Beirut Shorts - NDU International Film Festival is celebrated annually under its constant theme, “The Power of Youth.” As the theme reflects, the Mission of Beirut Shorts is to (a) promote young filmmakers by screening their films in front of a large audience base, and (b) promote their talents and artistic excellence.

BSIFF accepts both Lebanese and international short films in all mentioned categories: Fiction, Documentary, Animation, Experimental, Web & New Media; applicants may be graduating students or independent filmmakers.

The center where the Festival is held at NDU is a well-equipped, boasting state-of-the-art technology in sound and video. The center is formed of an opera house theater with a seating capacity of 650, an arena stage theater with a seating capacity of 400, and two halls for workshops and seminars. The festival audience includes professional filmmakers, film and audiovisual arts students, film lovers, general audience, in addition to international guests coming from different countries.

Beirut Shorts believes in providing equal opportunities for Lebanese and foreign participants “in a spirit of openness that embraces all cultures, regardless of race, gender, color, religion, or sect;” BSIFF “promotes diversity, respect for human dignity and rights, and concern for the common good.”

Presented by: Beirut Film Society
www.beirutfilmsociety.org

International Competition:
Best International Short Fiction
Best International Short Documentary
Best International Short Animation
Best International New Media

National Competition:
Best Student Short Fiction
Best Student Short Documentary
Best Student Short Animation
Best Independent Short Fiction
Best Independent Short Documentary
Best Independent Short Animation
Best Independent New Media

Ministry of Tourism Award: "Of Land, People, and Culture"
Emile Chahine Award for Cinematic Excellence
Audience Choice Award

Rules and Regulations:

1- LEBANESE PREMIERE IS A MUST – FILMS THAT WERE SCREENED PREVIOUSLY IN LEBANON WON’T BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION FOR THE OFFICIAL COMPETITION.

2- FILMS LESS THAN 50 MINUTES AND PRODUCED AFTER OCTOBER 1, 2021 ARE ELIGIBLE FOR SUBMISSION.

3- BSIFF offers logistic support for directors of selected international films in case they want to travel to Lebanon to participate in the festival screenings and activities. (Conditions apply)

4- Submission fees are non refundable and non reimbursable under any circumstances; BSIFF does not reimburse any submission fees for films who are not selected for the festival program, or who withdrew their submissions at any time.

5- BSIFF retains the right to accept or decline any film, for whatever reason, without any explanation.

6- Applicants admit that they are authorized to submit the film, being the rights-holders or authorized representatives of the film.

7- BSIFF receives exhibition copy in QuickTime 1080p HD 8 bit uncompressed or Apple ProRes file or equivalent via a downloadable link.

8- All films must have adequate English subtitles.

9- Upon the announcement of the festival selection, films are not allowed to withdraw from the festival under any circumstances, any withdrawal should be declared prior to the public disclosure of the selection, and at least 4 weeks before the festival dates.

10- Screening fees must be declared prior to or upon submission. If a screening fee is only indicated after the official selection has been announced, the festival retains the right to revoke the film's acceptance.

11- Beirut Shorts International Film Festival (BSIFF) holds the right to:
• Use the selected films for trailers and publicity usage
• Screen the winning films in other related events inside Lebanon, and recommend the winning films to other international film festivals that collaborate with BSIFF after the approval of the filmmakers.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Rana Matar

    One of the best. Good Luck

    February 2024
  • Thomas Douaihy

    It was a great experience at Beirut shorts film festival I am so proud that my film has been selected in this professional festival. All the love and respect

    December 2023
  • Eliane Zouein

    The Beirut Shorts Film Festival offered a truly good experience. The event was well presented, guided by a dedicated team whose thoughtful work showcased meticulous attention to detail. Each individual's contribution resonated with depth, sending powerful messages and fostering hope. It was a cinematic celebration that left a lasting impression. Personally, it was a pleasure to see my short movie screened at the Beirut Shorts Film Festival and to receive the audience award. The platform provided a supportive environment for filmmakers, and I sincerely hope that every aspiring creator gets the chance to share their work in such a nurturing space

    December 2023
  • A place where one can discover each year emerging filmmakers in Lebanon.

    December 2023
  • Elaheh Godarzi

    Beirut festival was very great and unique, we were proud to participate in this festival, we are grateful to all dear friends who worked hard to organize the festival.

    December 2023