PORT SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL 2023
The coolest film festival in the heart of the tropics.
Over $15,000 in cash & prizes.
BEST OPEN FILM - $5000 AUD
Get ready for an experience that will ignite your passion for filmmaking like never before! The Port Shorts Film Festival 2023 is the coolest film festival in the heart of the tropics, providing a platform for creatives to showcase their talent and connect with some of Australia's most accomplished film exponents.
This festival is not just about winning over $15,000 in cash and prizes, but about celebrating the art of short film and the creativity of filmmakers from around the world. The prize pool is just the icing on the cake, with the real reward being the opportunity to learn, grow, and be inspired.
The festival is proud to have acclaimed Australian actor Stephen Curry, Wolf Creek and Rogue Executive Producer Matt Hearn, and Aboriginal Australian award-winning actress, Rurrawuy Hick as official ambassadors, mentors, and judges. These industry experts will be with emerging filmmakers every step of the way, offering guidance and support to help them achieve their potential.
The Port Shorts Film Festival is more than just a competition - it's a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the power of storytelling. The festival provides a support network that stimulates the next generation of filmmakers and encourages them to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
Join us in Port Douglas in October 2023 for an experience like no other. Immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere, connect with other creatives, and celebrate the magic of short film. We can't wait to see you there, ready to showcase your talent and take your filmmaking career to the next level!
PORT SHORTS OPEN FILMMAKERS AWARD
With $5,000 AUD up for grabs, the only restriction on films entered for the Port Shorts Open Filmmakers Awards is a maximum film length of fifteen (15) minutes, including titles and credits.
Any genre
Open to worldwide
PRIZE: $5,000 AUD cash
PORT SHORTS MUSIC VIDEO AWARD
You must gain permission from all relevant parties involved with or responsible for the creation of the song and music video.
Open to worldwide
PRIZE: $1,000 AUD cash
PORT SHORTS DRONE AWARD
Maximum film length five (5) minutes, including titles and credits, and 50% of the film must feature drone footage.
Any genre
Open to worldwide
PRIZE: $1,000 AUD cash
PORT SHORTS YOUNG FILMMAKERS AWARD - up to 18 years
Maximum film length five (5) minutes, including titles and credits, and 18 and under at the time of screening,
Any genre
Open to worldwide
PRIZE: Professional equipment valued at approx. $2,000 AUD
PORT SHORTS JUNIOR AWARD - 13-15 years
Filmmakers are eligible if they are aged 13-15 years at the time of screening and are based in Australia.
Maximum length is two (2) minutes, including titles and credits.
Any genre
PRIZE: TBA
PORT SHORTS JUNIOR AWARD - up to 12 years
Filmmakers are eligible if they are aged up to 12 years at the time of screening and are based in Australia.
Maximum length is two (2) minutes, including titles and credits.
Any genre
PRIZE: professional equipment valued at approx. $750 AUD
PORT SHORTS LOCAL FILMMAKERS AWARD
Only residents of the Douglas Shire, Cairns Regional Shire, Mareeba Shire, Tablelands Shire, Wujal Wujal and Cook Shire are eligible to enter the Port Shorts Local Filmmakers Awards.
Maximum film length is four (4) minutes, including titles and credits.
Any genre
PRIZE: $500 AUD
ADDITIONAL PRIZES AWARDED:
AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD
PSYFA SHOUT OUT AWARD (Audience Choice)
PORT SHORTS JURY PRIZE
EMERGING ARTIST AWARD