CypherBlu Film Festival

Submission Criteria:
Applicants may submit narrative short films or music videos of any genre. Materials must be no older than 2 years. We accept YouTube and Vimeo links, as well as uploaded HD files through the FilmFreeway platform. All content should be in English or include subtitles burned in.

Submission Fee:
$25 Standard Deadline

Nudity and Explicit Language:
We welcome a wide range of creative expressions, including mature themes, but ask that you keep in mind the tone and intent of your submission. Nudity should be appropriately blurred or omitted, and explicit language should be used sparingly. Submissions that contain explicit or graphic content (such as X-rated material) will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis before acceptance. Our goal is to foster creativity and artistic freedom while maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment for all attendees.

Projects with AI:
Are allowed, but they must be tasteful, original, and meaningful. AI should enhance the storytelling, not overshadow it. The creative vision should remain rooted in human ingenuity. Projects should maintain high technical quality, respect copyright laws, and avoid misleading or unethical content. Transparency about AI’s role in the production process is essential, and we encourage creators to use AI responsibly.

Copyright and Permissions:
Filmmakers must ensure they have obtained all necessary rights and permissions for the content featured in their films, including music, images, and any copyrighted material.

Originality:
Content should be original works created by the submitting filmmaker(s). Plagiarism or unauthorized use of others' work is prohibited.

Premiere Status:
There are no premiere status limitations. If your project has been shown at other festivals we will still accept your submission.

Format and Technical Requirements:
Films links must be submitted in HD, with Stereo audio. The link must public or unlisted with no password needed. No less than 3 minutes and no more than 8 minutes long including credits.

Submission Deadline:
Our standard deadline is April 30, 2025 by midnight. No submissions will be accepted after April 30, 2025.

Language and Subtitles:
Films in languages other than English will need to be subtitled in English. Subtitles are required to be burned into content.

Selection Process:
We have a selection committee that reviews submitted films. Only the top 15 semi-finalist per genre (Short Film and Music Video) will be screened at the festival June 1,2025.

Screening Rights:
If you are chosen as a finalist, you are authorizing CypherBlu to screen your film at the festival June 1,2025. Unless we get a signed document stating otherwise.

Promotional Materials:
CypherBlu Film Festival may request promotional materials such as stills, posters and filmmaker bios for use in marketing and promotion for the semi-finalist.

Attendance: While not always required, filmmakers may be encouraged to attend the festival. Transportation to and from the studio for the screening and for shoot dates will not be provided.