Submission Rules
Eligibility
We accept live-action and animated short films between 3-15 minutes. Submissions must be completed and received before the official submission deadline. Late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances.
Screening Format
Selected films must be supplied in 1920 x 1080 ProRes HQ .mov or .mp4 format. Alternate formats may be accepted only at the festival’s discretion.
Premiere Status
We do not require premiere status. Previously screened films are welcome.
Fees & Costs
Submission to Phantom Frames is free of charge. However, the festival does not provide screening fees, travel/accommodation, or freight reimbursement for selected filmmakers.
Notification
Filmmakers will be notified of Official Selection via FilmFreeway status updates and/or email. Unsuccessful submissions will be marked as "Not Selected" on FilmFreeway. Due to volume, individual feedback will not be provided.
Age Requirement
There are no age restrictions for filmmakers submitting to the festival.
Ineligible Content
We do not accept rough cuts, music videos, advertisements, corporate/training videos, home videos, AI films, pornography, or incomplete works. Submitted films must be final versions.
Selection Process
The decision of the Phantom Frames Selection Committee is final. No appeals or negotiations will be entertained.
Classification Guidelines
Films must be appropriate for screening within Australia’s classification range of G, PG, M, MA15+, or R. We will not consider content falling outside these classifications.
Awards
Phantom Frames will present a total of thirteen awards (see Awards section for full list). Winners will be announced during the event.
Submission Does Not Guarantee Selection
Entry into the festival does not guarantee Official Selection or screening.
Rights & Permissions
Submissions must be made by the legal rights holder of the film. By submitting, you confirm that all rights (including music, visuals, and performances) have been cleared and that the festival is granted the non-exclusive right to screen your film as part of the event.
Subtitles
All films not in English must have English subtitles burnt-in. Films in English do not require subtitles unless the dialogue is difficult to comprehend.
Marketing Use
By submitting, you agree that Phantom Frames may use stills, posters, and up to 30 seconds of footage for promotional purposes across social and print media platforms.
Terms for Phantom Frames
Festival Overview
Phantom Frames Film Fest is an RMIT student-led horror short film festival. It provides an annual platform for original, genre-defying storytelling, with a focus on short-form horror and thriller content from around the world.
Festival Program
The festival will feature a curated selection of short films to showcase bold cinematic thriller works.
Peer Review Process
All film submissions are peer-reviewed by a panel of four passionate reviewers. Films selected for the official selection will receive a statement of peer review, recognising the merit and creativity of the work.
Selection Criteria
Reviewers are seeking films with engaging, original narratives, regardless of a filmmaker’s background or experience. We value well-crafted production and post-production, including clear storytelling, thoughtful editing, and polished sound and visuals.
Data & Privacy
All copies of both successful and unsuccessful submissions will be permanently deleted after the festival concludes. We respect your ownership and privacy.
Festival Website Representation
Films selected for Official Selection will be featured on the festival website, including:
A high-quality promotional still
A short synopsis (submitted by the filmmaker)
Technical specifications
Delivery of Screening Copy
If you experience any difficulty delivering your screening copy, please contact the festival team in a timely manner. We are happy to assist within reason to ensure your film is part of the event.
Festival Laurels
All Official Selection films will receive custom festival laurels for promotional use.
Language & Subtitles
Non-English language films are strongly encouraged. However, all such films must include burnt-in English subtitles using 85% white Helvetica, centre-aligned. This ensures consistency and accessibility for our audience.
Agreement
By submitting your film, you acknowledge and agree to abide by the official rules and terms of Phantom Frames Film Fest.
