The "By the River Film Festival" in Veles, North Macedonia, is a celebration inspired by the majestic Vardar river and the rich cultural and poetic history of the city. It stands as a testament to the beauty of both nature and human creativity, offering a platform for filmmakers from around the world to showcase their unique artistic visions.

At this festival, diversity and individuality are cherished, as it seeks out filmmakers who possess their own distinct artistic styles. Whether it's avant-garde experimentation, compelling storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, or innovative techniques, the By the River Film Festival is a haven for cinematic innovation and expression.

Nestled in the heart of Veles, a city steeped in tradition and creativity, the festival provides a picturesque backdrop for filmmakers and cinephiles alike to come together and celebrate the magic of cinema. From the tranquil banks of the Vardar river to the bustling streets adorned with history, the festival invites attendees to immerse themselves in a cinematic experience like no other.

Through screenings, discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, the By the River Film Festival aims to foster a vibrant community of filmmakers and film enthusiasts, nurturing creativity, collaboration, and cultural exchange. It's not just a showcase of films; it's a celebration of the art form itself and the diverse voices that contribute to its richness and vitality.

Join us at the By the River Film Festival in Veles, Macedonia, and experience the power of film to inspire, provoke, and unite across borders and cultures.

Awards & Prizes

Best Feature Film,

Best Documentary,

Best Short Film,

Best Screenplay,

Best Director,

Best Actor / Actress,

Best Cinematography,

Special Mentions

Rules & Terms

1. Eligibility Criteria:
a. Film Completion Date: Films submitted to the By The River Film Festival must have been completed after January 1st of 2020. Films completed before this date will not be considered for selection.
b. Nationality of Filmmakers: Submissions are open to filmmakers of all nationalities. There are no restrictions based on the country of origin of the filmmaker.
c. Language and Subtitles: Films must be submitted in their original language. If the original language of the film is not English, it must be subtitled in English.

2. Submission Categories:
a. Feature Film: This category includes narrative films with a runtime of 60 minutes or more. Feature films can encompass a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, thriller, and more.
b. Documentary Film: Non-fiction films that explore real-life subjects, events, or issues fall under this category. Documentaries can cover a wide range of topics, including social issues, history, nature, culture, and more.
c. Short Film: Short films with a runtime of less than 30 minutes are eligible for submission in this category. Short films may include narratives, documentaries, animations, experimental films, and more.

3. Submission Process:
a. Official Submission Channels: All film submissions must be made through the Film Freeway profile of By The River Film Festival
b. Individual Submission Requirement: Each film submission must be made separately. Filmmakers may submit multiple films to the festival, but each film requires its own submission.
d. Submission Deadline: The deadline for film submissions will be announced on the festival website., social medial profiles and Film Freeway profile. Late submissions will not be accepted.

4. Selection Process:
a. Selection Committee: A selection committee, appointed by the festival organizers, will review all submitted films and select films for inclusion in the festival program.
b. Notification of Selection: Filmmakers whose films are selected for inclusion in the festival program will be notified via email by the festival organizers.
c. Final Decision: The decision of the selection committee is final and cannot be appealed.
d. Screening Order: The festival reserves the right to determine the order and scheduling of selected films in the festival program.

5. Screening Guidelines:
a. Screening Venues: Screenings will take place at venues designated by the festival organizers in Veles, North Macedonia.
b. Program Schedule: The festival will schedule screenings for selected films and publish the program schedule on its official website.
c. Filmmaker Passes: Filmmakers whose films are selected for screening will receive complimentary passes to the festival.
d. Q&A Sessions: Q&A sessions with filmmakers may be organized after screenings, subject to availability and scheduling.

6. Awards and Recognitions:
a. Award Categories: Awards will be presented in each submission category, including
Best Feature Film,
Best Documentary,
Best Short Film,
Best Screenplay,
Best Director,
Best Actror / Actress,
Best Cinematography,
Special Mentions
b. Additional Awards: Additional awards may be presented at the discretion of the festival organizers.
c. Jury Decision: The festival jury, appointed by the festival organizers, will determine the award winners. The decision of the jury is final and cannot be appealed.
d. Award Announcement: Award winners will be announced at the closing ceremony of the festival.

7. Rights and Permissions:
a. Screening Rights: By submitting a film to By The River Film Festival, filmmakers grant the festival organizers the right to screen the film during the festival.
b. Filmmaker Rights: Filmmakers retain all rights to their films. The festival will not claim ownership of submitted films.
c. Promotional Use: The festival reserves the right to use excerpts from selected films for promotional purposes with proper accreditation.

8. Miscellaneous:
a. Rule Amendments: The festival organizers reserve the right to amend the rules and regulations at any time. Participants will be notified of any changes.
b. Dispute Resolution: In the event of any dispute, the decision of the festival organizers will be final.
c. Fee Refund: The festival reserves the right to not refund fees after a film submission has been completed.
d. Acceptance of Terms: Participation in the By The River Film Festival implies acceptance of the festival's rules and regulations.