Best of Shorts is a short film competition recognizing exceptional short-form cinema from around the world.

Each month, we select the Best Short Film alongside Official Selections, providing filmmakers with recognition, editorial coverage, and distribution opportunities through our curated platform.

All submitted films have the opportunity to be featured through our various programs: monthly winners receive in-depth articles exploring their film's themes, story, and artistic vision, while we also periodically curate Top 10 selections from all submissions for website features and distribution. This editorial approach sets us apart - we're committed to thoughtful analysis and coverage of your work, not just showcasing the final product.

Best of Shorts runs year-round with monthly competition cycles. We accept films under 40 minutes across all genres: narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, and series pilots. Premiere status is not required.
Films are judged on storytelling quality, technical execution, and artistic vision. Our selection process is highly curated.

SUBMIT NOW!
We don't require premiere status, and submitting won't jeopardize your standing with other festivals. If we select your film, we'll coordinate timing to fit your festival run. Bonus: Best of Shorts Official Selection will great on your festival submissions.

Rules & Terms

We accept short films under 40 minutes across all genres - narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, and series pilots. Non-English language films should include English subtitles. Premiere status is not required.

SUBMISSION PROCESS
Submissions are made through FilmFreeway. You may upload your film directly or provide a private screening link with password. Each film requires a separate submission and fee (non-refundable).

PREMIERE STATUS & DISTRIBUTION
Submitting to Best of Shorts will not jeopardize your premiere status at other festivals. We accept films regardless of where they've screened or their online availability, though we prioritize films not yet widely distributed for our platform opportunities. If selected for distribution, we'll work with you on timing to accommodate your festival run or release plans.

RIGHTS & COPYRIGHT
You retain all rights to your film. By submitting, you confirm that you own the necessary rights (or have obtained permissions from co-producers), that all music and materials are properly cleared, and that we may use short clips, stills, and promotional materials to market your work. If selected for our platform, we'll contact you separately to arrange a non-exclusive distribution window.

Submission fees cover our team's review process and are non-refundable. We do not offer individual feedback on submissions at this time.

Best of Shorts reserves the right to modify these rules as needed. Updates will be posted on FilmFreeway and our website.

Questions? Contact us at submissions@bestofshorts.com