CutShorts is a grassroots short film event built to give filmmakers a real opportunity to showcase their work on the big screen.
We are selecting 10 short films to be screened at Picture House Chester, with one overall winner taking home a £1000 cash prize.
This is not about perfection or big budgets — it’s about storytelling, creativity, and effort. Whether you’re just starting out or already experienced, if you’ve made something you’re proud of, we want to see it.
CutShorts is designed to create a space where filmmakers can share their work with a live audience, connect with others, and be part of something that feels real.
Selected films will be screened in a professional cinema environment and judged by an independent panel.
This is more than just a screening — it’s a chance to be seen.

Awards & Prizes

BEST SHORT FILM. - £1000

The winning film will be selected by an independent judging panel on the night of the event.
Each selected film will receive an allocation of nine tickets for cast, crew and supporters. A link will be provided to purchase tickets, upon selection. One ticket is free allocated to film holder.

PLEASE NOTE: to be eligible for the cash prize, at least one representative of the production must be present at the event.

Rules & Terms

Eligibility
Open to filmmakers of all levels.
Must be aged 18+.
Open to UK-based & International filmmakers.
Films must be original work.
You MUST attend the event in order to receive cash prize.
Maximum runtime: 20 minutes.
Minimum runtime: 1 minute.
Must be submitted in digital format (DCP preferred but not essential)
Resolution: Minimum 1080p recommended.
Audio must be clear and understandable.

Content standards
We are inclusive — but we still expect effort and intent.
Your film should:
Have a clear idea, story, or concept. Show thought and planning (not rushed or unfinished.)
Demonstrate basic filmmaking. (framing, sound, editing) Your film does NOT need: High-
end equipment. Big budgets. Professional actors. But it DOES need: Purpose, creativity,
effort
What We Will Not Accept
Unfinished or rushed projects.
Extremely poor audio/visual quality that impacts viewing.
Copyright-infringing material (music, footage, etc.)
AI-generated films with no creative input.

Music & Rights
You must own or have permission to use all music and content
Royalty-free or original music is recommended
You are responsible for all rights clearance

Selection Process
A maximum of 10 films will be selected for screening
Films will be chosen based on:
Storytelling
Creativity
Effort & execution
We are not looking for perfection — we are looking for promise.

Event Format
Selected films will be screened at the CutShorts event
The winner will be decided by:
Independent judging panel
Each selected film will receive an allocation of 10 tickets
These are intended for cast, crew, and supporters.

Submission Deadline
Deadline: 6th may 2026
Late submissions may not be considered