GATFFEST stands proudly as the Caribbean's premier community short film festival, where the magic of storytelling comes alive on the big screen.

Born out of the acclaimed Greater August Town Film Project, now revamped as the UWI Community Film Project, GATFFEST has evolved into a cinematic celebration like no other. Our journey began with a vision to provide a stage for the talented graduates of the UWI Community Film Project to unveil their creations. The inaugural Greater August Town Film Festival (GATFFEST) took place from June 20-23, 2013, captivating audiences with a dazzling array of films crafted by the community's aspiring filmmakers. The festival's vibrant atmosphere radiated across The University of the West Indies and the Palace Cineplex theatre.
Since those humble beginnings, GATFFEST has blossomed into a significant cultural phenomenon, attracting a myriad of captivating submissions from both local and international talents each year. This festival serves as a dynamic platform, a spotlight on the brilliant minds behind the lens – directors, producers, casts, and crews alike. It's a captivating opportunity to showcase emerging filmmakers who weave compelling narratives through a tapestry of short films and documentaries.

As GATFFEST continues to flourish, it goes beyond being a mere film festival; it is an immersive experience. Join us for premieres, special events, and engaging panel discussions that bring together stakeholders from tourism, academia, and the film industry. We invite you to be a part of the cinematic journey, where professionalism meets pure fun, and where storytelling knows no bounds. Welcome to GATFFEST – where the reel adventure begins!

Rules & Terms

Welcome to the GATFFEST Film Festival, where creativity meets community, and we celebrate the art of storytelling! To ensure a positive and uplifting atmosphere, we've laid out a few guidelines that strike a balance between fun and professionalism:

Positive Spirit: The GATFFEST Film Festival aims for social upliftment and cooperation. Therefore, we do not accept submissions that ridicule, demean, incite hatred, or promote violence towards individuals or groups.

Film Selection: Our Film Review Committee is the powerhouse behind selecting and inviting films to be part of the festival. They have the authority to cancel any submission during the event.

Recognition: Films invited to the Official Selection will be awarded a Certificate of Participation, recognizing their contribution to the festival.

Eligibility Criteria:

Films must have been produced within the twenty-four months preceding the Festival.
Films should be less than 30 minutes in total run time, including credits.
Commitment: Once selected, a film cannot be withdrawn from the Festival program during the event.

Screening Exclusive: Films invited to GATFFEST cannot be shown outside the festival's official theaters before their official screening during the event.

Language and Subtitles:

Films must be presented in their original language, with English subtitles.
Films not in English or Jamaican Creole must have English subtitles.
Categories: Films can be submitted in various categories, including Drama, Comedy, Romance, Animation, Documentary, Musical, Science Fiction, Horror.

Judging Criteria: Our esteemed Judges will award excellence in various categories, including Best Directing, Most Original Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Local Film, Best International/Regional Film, Best UWICFP Film, Spirit of GATFFEST Award, Best of GATFFEST – "The Archie," and Best Animated Film.

Promotion: Films chosen for the Official Selection must use the GATFFEST Film Festival's "Official Selection" logo in all publicity. Award winners and distribution companies are also expected to use the exact wording of the awards in their promotions.

Rule Clarifications: In cases not covered by these rules and regulations, the Director of the GATFFEST Film Festival holds the authority to settle matters.

Acceptance: Participating in the GATFFEST Film Festival implies acceptance of all regulations and adherence to pre-selection conditions.

Let's embark on this cinematic journey together, where every frame tells a story and every filmmaker becomes a part of the GATFFEST legacy!
12 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
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Networking
  • Ryan Eccleston

    GATFFEST was a really good experience. Was happy to meet so many talented Filmmakers. Open and clear communication from the Festival staff. Good thing for Jamaica.

    July 2024
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We’re thrilled to hear you had a great time and connected with so many talented filmmakers. We take pride in maintaining open communication, and your feedback means so much. It’s wonderful to know you see GATFFEST as a positive force for Jamaica's film scene.

  • Javier Santiago

    Thank you for your management with this beautiful industry. Festivals like yours are what make the dreams of filmmakers like us come true.

    July 2024
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much for your heartfelt words! It's truly an honour to be part of the journey of filmmakers like you. We're passionate about supporting the industry and helping dreams come to life, and your gratitude means the world to us. Here's to many more stories and successes together!

  • GeorgeMalcolm TV

    Love the experience of GATFFEST!

    August 2023
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that you loved your GATFFEST experience. It’s always a pleasure to create memorable moments for our attendees, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for more!

  • Transitions Media

    Great festival, with a diverse range of work. Looking forward to future years and what the festival does for Jamaica's industry.

    July 2023
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you for the wonderful feedback! We’re so glad you enjoyed the diverse range of films at GATFFEST. We’re excited about what the future holds and committed to supporting and growing Jamaica’s film industry. We hope to have you back for many more years.

  • Wayne Williams

    Excellent production and great team

    July 2022
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled you enjoyed the production and had a positive experience with our team.