Healdsburg International Short Film Festival

Accepting short films under 20 minutes (films not publicly available on YouTube)

IMDb Accredited • Cash Prize

The Healdsburg International Short Film Festival is a premiere destination for filmmakers who want their work celebrated, championed, and experienced by a passionate, cinema-literate audience in the heart of Sonoma County Wine Country, California.

Founded by the creators of both the Bodega Bay and Healdsburg International Short Film Festivals, our mission is simple: honor filmmakers, elevate their work, and connect them with industry professionals and fellow storytellers.

Prestige & Industry Recognition

Now in its next phase of growth, the Healdsburg Short Film Fest has become one of California’s most distinctive boutique festivals. Set among the world-renowned Coppola Wineries, we bring global storytelling to a region synonymous with creativity, craft, and artistic legacy.

Our jury has included some of the most respected voices in film, television, and music— including the iconic Tom Waits (fourth year!), Oscar-winning screenwriter Billy Ray (“Captain Phillips”), TV and film veteran Ed Begley Jr. (four years), Laraine Newman (SNL original cast), actor Jack McGee, writer Cindy Caponera, breakout director Ellie Foumbi (two years), and Imagine Entertainment producer Jon Shapiro.

For the 2026 season, we are thrilled to welcome producer Yasmin Rais (script supervisor, “Black Mirror”)—with more exciting additions coming soon.

A Global Showcase

Across our festivals, we’ve screened over 255 short films from 50 countries, including Academy Award winners and Cannes Special Distinction honorees. We champion bold voices, diverse perspectives, and emerging filmmakers poised for what’s next.

The Filmmaker Experience

Filmmakers consistently praise the warmth and hospitality of our festival. We offer:

Champagne opening reception

Filmmaker breakfast

Reel Talk wine mixer

Engaging Q&A panels with judges and industry guests

Local host-family accommodations (when available)

Your film will screen at the historic 350-seat Raven Theater, an iconic cultural venue in downtown Healdsburg that has hosted decades of celebrated performances and premieres.

Join Us in Wine Country

Come share your story with us. Meet fellow artists, connect with industry professionals, and experience the rare blend of prestige, intimacy, and welcoming community that defines the Healdsburg International Short Film Festival.

Submit your film and be part of the magic in beautiful Sonoma County.

$4000 in cash prizes:

Grand Jury Prize
Audience Favorite Prize
Cinematic Trailblazer Prize
Best Student Film

All awards to be listed in IMDB

RULES & TERMS

NO DCP REQUIRED FOR PRODUCTION (Saves you money!)

Short film not to exceed 20 minutes.
*SPECIAL CONSIDERATION BY INVITATION- films that exceed 20 minutes may be included by invitation only.

Films must be submitted through FilmFreeway.

All selected entries are REQUIRED to include a mini press pack with a one-paragraph synopsis, a short bio of the filmmaker for promo use, a cast list, and high-quality promotional photos, including the main film poster and filmmaker contact information. Incomplete submissions are not guaranteed consideration by the selection committee.
*Student films must be submitted with an academic affiliation to be considered.

All content submitted must have legal copyright permissions.

If the film is part of the official selection, the submitter gives permission for it to play in up to two "Best of the Festival" or "Highlights of the Festival" screenings following the main festival. And agrees to permit portions of all video and images submitted to be used briefly in festival promos, trailers, website, and advertising.
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REQUIRED SPECIFICATIONS:

Films must have been completed in 2023 or later.

Films cannot appear on public YouTube ("Unlisted YouTube" and Vimeo are okay).

Non-English speaking films MUST have English subtitles.

AUDIO = Stereo (not surround sound)

PROJECTION FILE = ProRes preferred, MP4 File format (High quality) is acceptable. Data rate must be greater than 20 Mbits/per second.

ASPECT: Minimum pixel dimensions: 1920x1080. (or letterboxed within that). NO anamorphic)

Overall Rating

Quality

Value

Communication

Hospitality

Networking

Cindy Lee

The experience of the Healdsburg International Short Film Festival was terrific from the start. Communication with festival directors, Pamela and Kirk, and the festival team was so warm, welcoming, attentive, and fun. We were excited to screen DnhMuzic: My Music, My Journey among an incredible curation of such fascinating global films and stories. The events and opportunities to meet the other filmmakers during the festival were so inviting. Regrettably, an accident the day before coming prevented our attendance, and we missed an undoubtedly memorable occasion.

December 2025

Helpful
Jared N. Wright

What a wonderful festival to be a part of! Kirk and Pamela clearly love cinema and filmmakers. They create such a warm environment for artists to feel right at home. Also, the quality of films is top-notch. I hope to be back next year!

October 2025

Helpful
Jesse Cowell

This was one of the highlights on our 2025 festival run. We were hosted/housed by amazing local film supporters, treated with the utmost respect and had the best experience watching all the other filmmaker's work (which was all top tier). Many festivals are only attended by other filmmakers and their family/friends. At Healdsburg, we had a 200 plus filled theater filled with cheers from people who love the art form. Amazing time.

October 2025

Helpful
Hope Silver

This festival was truly unforgettable! This was the very first festival to let me know my film had been accepted. My 12-minute documentary Hope is on the Way was shown on Opening Night.

Sometimes part of the shorts program can be disappointing, but here, they were all excellent! Huge thanks to Kirk and Pamela Demorest, industry veterans, for creating such a wonderful festival.

October 2025

Helpful
Brian Foyster

The Healdsburg International Short Film Festival pours as much heart into its weekend as the town does into its wine. Every staff member was welcoming, gracious, and clearly in it for the love of cinema. It’s rare to find a festival this well-curated and this genuinely kind — a perfect blend of artistry and hospitality.

October 2025

Helpful

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Dates & Deadlines

October 2, 2025
Opening Date
December 31, 2025
Early Bird Deadline
June 19, 2026
Regular Deadline
July 10, 2026
Late Deadline
July 24, 2026
Notification Date
September 25 – 27, 2026
Event Date

Categories & Fees

Comedy
We celebrate the power of laughter with bold, sharply crafted comedic storytelling. We’re seeking films that sparkle with wit—whether clever and smart, joyfully goofy, delightfully silly, or rooted in sharp observational insight. Surprise us, charm us, make us laugh in ways we didn’t see coming. We welcome all comedic voices that elevate humor with heart, craft, and originality. Please note: we generally steer away from gross-out humor, cruelty-based jokes, depictions of animal suffering, or horror-comedy.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Drama
Seeking the Unpredictable & The Profound We are looking for dramatic works that breathe life into the personal with narrative agility and distinct, atmospheric "cool." For us, performance is paramount; we champion films where the acting is visceral, believable, and carries the weight of the story. We are searching for clever writing that breaks the mold—fresh structures, unpredictable flows, and often mature themes that showcase diverse perspectives. We prioritize character-driven nuance over didactic political messaging, heavy-handed domestic abuse tropes, or or overly difficult-to-watch cruelty. If your film combines a unique vibe with superb acting, we want to see it.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Documentary
Cinematic Truth & Visual Poetry We are seeking non-fiction works that prioritize cinematic language just as much as their subject matter. We look for the unique, the untold, and the visually arresting—films that transcend standard reportage to become genuine works of art. Whether your approach is poetic, ethereal, quirky, or heavy, we value a strong directorial voice and impeccable craft. We welcome mature themes and difficult conversations, provided they are handled with nuance. Please note: We steer away from broadcast-style news segments, didactic reports, and gratuitous shock value.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Animation
Narrative Soul & Visual Mastery We are searching for animated works where technical brilliance meets solid, character-driven storytelling. We champion the art of movement in all its forms—from stop-motion, claymation, and puppetry to hand-drawn, CGI, and mixed media. We are particularly drawn to unique aesthetic techniques and filmmakers who break the conventions of traditional flat animation. Crucially, we are looking for cinema, not slides; we prioritize fully realized motion and narrative structure over static storyboards or purely abstract experiments lacking character focus.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Romance
The Art of Connection & Undeniable Chemistry We are seeking films that expertly capture the intoxicating energy of love. For this category, magnetic chemistry between the leads is super important. Stories can be quirky, goofy, or deeply dramatic. We champion offbeat tones, tear-jerkers, and the most charmingly mismatched couples—however unconventional the pairing (a fish and a bird, perhaps). We look for narratives that explore connection in all its funny and complex forms, stepping decisively beyond overdone tropes like dating app scenarios and AI partnerships. We generally shy away from stories defined by domestic violence or tragic, life-ending conclusions.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Action/Adventure
We're looking for Action and Adventure films that put a magnetic protagonist front and center. Think of those iconic leads who own the screen—the kind of character you can't look away from. Your story's action, danger, and spectacle should propel your main character forward, revealing who they are through what they face. We want to feel their personal stakes in every chase, every fight, every impossible choice. What catches our eye? A tightly focused narrative built around one compelling central figure. We tend to pass on ensemble pieces or films where the lead doesn't command the story. And while we love ambition, any special effects need to enhance the experience, not pull us out of it—seamless execution matters. Show us a character worth following into the fire, and we're all in.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Science Fiction
We're looking for Science Fiction films anchored by compelling lead characters who drive the story forward. Whether you're exploring distant galaxies, alternate realities, or near-future dystopias, your protagonist(s) should be the heart of the narrative—not just observers of your world, but active participants with real stakes. World-building matters, but it should reveal itself through the story, not replace it. We love imaginative concepts and thoughtful details, but be mindful of pacing. Many emerging sci-fi filmmakers linger too long on props, backgrounds, or slow-burn development that stops the narrative momentum. Your universe should unfold naturally as your characters move through it, not through extended showcases of your production design. Show us inventive ideas grounded in human (or non-human) experience. Give us characters we care about navigating worlds we've never seen. Keep the story moving, and we'll follow you anywhere.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Thriller
We're drawn to Thrillers that get under your skin—films that build tension through smart storytelling, not just shock value. Psychological thrillers are especially welcome here: give us mind games, moral ambiguity, and characters trapped in impossible situations where every choice tightens the noose. Your protagonist should be our anchor through the suspense, whether they're the hunter, the hunted, or something more complicated. We want to feel the paranoia, the dread, the creeping realization that something is very wrong. A note on content: while we appreciate films that explore dark territory, we tend to pass on stories steeped in misogyny, excessive cruelty, or graphic violence. Tension and terror come from what you imply as much as what you show. The best thrillers make us feel unsafe without beating us over the head. Keep us guessing. Keep us anxious. Make us think twice before turning off the lights.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Dramedy
Ah, the sweet spot where laughter meets heartache. Dramedy is that delicate balance—films that find humor in life's messy complications and honest emotion in its absurdities. These are stories that make you laugh one moment and feel a lump in your throat the next, often in the same scene. We're looking for films that capture the tragicomic nature of real life. Your characters should feel authentic, flawed, and relatable as they navigate situations that are simultaneously funny and deeply human. The best dramedies don't toggle between comedy and drama like a light switch—they blend them naturally, the way life actually works. This is one of our biggest categories because it's where filmmakers often do their most personal, observational work. Whether it's awkward family dynamics, quarter-life crises, unlikely friendships, or small-town eccentrics, show us the humor and the heart in equal measure. Make us laugh. Make us feel. Ideally, make us do both at once.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Family
We're looking for films that truly bring everyone together—stories that kids will love and adults will genuinely enjoy, not just tolerate. The best family films don't talk down to younger viewers or bore the grownups; they work on multiple levels, with heart, humor, and imagination that transcends age. Whether it's a whimsical adventure, a heartfelt story about friendship, or a tale that sparks wonder, your film should be accessible and engaging for all ages. We love stories that celebrate curiosity, kindness, resilience, and the bonds that connect us—universal themes that resonate across generations. A gentle note: while we respect all perspectives, we tend to focus on stories with broad, inclusive appeal rather than those centered on specific religious themes or teachings. Show us something magical. Show us something meaningful. Show us something fun. Show us a story that a six-year-old and their grandparent can watch together and both walk away smiling.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $20
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $15
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $30
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $22
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $40
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $30
Submit Now
Student
This category celebrates emerging filmmakers who are honing their craft—and we take student work seriously. We accept student films across all genres (except experimental and horror), but what we're really looking for is passion, vision, and a distinctive voice. We can tell the difference between a homework assignment and a film made with real fire. Show us a story you had to tell, not just one that checked off course requirements. We want to see your perspective, your risks, your artistic choices—evidence that you poured genuine labor and talent into every frame. Strong characters matter here too. Give us a compelling lead who drives the narrative forward with clear stakes and purpose. One technical note: sound quality is crucial. You don't need a Hollywood budget, but we do need to clearly hear your dialogue and sound design without distraction. Poor audio pulls us out of the story faster than anything else. Show us you're a filmmaker with something to say. Show us your voice.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $10
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $7
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $15
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $11
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $25
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $18.75
Submit Now
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION BY INVITATION
This category is merely for films that don't fit the specifications but have been invited to the festival.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: Free
- Student: Free
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: Free
- Student: Free
- Late Deadline
- Standard: Free
- Student: Free
Submit Now
Micro Short
Micro Short (less than 6 minutes duration, not on YouTube) - Short on time, big on impact. This category is for films that grab you by the collar and don't let go—pure, concentrated storytelling with zero fat. We're talking full-throttle commitment to a single moment, idea, or punchline. Make us laugh until our sides hurt. Shock us. Devastate us. Delight us. Whatever you're going for, hit it hard and stick the landing. These films should end with the audience still reeling—whether from absolute belly laughs, complete shock, or a gut-punch of emotion. Mature themes? Absolutely. Gore? Pass. We want bold, fearless storytelling, not cheap gross-outs. You've got mere minutes (or seconds) to make us feel something powerful. No room for setup that doesn't pay off. No wandering. Every frame, every beat must earn its place. Be audacious. Be precise. Make every second count.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $15
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $12
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $25
- Student: $15
- Gold Members: $21
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $35
- Student: $25
- Gold Members: $29
Submit Now
Indigenous Storytelling Short (Worldwide)
This category honors short-form storytelling from Indigenous filmmakers and Indigenous communities worldwide, whose cultural histories, traditions, and perspectives enrich the cinematic landscape. Narrative, documentary, animated, and Indigenous works are welcome.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $15
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $12
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $15
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $12
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $25
- Student: $20
- Gold Members: $20
Submit Now
Stories For A Green Planet (ecology, conservation, and sustainability)
This category is dedicated to stories that inspire hope, action, and a deeper connection to our world. We are looking for short films (documentary, narrative, or animation) that spotlight the planet, environmental advocacy, and the human stories driving positive global change. Whether your film focuses on rewilding landscapes, grassroots conservation, sustainable innovation, or social and ecological justice, we want to see it. Show us the challenges, but more importantly, show us the solutions and the people fighting for a better tomorrow.
- Early Bird Deadline
- Standard: $15
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $12
- Regular Deadline
- Standard: $15
- Student: $10
- Gold Members: $12
- Late Deadline
- Standard: $25
- Student: $20
- Gold Members: $20
Submit Now

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Cindy Lee

Jared N. Wright

Jesse Cowell

Hope Silver

Brian Foyster