The Big Sur Film Festival is a monthly online independent short film competition.
We are based in the beautiful artist community of Big Sur, California.

Our goal is to promote and showcase emerging filmmakers. We believe every story deserves to be told and we want to provide that opportunity.

Each month, our jury made up of local artists and filmmakers selects the winners through private screenings. Monthly winners will have the option to be featured on our official website/instagram (with filmmakers consent) and be qualified to participate in our live festival in the fall.

Awards & Prizes

Each month, Big Sur Film Festival will award the best projects through private screenings.

Every submitter can enter multiple categories in order to increase their chances to receive an award.

Every Official Selection will receive our Official Laurel.

All WINNERS will additionally have the option to purchase one of our beautiful Big Sur Film Festival trophy.

* PLEASE NOTE: The Best Indie Short category also acts as a qualifier for our yearly, in-person festival. Please add this category along with your other submissions if you would like to be considered.

Rules & Terms

Minimum runtime per film: None
Maximum runtime per film : 35 mins.
All foreign language submissions must be subtitled in English.
Films must be submitted via online screener ONLY through FilmFreeway.
Your film will be privately screened and evaluated by our team of filmmakers, artists, and producers, and is subject to multiple screenings based upon how many categories you have entered.

20 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Robert Erniso

    This film festival team was excellent with their communication, hospitality, they kept their word.

    September 2021
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  • Yusuf Khan

    Great festival! I was honored to have my film accepted into this wonderful festival. Definitely submit your film to Big Sur Film Festival!

    September 2021
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  • Omalik Rosado

    Really good festival! I will definetly submit again

    September 2021
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  • John Kestner

    I'm so happy that my short script, Golem With Fries, was a Best Short Screenplay winner at the Big Sur Film Festival.
    Very beautiful award too!

    September 2021
    Helpful
  • Michael Boston

    Very cool people with an open mind and a sense of humor. Proud to have been a part of this festival.

    September 2021
    Helpful