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FFTG Awards Film Fest® · Sixth Edition · 2026
(Global Digital Film Festival of the Year — LUXlife Creative & Visual Arts Awards 2025)

Where films and filmmakers live on.

🎬 WHAT THIS IS
An IMDb-qualifying, fully digital film festival built for how films are discovered today.

Not a temporary screening.
Not a single moment.

A system where your film — and your identity as a filmmaker — continues through its selection, nomination, or award.

Indexed. Searchable. Carried forward.

🎬 HOW FFTG WORKS
-Every film is watched in full.
-Each decision begins with a jury of filmmakers responding to the work instinctively.
-Final curation is shaped to ensure the overall selection reflects FFTG’s voice and direction.

Some films connect. Some don’t.
When they do, they stay.

🎬 THE JURY — We, The Chosen Ones®

A collective drawn from FFTG’s own alumni.

Invited. Not hired.

They watch, interpret, and respond — as filmmakers themselves.

📅 2026 DATES

Submissions Open — April 1, 2026
Early Bird — June 30, 2026
Regular — August 31, 2026
Final — September 25, 2026
Extended — October 18, 2026

Notification — November 15, 2026
Festival — November 29 – December 13, 2026
Winners — December 21, 2026 – January 1, 2027

🏆 WHAT YOU’RE COMPETING FOR

Top Honors — Statuette Recipients
All handcrafted by Society Awards — makers of the Emmy® and Golden Globe®

Film of the Fest
Announced January 1, 2027

Best Feature Film
Announced January 1, 2027

Best Screenplay
Announced January 1, 2027

People’s Choice
Voted by the audience · November 29 – December 13, 2026
Announced December 21, 2026

Filmmaker’s Choice
Voted by participating filmmakers · November 29 – December 13, 2026
Announced December 21, 2026

🎥 GRAND JURY CHOICE — 24+ CATEGORIES

Feature Film · Documentary Feature · Documentary Short
Short Film · Ultra-Short · Screenplay
AI-Generated Film · Vertical Film · Micro Drama
Podcast Storytelling · Animation · Experimental
Fashion Film · Music Video· Rap Video · AI-driven Music Film
Wedding Film · Travelogue
Female Filmmaker · LGBTQIA+ · Student Film · Young Storyteller

🎬 POSITIONING YOUR FILM

You choose how your work is positioned.
Each category is not just a format — it’s a signal.

A 7-minute film can remain within Student or Ultra-Short.
Or it can be placed in Short Film — and be judged alongside a wider field.

A documentary can stay within its form.
Or be presented as a Feature Film — defining how it’s seen beyond the festival.

There is no fixed path.
Only how you want your film to be perceived.

🎬 TALENT & CRAFT

Director · Actor · Actress · Supporting Actor · Supporting Actress · Cinematography · Editing · Sound Design · Music · Voice Over · Production Design

🎁 WHAT YOU RECEIVE
A permanent recognition page on fftgawards.com

IMDb recognition
Digital laurels and certificate

Ongoing visibility through FFTG’s digital ecosystem

Filmstro Pro access

🎬 TRANSPARENCY
To experience FFTG, visit fftgawards.com

What you see here is exactly what FFTG offers.
Nothing more. Nothing implied.

⚠️ SUBMISSION
Completed on or after January 1, 2025
English language or English subtitles required
All submissions via FilmFreeway only

Student and Young Filmmaker categories require valid ID

Once processed, your submission becomes your official record — across IMDb, your certificate, and your laurel.

By submitting, you confirm full rights to your work

Crafted by creatives.
Curated by instinct.
Rooted in destiny.

fftgawards.com

Overall Rating

Quality

Value

Communication

Hospitality

Networking

Yulia Travnikova

What an incredible journey! Thank you to the organizers for the constant support and for this wonderful festival. This experience means the world to me as a filmmaker just starting out. So proud to be a part of it!
Marin Koval

April 2026

Helpful

Response from festival:

Hi Marin, Glad to be part of this journey with you, that’s what this is all about.
Ariana Richardi

My honor to be nominated by FFTG festival! Thank y’all for ur attention and recognition! I’m glad and much appreciated for your interest in my movie Therapy! 🎬❤️

April 2026

Helpful

Response from festival:

Thank you, Ariana. Wishing you the best for the journey ahead.
Akiko Matsumoto

As a filmmaker, I deeply appreciate the platform your festival provides for independent voices. The opportunity to share my work with an engaged audience and fellow creatives means a great deal to me.

January 2026

Helpful

Response from festival:

Thank you Akiiko.
Cloie Wyatt Taylor & Eric Prochnau

First-time submitting and working with FFTG -- we will absolutely be returning. Top notch communication and support. Appreciate you and your team.

January 2026

Helpful

Response from festival:

Thank you Cloie & Eric.
Alfredo Dias Gomes

It was a great honor to have participated in the FFTG AWARDS.

December 2025

Helpful

Response from festival:

Thank you, Alfredo.

Add to List

Dates & Deadlines

April 1, 2026
Opening Date
June 30, 2026
Slate
August 31, 2026
Action
September 25, 2026
Cut
October 18, 2026
Wrap
November 15, 2026
Notification Date
November 29 – December 13, 2026
Event Date

Categories & Fees

🎬 Feature Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 FEATURE FILM: CATEGORY DESCRIPTION The Ultimate Canvas. Runtime: Exclusively for projects with a duration of 40 minutes or longer. Genre-Agnostic: We celebrate storytelling in all its forms—Social Issues, Horror, Comedy, Drama, Action, Experimental, Documentary, Animation, and beyond. Universal Eligibility: Open to filmmakers of all age groups. Year of Production: Must be completed in 2024 or later. Premiere: No premiere requirement. Self-distributed and online features are fully eligible for competition. All Official Selections automatically qualify for the People’s Choice, Filmmaker’s Choice, and Grand Jury awards.
- Slate
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $20
- Action
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $35
- Cut
- Standard: $60
- Gold Members: $40
- Wrap
- Standard: $65
- Gold Members: $45
Submit Now
🌱 Debut Feature Film
For a director's first feature-length film above 40 minutes runtime. Films completed on or after January 1, 2025
- Slate
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $20
- Action
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $35
- Cut
- Standard: $60
- Gold Members: $40
- Wrap
- Standard: $65
- Gold Members: $45
Submit Now
🌍 Documentary Feature Film
Completed on or after January 1, 2025 Eligible Formats: Documentary. A non-fiction motion picture dealing creatively with cultural, artistic, historical, social, scientific, or other subjects, with a running time of more than 40 minutes, including credits.
- Slate
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $20
- Action
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $35
- Cut
- Standard: $60
- Gold Members: $40
- Wrap
- Standard: $65
- Gold Members: $45
Submit Now
🌱 Debut Short Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 For a director's first short film under 40 minutes runtime.
- Slate
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $18
- Action
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $27
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $36
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
Submit Now
📼 Documentary Short Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 A non-fiction motion picture dealing creatively with cultural, artistic, historical, social, scientific, or other subjects, with a running time of 40 minutes or less, including credits. Eligible Formats: Documentary.
- Slate
- Standard: $15
- Gold Members: $13
- Action
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $35
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
Submit Now
✍️ Screenplay35
Category Description: Short Screenplay (Less than 35 pages) Eligibility Criteria: The screenplay should be unproduced and original. Rights and Clearances: Submitters must ensure that all rights related to the screenplay have been duly cleared. This includes, but is not limited to, intellectual property rights, copyrights, and any other proprietary rights.
- Slate
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $18
- Action
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $22.50
- Cut
- Standard: $35
- Gold Members: $31.50
- Wrap
- Standard: $35
- Gold Members: $31.50
Submit Now
👩 Female Filmmaker
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 Recognizes outstanding directorial achievement by a female filmmaker. Submissions here are specifically for the director's talent. Film length and genre do not apply.
- Slate
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
- Action
- Standard: $35
- Gold Members: $30
- Cut
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
- Wrap
- Standard: $50
- Gold Members: $45
Submit Now
🕰️ Short40
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 Short40 is open to all short films with a runtime of up to 40 minutes, across genres, styles, and formats. This category is intended for filmmakers working with expanded storytelling, character depth, and cinematic structure beyond short-form limits, while remaining within the short film format. All submissions are evaluated by the FFTG Awards jury & management for Official Selection, nominations, and awards, including applicable talent and craft categories. There is no premiere requirement. Films that have screened at other festivals or are available online remain eligible.
- Slate
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $18
- Action
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $27
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $36
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
Submit Now
⏱️ Short15
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 - Runtime under 15 minutes including credits. - All genres including Social Issue, Horror, Comedy, Drama, Action, Experimental, Documentary, Animation, ETC. - All age group. - Year of production from 2024 onwards and there is no premiere requirement but preferable. - All Officially Selected film projects automatically qualify for all honors and awards.
- Slate
- Standard: $15
- Gold Members: $13
- Action
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $18
- Cut
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $27
- Wrap
- Standard: $35
- Gold Members: $31
Submit Now
⚡ Short5
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 - Films 5 minutes or less, including credits - All format & genres including Documentary, Experimental, Animated, Social Issue, Horror, Comedy, Drama, Action, etc. - All age group. - Year of production from 2023 onwards and there is no premiere requirement but preferable. - All Officially Selected film projects automatically qualify for the Film of the Fest, Audience Choice and Spirit Award.
- Slate
- Standard: $10
- Gold Members: $9
- Action
- Standard: $15
- Gold Members: $13
- Cut
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $18
- Wrap
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $22
Submit Now
📲 Vertical Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 This category recognizes mobile-first cinematic storytelling, where form and narrative are designed together Format: Vertical (9:16) only Standalone narrative, documentary, or experimental film. Must be conceived and executed natively for vertical viewing Runtime: Any Story & Intent: A complete cinematic work with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Not episodic or serialized The vertical frame must be an intentional storytelling choice, not a limitation Eligibility: All.. Original work created specifically for vertical presentation Not Applicable - Horizontal films cropped, reformatted, or repurposed for vertical viewing Social media clips, reels, influencer content, or promotional videos Vertical Films are evaluated using the same storytelling, craft, and cinematic standards applied across the festival
- Slate
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $18
- Action
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $27
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $36
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
Submit Now
⚡ Short-Form Narrative / Micro Drama
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 Format Vertical (9:16) episodic narrative series designed for mobile-first viewing. All episodes must belong to the same story world. Structure 3 to 10 episodes per submission. Episode length: 45 seconds to 2 minutes each. Episodes must be submitted together, in correct narrative order. Runtime Total combined runtime: maximum 15 minutes, including credits. Story & Intent Serialized storytelling with character and narrative continuity. Each episode should advance the overall arc. Cliffhangers are welcome but not required. Eligibility Open to filmmakers of all nationalities. Original narrative work only. Not Eligible Standalone films, sketches, reels, vlogs, influencer content, or unrelated clips. Evaluation Judged on episodic storytelling, pacing, performances, and intentional use of the vertical frame, applying the same cinematic standards used across the festival.
- Slate
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $18
- Action
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $27
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $36
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
Submit Now
🎓 Student Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 For films made by currently enrolled students in higher education institutions (college, university, film school). Proof of student status (valid student ID or letter from institution) may be requested upon selection. All genres and lengths. - All Officially Selected film projects automatically qualify for the Film of the Fest, Audience Choice and Spirit Awards. - Student Applicants must submit proof of age with their submission (School ID, Letter from the school).
- Slate
- Standard: $15
- Gold Members: $10
- Action
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $15
- Cut
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $25
- Wrap
- Standard: $35
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
✨ AI-Gen Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 (since 2022). This category celebrates the convergence of AI technology and cinematic creativity, providing a platform for innovative storytellers. - Films must be primarily generated or significantly enhanced by AI technologies. This includes, but is not limited to, AI in scripting, animation, editing, and scoring. - The maximum length for submissions is 30 minutes. - Entrants must provide a detailed description of the AI technologies used in the creation of their film, including an explanation of how these tools contributed to the creative process. - All submissions must adhere to the general festival rules and guidelines.
- Slate
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $18
- Action
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $27
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $36
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
Submit Now
🎨 Animation Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 - Runtime open. - All genres.
- Slate
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
- Action
- Standard: $35
- Gold Members: $30
- Cut
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
- Wrap
- Standard: $50
- Gold Members: $45
Submit Now
🧪 Experimental Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 - The Experimental Film category celebrates innovative works that challenge traditional storytelling, visual language, and cinematic form. - This category is open to films of any length, genre, or theme that push creative and narrative boundaries through unconventional techniques, structure, sound, or imagery. - Story remains central, but how it’s told is entirely up to you. Who Can Submit: - Independent filmmakers, students, and production houses. - International submissions welcome (subtitles required for non-English dialogue). - Films may be live-action, animated, hybrid, or mixed-media. Length: - Short Form: Under 40 minutes - Feature-Length: 40–120 minutes Completion Date/ Other Parameters. - Premiere Status: No premiere requirement (but indicate if World, International, or Online Premiere). - Language: Non-English films must include English subtitles (hardcoded or separate .SRT file).
- Slate
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
- Action
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $25
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $35
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
Submit Now
🌈 LGBTQIA+ Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 - Runtime open. - All genres.
- Slate
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
- Action
- Standard: $35
- Gold Members: $30
- Cut
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
- Wrap
- Standard: $50
- Gold Members: $45
Submit Now
🎧 Podcast Storytelling
Completed on or after January 1, 2025 Podcast Storytelling recognizes narrative-driven audio works, including documentary series, scripted fiction, investigative storytelling, and long-form episodic podcasts. Eligible submissions should demonstrate strong storytelling, structure, pacing, and sound design. Both standalone episodes and serialized projects are welcome. Submissions are evaluated on narrative clarity, originality, and storytelling craft — not listenership or platform metrics.
- Slate
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $15
- Action
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $25
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $30
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $35
Submit Now
🌱 Young Filmmaker
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 This category specifically focuses on anyone under 18 regardless of whether their film was made in a formal school program or independently. - All Officially Selected film projects automatically qualify for the Audience Choice and Spirit Awards. - Applicants must submit proof of age with their submission (picture school ID, driving license, ID card).
- Slate
- Standard: $10
- Gold Members: $9
- Action
- Standard: $15
- Gold Members: $13
- Cut
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $18
- Wrap
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
Submit Now
🎵 Music Video
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 Duration: Maximum 10 minutes, including credits. This category celebrates the art of visual storytelling designed to accompany and enhance a musical composition of any genre (excluding rap, which has its dedicated category). Criteria for Judging: - Uniqueness and inventiveness of the video's core idea and visual approach. - How effectively the visuals convey a narrative, evoke emotion, or complement the song's lyrics/themes. - Quality of camerawork, lighting, color grading, production design, and overall visual appeal. -The rhythm, flow, and effectiveness of the editing in sync with the music. Performance: The strength and impact of the artist's or actors' performances within the video. - Quality production values, clear audio-visual synchronization, and professional execution. - The video's ability to leave a lasting impression and enhance the musical experience.
- Slate
- Standard: $15
- Gold Members: $12
- Action
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $15
- Cut
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
- Wrap
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $25
Submit Now
🎤 Rap Video
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 Duration: Maximum 10 minutes, including credits. This dedicated category honors exceptional music videos created specifically for the rap/hip-hop genre. We are looking for videos that not only visually interpret the track but also embody the spirit, lyrical depth, and cultural impact unique to rap music. Criteria for Judging: - Lyrical Interpretation & Amplification: How profoundly the visuals interpret, enhance, or add new layers of meaning to the rap song's lyrics and themes. - Genre Authenticity & Innovation: The video's fidelity to the rap/hip-hop aesthetic while demonstrating creativity and pushing boundaries within the genre. - Artist Presence & Performance: The dynamic and commanding visual presence of the artist(s), and how their performance drives the video's narrative and impact.
- Slate
- Standard: $10
- Gold Members: $9
- Action
- Standard: $15
- Gold Members: $13
- Cut
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
- Wrap
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
Submit Now
🎛️ AI-Driven Music Film
Where sound and image move as one. Open to AI-driven or AI-assisted music videos/film exploring story with rhythm, visuals, and form. Duration: up to 5 minutes. People’s Choice Eligibility: Story-driven entries may be selected for the People’s Choice showcase. YouTube or streaming links accepted.
- Slate
- Standard: $10
- Gold Members: $8
- Action
- Standard: $15
- Gold Members: $12
- Cut
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $15
- Wrap
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
Submit Now
👗 Fashion Film
Films completed on or after January 1, 2025 - Runtime open. - Documentaries, Shorts, Music videos, Feature Films, Animation, Experimental included. - We would like to invite all filmmakers, designers, agencies and labels to submit their films. - This category is dedicated to fashion, style, and beauty. - Narrative features/shorts that showcase the craft of fashion storytelling, and explore diversity and creative complexity of this alluring industry.
- Slate
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $13
- Action
- Standard: $30
- Gold Members: $27
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $36
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
Submit Now
💍 Wedding film
- Crucial Submission Detail: Requires uploading a copy of the wedding card on FilmFreeway, along with a permission/release document from the bride and groom. - Celebrates unique, unscripted wedding films that capture genuine emotions and spontaneous moments. Focuses on raw, emotional storytelling of the couple's special day. - Films less than 30 mins. Year of production open and there is no premiere requirement but preferable. - Eligible for various award categories.
- Slate
- Standard: $15
- Gold Members: $13
- Action
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
- Cut
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $35
- Wrap
- Standard: $45
- Gold Members: $40
Submit Now
🌍 Travelogue Film
This category is designed for filmmakers who use their lens to tell engaging stories about their travels, blending personal experiences with cultural insights to provide a deep and resonant viewing experience. - Year of production open. CATEGORY DETAILS: Narrative Focus: - Your film should tell a compelling story that goes beyond showcasing locations. - Weave personal narratives with cultural interactions to create a story that offers depth and insight into the destinations. Visual Quality: - We seek films with exceptional cinematography that highlights the beauty and uniqueness of the places featured. - High visual quality is crucial to complement and elevate the storytelling. Length: - Films must not exceed 30 minutes, ensuring your story is told concisely and powerfully. Who Should Submit? - Aspiring and seasoned filmmakers who are passionate about travel and storytelling. - Creators who want to showcase how travel has impacted their perspective and understanding of the world.
- Slate
- Standard: $20
- Gold Members: $15
- Action
- Standard: $25
- Gold Members: $20
- Cut
- Standard: $35
- Gold Members: $30
- Wrap
- Standard: $40
- Gold Members: $35
Submit Now

Other Festivals You May Like

Sponsored

Montreal Women Film Festival
View Listing
Sponsored

Big Apple Film Festival and Screenplay Competition
View Listing
Sponsored

NEW YORK INDIE SHORTS AWARDS
View Listing
Cannes Film Awards
View Listing
London Art Film Awards
View Listing

Other Festivals You May Like

Sponsored

Montreal Women Film Festival
View Listing
Sponsored

Big Apple Film Festival and Screenplay Competition
View Listing
Sponsored

NEW YORK INDIE SHORTS AWARDS
View Listing
Cannes Film Awards
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London Art Film Awards
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Yulia Travnikova

Response from festival:

Ariana Richardi

Response from festival:

Akiko Matsumoto

Response from festival:

Cloie Wyatt Taylor & Eric Prochnau

Response from festival:

Alfredo Dias Gomes

Response from festival: