We are delighted to invite filmmakers globally to submit their entries for the second annual "Change the Script" short film festival, an event that will conclude with a special screening of the selected films that receive awards. This unique festival, scheduled for Wednesday, July 31st, 2024, is organized by Cine-Psych, a group of Mental Health professionals committed to utilizing cinema to highlight and explore issues at the intersection of Mental Health and Social Justice. Despite a lack of funding, our initiatives have been recognized and celebrated internationally, showcasing the profound ability of film to foster societal transformation.

"Change the Script" aims to present thought-provoking fiction and documentary films from around the world, examining the intricate relationship between Mental Health and Social Justice. We are eagerly searching for submissions that not only captivate and inform but also have the power to influence and initiate dialogue. These films will be featured at the historic Westdale Theatre in Hamilton, Ontario, a venue revered for its long-standing support of independent and alternative cinema since 1935. Recently renovated, the theatre is equipped with cutting-edge digital projection and sound systems, offering an exceptional platform for showcasing your work.

This year's festival will culminate in a screening event dedicated to the films selected to receive awards, providing a grand finale that celebrates the transformative power of cinema in addressing critical societal themes. The Westdale Theatre, with its rich cultural heritage and dedication to delivering premium cinematic experiences, is the perfect setting for this gathering of filmmakers, Mental Health advocates, Social Justice enthusiasts, and the general public.

We invite you to take part in this incredible opportunity to connect with a global audience and contribute to a movement that leverages cinema for social impact. Submit your film to the second annual "Change the Script" film festival and join us in honoring the award-winning films that embody the spirit of change and advocacy within the realms of Mental Health and Social Justice.

Best New Film-maker
Best Canadian short
Best Anti-Stigma Short
Best Social Justice Short
Most Thought Provoking Short
Best Short informed by Lived Experience

Best Director
Best Cinematography
Best Sound Design
Best Actor

REQUIREMENTS
-Films can be Fiction or Documentary based
-Films must have been completed after Jan. 1, 2015
-Films must have a run-time of 20 minutes or less
-Non-English films must have English sub-titles
-Films must have either a direct or metaphorical connection to Social Justice and/or
Mental Health Themes
-Films containing cruelty to animals, Extremist or propaganda content will be excluded
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-You may submit more than one film, but you must complete a separate entry form and pay the entry fee for each film.
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-Film selection for the festival will be made by the screening committee comprised of experts in mental health and film
-All filmmakers will be notified via email if selected
-Of the Selected films, only the Award winning films will feature in the screening event
-we will require a digital copy of the film if chosen to be screened

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Thomas McNicholas

    Thankyou for selecting ‘Cause and Effect;’ Brilliant Festival

    March 2024
  • Thank you to Change the Script Film festival for showcasing our short film and for helping us to reach a wider audience.

    The communication and engagement with the festival was excellent throughout and we'd recommend anyone thinking about submitting their film to do so for the next festival.

    December 2023
  • Kathryn Georghiou

    Over the moon to have my film selected for this incredibly important festival. The communication was great too. I just wish I could have gone to the screening (but I'm based in London, UK). Thank you!

    December 2023
  • Congratulations to Change the Script Film Festival for your dedication in bringing a needed focus on mental health! We are so honored that "Marble Me Free" was awarded "Most Thought-Provoking" Short Film at your esteemed festival. This animated film based on the poem by Starlit Swan, who has Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, is about the "dark night of the soul" journey through physical and emotional pain. Please see www.marblemefree.com for mental health resources.

    December 2023