Film n' Dem," presented by Disctopia in collaboration with Soho House Connect Cities: Charlotte, is a captivating event designed to illuminate the creative community with a showcase of short films, each handpicked to engage and provoke thought among an audience of cinema lovers and cultural enthusiasts. These awards celebrate the cinematic artistry of short films and documentaries. They are given for the most captivating and engaging short film. They honor short films that dare to be creative and push the limits of visual storytelling, inspiring us to think beyond the conventional and unlock new worlds of imagination. This exclusive gathering aims to bring to light the stories that challenge, entertain, and inspire through the lens of both emerging and established filmmakers.

As the film screenings unfold, attendees will be treated to diverse genres and narratives, celebrating the artistry and craft of short film production. These screenings are not just viewings but are intended to be interactive experiences, encouraging dialogue between creators and audiences and deepening the appreciation for the filmmaking process and the powerful stories being told.

"Film n' Dem" is more than an event; it's a community experience designed to foster connections among Charlotte's creative circles. It provides a rare opportunity for filmmakers to receive immediate audience feedback, for cinephiles to discover new works, and for everyone to engage in meaningful conversations about art, cinema, and creativity.

Whether you're a filmmaker looking to showcase your work, a film enthusiast eager to explore new narratives, or someone searching for a culturally rich evening out, "Film n' Dem" is the place to be. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and entertained in an environment where film and music meet to create an unforgettable experience.

Awards & Prizes

Best Short Film Award

Price: $3,000 Cash Prize
Recognition: Awarded to the short film that demonstrates excellence in storytelling, direction, and production quality. It represents the best film of the festival overall.

Most Innovative Film Award

Price: $1,000 Cash Prize
Recognition: Celebrates a short film that pushes the boundaries of creativity and introduces groundbreaking techniques in filmmaking. This award honors originality and a unique approach to storytelling.

Audience Choice Award

Price: $1,000 Cash Prize
Recognition: Voted on by the audience, this award goes to the film that resonates most with the viewers, offering them an engaging, entertaining, and memorable experience.

Additional Perks for All Selections:
Disctopia Placement: All selected films will receive a unique feature on the Disctopia platform with an option for royalties (optional), providing filmmakers with an opportunity to monetize their films and gain exposure.

These awards aim to celebrate a wide range of creative talents, from established to emerging filmmakers, offering a platform for diverse voices to shine.

Rules & Terms

Rules and Terms for "Film n' Dem" Film Festival
1. Eligibility
Only short films and documentaries that meet the submission guidelines are eligible for selection in the "Film n' Dem" Film Festival.
Filmmakers must own all necessary rights to the content in their submission, including but not limited to music, footage, and images.
Films publicly distributed or premiered before submission may still be considered, though priority may be given to works that have not been widely released.

2. Submission Agreement
By submitting a film to "Film n' Dem," the filmmaker grants Disctopia and its partners, including Soho House Connect Cities: Charlotte, the non-exclusive right to screen the film during the festival.
All selected films will have the option to be featured on Disctopia's platform under a royalty arrangement, as outlined in a separate agreement provided after selection.
Filmmakers are responsible for securing all necessary permissions and releases for the content submitted. Disctopia is not liable for any claims arising from submitted materials.

3. Promotional Rights
By submitting a film to the festival, filmmakers grant Disctopia the right to use clips, stills, and trailers from the film for promotional purposes related to the festival and Disctopia's promotional activities. This includes but is not limited to:
Online and Social Media Promotion: Excerpts or visuals will be used on Disctopia's website, social media platforms, and other promotional materials.
Public Relations: Promotion through press releases, advertisements, and media partnerships.
Event Promotion: The filmmaker's name, film title, and associated imagery will be used to promote future Disctopia-related events and festivals.
Filmmakers understand that any promotional materials used will be designed to promote the festival and showcase the filmmaker's work in a positive light.

4. Festival Participation
Filmmakers agree to participate in the festival's promotional activities, including interviews, Q&A sessions, or social media engagement, if Disctopia requests. Participation is not mandatory but is highly encouraged to maximize exposure for both the filmmaker and the festival.

5. Intellectual Property
Filmmakers retain full ownership and rights to their submitted works.
Disctopia does not claim ownership over the films but retains the right to promote the selected films under the terms outlined in this agreement.

6. Royalty and Distribution Terms (Optional)
Filmmakers whose films are selected for Disctopia placement will receive the opportunity to enter into a separate agreement for royalty-based distribution on the platform.
This agreement will detail the terms under which Disctopia may feature the film for viewing and the revenue-sharing model should the filmmaker choose to monetize their work through the platform.

7. Cash Prizes
All cash prizes for the top awards (Best Short Film, Most Innovative Film, and Audience Choice) will be distributed within 30 days of the festival's conclusion.
If there are any disputes regarding the awards or prize distribution, Disctopia's decision will be final and binding.

8. Limitation of Liability
Disctopia will take reasonable care to protect the intellectual property and materials submitted by filmmakers. Still, it cannot be held liable for any unauthorized reproduction, use, or distribution by third parties.
Participation in the festival implies acceptance of these terms. Disctopia will not be liable for any claims, damages, or legal proceedings arising from a filmmaker's participation in the event.

9. Withdrawal of Submissions
Filmmakers may withdraw their submissions at any time before the festival. However, once a film has been accepted and screened, Disctopia reserves the right to continue using promotional materials in connection with the event's historical promotion.

10. Acceptance of Terms
By submitting a film, filmmakers agree to these terms and conditions. Disctopia reserves the right to modify these terms at any time. Any changes will be communicated to participants before the festival.