the rules and terms of the Ames Documentary Film Festival.
The festival reserves the right to disqualify any film that does not comply with these rules or is deemed inappropriate for public exhibition.
