The first edition of Film Sign Mallorca took place in 2017 with the sponsorship of the Mallorca Film Commission, with the proposal of creating a new space for the dissemination of Spanish and international audiovisual productions, especially for an audience whose only means of communication is through sign language. In its early years, Film Sign Mallorca showcased more than 50 films, enabling creative and brilliant directors to broaden access to their productions while contributing to the dissemination and appreciation of the Spanish audiovisual market.

Even with the considerable increase in film production worldwide, broadcast channels for specialized short films remain scarce, often limited to screenings at competitive festivals. This is why every platform, initiative, or cultural vehicle that creates opportunities for the diffusion of these works becomes fundamental for the visibility, appreciation, and growth of this sector.

They say that a good movie is one that you can watch without sound and still love it. Those are the kinds of films that Film Sign Mallorca prioritizes—stories that are visually powerful, universally accessible, and aligned with the festival’s core theme of inclusivity. However, the festival also welcomes films with sound, recognizing their creative and artistic value. While priority will always be given to works that reflect the festival’s commitment to accessibility and sign language culture, there will be a dedicated program of screenings for films that fall outside this category, ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives have a space to be seen and heard.

The festival is supported and enriched by the collaboration of the Mallorca Film Institute and the Federation of Deaf People of the Balearic Islands, reinforcing its mission to bridge communities and celebrate cinema in all its forms.

Silent Film Awards — Premier Competition

The Golden Horse Awards represent the festival’s highest honor. They celebrate films that embody the spirit of visual storytelling and accessibility, remaining true to the festival’s mission.

Best Narrative Short Film – $2,000
Golden Horse Award + cash prize to the director/producer.

Best Documentary Short Film – $2,000
Golden Horse Award + cash prize to the director/producer.

Best Animated Short Film – $2,000
Golden Horse Award + cash prize to the director/producer.

Best Experimental Short Film – $2,000
Golden Horse Award + cash prize to the director/producer.

Jury Prize for Best Silent Film – $1,000
Diploma certificate + cash prize to the director/producer.

General Film Awards — Parallel Showcase

To encourage diversity and broaden participation, the festival also includes a dedicated competition for films with sound. While not part of the Golden Horse Awards, these prizes honor excellence in storytelling across all formats.

Best Narrative Film (Sound) – $1,500
Diploma certificate + cash prize to the director/producer.

Best Documentary Film (Sound) – $1,500
Diploma certificate + cash prize to the director/producer.

Best Animated Film (Sound) – $1,500
Diploma certificate + cash prize to the director/producer.

Best Experimental Film (Sound) – $1,500
Diploma certificate + cash prize to the director/producer.

Audience & Recognition Awards

Audience Award – $750
Chosen by festival attendees. Diploma certificate + cash prize to the director/producer.

Diploma Certificates
All finalists in both the Silent and General Film competitions will receive an official diploma certificate recognizing their achievement.

✓ All films must be submitted in English or with English subtitles (if in a different language).

✓ All films must have been made on or after 2024

✓ Short films must not exceed 30 minutes.

✓ Films must not have been screened online. However, we do not place restrictions on its festival release status. ✓ Selected films cannot be taken down after being made public

✓ All selected filmmakers must ensure that their films do not have any copyright issues. Your film will be automatically disqualified if there are problems.

✓ We can promote clips of your film on social media, based on the press kits you provide.

✓ We reserve the right to change the date and venue of the festival in special circumstances. All filmmakers will be informed of any changes via email and our online platforms.

✓ By submitting to us, you agree to these terms and give us your consent and right to screen your film in front of a live audience and, in special circumstances, online screening. We will contact you in case of these special circumstances first.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Marc Beriault

    I was very proud to be part of this year's festival. They were very kind and communicative. We look forward to being a part of the festival again in the future.

    June 2023
  • David Thompson

    Being chosen for this festival was an absolute honour, and seeing my film "Travel Light" on the big screen alongside a global audience was a fantastic experience!

    June 2023
  • Steve Lucchese

    The team behind this festival is amazing! Though I was unable to attend to the festival in person, they had great communication during the whole process and showed great support regarding my short film's participation in this event. It was a thrill to see that the short film was well received! Hoping I will be able to join this amazing festival in the near future!

    June 2023
  • Gloria Greene

    We sincerely appreciate the chance to showcase our film, and we are thrilled to accept the esteemed Best Experimental Short Film award, highlighting the exceptional communication and organization of your festival. Thank you once again Film Sign Mallorca Festival.

    June 2023
  • Yaron Shears

    An absolute honour to have screened our film at FSM! Thank you for the privilege

    June 2023