Cagliari Essay Film

1. FEATURES OF THE WORKS
Participation is open to short films completed from 2023 onwards (except for the category REDISCOVERIES). All formats and techniques are allowed, provided the work features the characteristics of an "essay film."
The festival also welcomes hybrid works that combine the essay film with other genres, such as documentary or fiction, provided the essay film component remains a significant and recognizable part of the work.
Artists may submit published or unpublished works; a premiere is not required. However, works must not be publicly available on streaming platforms or online in any form before the festival.
Acceptance is subject to the sole and final judgment of the festival selection committee.

THEMES AND CATEGORIES
The participation categories are:

International
Competitive section dedicated to works of artistic value by national or international authors, without thematic or geographical restrictions. Works should explore cinematographic and audiovisual language through innovative forms and stylistic solutions.

Body and Mind
Thematic section dedicated to essay films exploring the depths of the mind and investigating the relationship with the body. This theme can be approached in all its possible facets.

Island
Competitive section dedicated to works of artistic value by authors born, domiciled, or residing in Sardinia. Works by non-resident or non-native Sardinian authors are also eligible, provided they have Sardinia as their location and/or main theme.

REDISCOVERIES: Category dedicated to films completed before 2023. Priority will be given to works of great value that have had limited or inconsistent distribution.

REARCHIVE: Section dedicated to movies that work with archive materials and found footage, transforming images from the past into new forms of visual thought.

Authors may submit multiple works in each category. A submission fee applies for each work entered. However, only one work per author can be selected as a finalist, even if submitted in multiple categories. Submitted works must be different from one another.
If the number or quality of participating films is insufficient to form three distinct categories, the organization reserves the right to merge or modify the sections without reducing the overall prize pool.

2. DURATION AND LANGUAGE
Films must be no longer than 30 minutes, including credits.
Films in Italian should preferably include subtitles in Italian and/or English.
Films in other languages must include subtitles in English and/or Italian.
Selected authors must provide subtitle files separate from the video (e.g., .srt, .sbv, .sub) to allow for possible translations.

3. TERMS OF PARTICIPATION
A submission fee is required for each work. The exact amount and any variations will be indicated on the registration platform for each category and deadline.
Participation implies full acceptance of these rules. Registration and payment must be made through FilmFreeway.

4. ADMISSION AND ELIGIBILITY
Only films submitted by the deadline will be admitted. Admission is decided solely and finally by the Selection Committee. Authors will be notified by September 30, 2026.
Screening copies of selected works must be received by October 15, 2026.

5. JURY
Winners will be chosen by two juries:

Expert Jury: composed of three professionals with proven experience in the film industry;

Emerging Jury: composed of film students, cinephiles, and emerging filmmakers, aimed at bringing fresh perspectives to the evaluation process.

6. USE OF FILMS
By registering for Cagliari Essay Film, the filmmaker or rights holder explicitly authorizes the organizers to publish texts, images, and photos in the catalog, communication channels, website, and to screen selected films during the festival and other cultural events promoted by Creative Factory Association, exclusively for cultural, non-commercial purposes. Authors will be informed in advance. No screening fees will be paid for films invited to the competition.

7. RESPONSIBILITIES
By signing the entry form, the participant:

Declares that the short film or images do not violate any laws or third-party rights, including copyrights;

Releases the organization from any liability for damages or disputes arising from the content or public screening;

Waives any legal action against the organizers, juries, and persons involved.

8. ARBITRATION AND FINAL CLAUSE
Any disputes will be resolved by an arbitration panel of three members:

One appointed by the organization (chair);

One appointed by the contestant;

One appointed by mutual agreement or, failing that, by the President of the Court of Cagliari.
For any matter not covered by these rules, the organization has the final decision.

9. ABOUT THE ORGANIZER
Cagliari Essay Film is promoted by CREATIVE FACTORY, an organization aiming to support audiovisual and contemporary digital art, foster emerging authors, and promote exchange between artists, local communities, and the public.

FAQ

Can I use animation?
Yes, as long as the characteristics of the essay film are respected.

Can I address personal topics?
Yes, essay films can include diary film elements.

If I was born or reside in Sardinia, can I participate in the International category?
Yes, without geographical or thematic limits.

If I am NOT born or residing in Sardinia, can I participate in the Island category?
Yes, if the film has Sardinia as its theme or location.

If I am born or residing in Sardinia, must my film address Sardinia in the Island category?
No, there are no thematic or location restrictions for Sardinian authors.

What does “only one film can be a finalist” mean?
Authors can submit multiple works, but only one can be selected as finalist.

What themes fall under the Body and Mind category?
Themes related to mental health, body relationship, sexuality, disability, introspection, and similar topics.