The Black River Film Festival, now in its second staging, continues its mission to nurture emerging filmmakers and ignite creativity in the heart of rural Jamaica.

As a groundbreaking platform on the Island's South Coast, the festival serves as a catalyst for positive change, fostering growth, innovation, and expansion within the film industry. It plays a vital role in curating cultural heritage and connecting local and global audiences for a lasting impact.

This year’s focus is on Connecting Cultures, Distribution, and Co-Production, offering a unique opportunity to collaborate and expand Jamaican content across international borders. Through workshops, seminars, and film screenings, the festival enables professionals to learn from industry experts while showcasing their work in the country where the iconic James Bond film catalogue first took shape.

By driving these connections and facilitating cross-border partnerships, the Black River Film Festival continues to strengthen Jamaica’s cultural and cinematic influence on the global stage.

Life Time Achievement
All round Short Film
Best Animated Feature
Best Cinematography
Best Visual Effects
Best Production designs
Best Sound Effects
Best Narrative Short
Best Documentary Short
Best Newcomer Filmmaker

BRFF 2025 - Rules and Terms
Eligibility:
• Open to short films, feature films, documentaries, animations, and web series made between 2022-2025.
• Films must be original works by the filmmaker(s). Non-English films must include English subtitles.
Submission Guidelines:
• Submission: Submit films via the BRFF online portal or Vimeo/YouTube link.
• Film Length: Shorts up to 30 minutes, features over 31 minutes, and web series episodes 5-20 minutes.
• Fees & Deadlines:
o Regular Deadline: March 31, 2025
o Late Deadline: April 30, 2025
• Multiple entries are allowed with separate submissions and fees.
Selection & Screening:
• Judged on creativity, storytelling, and cultural impact.
• Notifications by May 20, 2025. Selected films will be screened during the festival, June 27–28, 2025.
• Filmmakers grant BRFF screening and promotional rights.
Awards:
• Awards for Best Short, Feature, Documentary, Youth Film, and Audience Choice.
• Winners may receive cash prizes, trophies, or distribution opportunities.
Terms:
• Filmmakers must own all rights to their work. Films with hate speech or illegal content may be disqualified.
• Filmmakers are responsible for travel costs, while BRFF may provide accommodation.
• Materials (stills, trailers) may be used for festival promotion.
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For inquiries, contact ava@blackriverfilmfestival.com or +1 (876) 209-1822.