Check The Gate Short Film Festival is a beacon of hope and inspiration for emerging artists in the world of filmmaking. Our mission is to provide a platform where the innovative voices of talented individuals can shine brightly. In our festival, we embrace and celebrate the multi-talented filmmakers who wear various hats behind and in front of the lens. We firmly believe that in today's cinematic landscape, being versatile is not just encouraged; it's a necessity. Our festival is a place where actors, writers, camera operators, editors, script supervisors, and many more roles unite to showcase their unique stories. With streaming platforms breaking down barriers, we are proud to foster an environment where these talented individuals can share their creations with an audience that includes seasoned professionals in the industry.

At Check The Gate Short Film Festival, we recognize that every film is a labor of love, and we're here to honor and applaud the dedication of these artists. Our bi-monthly competitions offer a stage for filmmakers to showcase their work, and each competition will see several exceptional films awarded and celebrated. As a grand finale, the winning films will have the distinct honor of an encore screening at our end-of-year live festival, ensuring that their brilliance is recognized by a wider audience.

In this celebration of artistry and storytelling, we aim to inspire, empower, and connect filmmakers from all walks of life. Check The Gate Short Film Festival is more than just a festival; it's a thriving community where creativity knows no bounds, and dreams are realized. Join us on this incredible journey as we continue to support and uplift the next generation of cinematic visionaries. Together, we are forging a path towards a brighter future for the world of filmmaking.

Awards & Prizes

All official selections and finalists will be adorned with a laurel badge. The winning films shall be presented with our prestigious Check The Gate Festival film reel and slate trophy. The announcement of awarded films will be prominently featured on our website and across our active social media channels. The Jury reserves the right to add categories to recognized achievements that may not be listed below.

Additionally, at the culmination of each year, our esteemed jury will meticulously choose the Best Short Films of the Year from the pool of Bi-monthly winners to participate in our Best of the Fest bash, set to take place in November 2024. This event promises to be an incredible celebration of talent and creativity. These films will have the opportunity to win our grand prize, the Best Of The Fest Trophy, symbolizing their outstanding achievement.

Rules & Terms

Rules & Terms:
– All submissions are to be sent digitally via FilmFreeway.
– We DO NOT accept films submitted on DVD.
– If you are submitting more than ONE entry, a separate submission is required for EACH film.
– You are providing Check The Gate Short Film Festival a nonexclusive limited license to use segments of your film (including trailers/film posters/press kits/teasers) for promotional purposes. – The film production may be from the last 2 years.
– All films must be UNDER 35 minutes.
– Submissions DO NOT guarantee selection.
– All international films MUST have English subtitles if in another language.
– Entrants confirm and warrant that they have the required legal authority to use all music, images, and content in the entry submitted.
– Works-in-progress and films with distribution are accepted.
– No restrictions on premiere or online statuses.
– Official Selections will be announced on the website, social media and partners.
– Films CAN NOT be withdrawn from the festival program after being selected.
Liability:
The individual or entity submitting the film hereby assumes full responsibility for all associated copyrights.

The submitter affirms they possess the legal authority to submit their film to the festival and, in the event of selection, grant permission for its screening.

By submitting the film, the filmmaker acknowledges and consents to the possibility of their film being chosen for screening at the Festival, with the potential inclusion of film fragments in mass media as part of the Festival's promotional efforts. The applicant assures that all essential rights for both visual and auditory elements have been appropriately secured, and that the exhibition will not violate or infringe upon any copyrights, including, but not limited to, music, imagery, and content.

Upon selection for the festival, the applicant acknowledges and agrees to provide an exhibition-quality digital screening file by the specified Date of Event. It is understood that the film, along with all associated copyrights, remains the property of the original author. In cases where screenings or information are found to be inaccurate or flawed, the festival organizer shall only be held liable in instances of gross negligence. The applicant is required to thoroughly review and accept the festival's regulations and participation guidelines.