The Push Play Animated Film Series is a celebration of independent animation, imaginative storytelling, and visionary artists from around the world. Originally developed as a showcase for animated short films and creative voices within the independent film community, the series has evolved into an exclusive Film Village Streaming festival experience dedicated to expanding opportunities for animators, student creators, and independent studios.

Blending the energy of animation fandom with the spirit of independent cinema, the Push Play Animated Film Series highlights a wide range of animated works including experimental animation, anime-inspired projects, family-friendly shorts, sci-fi and fantasy storytelling, digital art films, and innovative mixed-media productions. Through its partnership with Film Village Streaming, selected filmmakers gain opportunities for non-exclusive film distribution, allowing creators to maintain ownership of their work while reaching audiences through a growing global streaming platform.

The festival extends beyond screenings by offering filmmaker interviews, creator spotlights, behind-the-scenes features, and curated digital showcases designed to help animators connect with wider audiences and fellow creators worldwide. With a mission centered on accessibility, creativity, and artistic innovation, the Push Play Animated Film Series continues to evolve into a year-round destination where independent animation can be discovered, celebrated, and shared globally.

Awards & Prizes

​​​Jury Prizes: Best Feature, Best Short, Best Student Film

Rules & Terms

SELECTION OF WINNERS & PRIZES

FILMS WILL BE SELECTED BY THE FILM VILLAGE JURY ALONG WITH THE FESTIVAL PROGRAMMER & PRODUCER. FROM THESE SELECTED FILMS THE PUSH PLAY AWARDS WILL BE PRESENTED.

FILM VILLAGE IS NOT LIABLE NOR WILL BE HELD RESPONSIBLE IF COPYRIGHTED MATERIALS OR UNAUTHORIZED MATERIALS ARE INCLUDED IN THE FILM. IT IS THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE APPLICANT TO SECURE PROPER PERMISSION FROM THE COPYRIGHT HOLDER OF MUSIC, STOCK FOOTAGE OR ANY OTHER MATERIAL WHICH COULD VIOLATE ANOTHER ENTITY’S COPYRIGHT OR EXCLUSIVE USE OF THE MATERIAL.

FILM SUBMISSION NOTES

 FILMS MUST HAVE BEEN COMPLETED WITHIN THE LAST FIVE (5) YEARS
 IF YOUR FILM IS SELECTED, YOU MUST PROVIDE A HIGH RES MP4
 ALL NON-ENGLISH FILMS MUST HAVE ENGLISH SUBTITLES
 NO EDITS OR CHANGES WILL BE MADE IN FILMS BY NBAFF FOR ANY REASON
 FILM VILLAGE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO INVITE FILMS
 THE SUBMISSION OF ALL FILMS REPRESENTS AN AGREEMENT TO THE POLICIES SET FORTH IN THE RELEASE FORM AND THE SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

I hereby agree to permit my film to be screened at the Push Play Animated Film Series. I am the sole owner of all legal rights and title and have the authority to submit the enclosed materials to Film Village. I guarantee that all rights necessary for a film festival screening have been obtained.

I will indemnify and hold harmless the Film Village, individually and collectively, from and against all claims, demands, losses, damages, judgments, liabilities and expenses (including, but not limited to attorney’s fees and costs of the court) which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, publicity, screening, credits, and loss of or damage to the screening materials entered.

I understand that, unless otherwise specified, Film Village provides no financial compensation for any exhibition of my work.

Film Village reserves the right to use the submitted publicity information, photos, and excerpts in its marketing and publicity, including online formats, for the festival and any other uses related to the promotion of the festival.
3 Reviews
Overall Rating
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  • Jason Loftus

    Grateful to have been a part of the festival. Great city and festival theatre.

    October 2018
    Helpful
  • Austin Sheeley

    Awesome festival! Lots of fun

    October 2018
    Helpful
  • Max Levine

    great festival! awesome location, and good lineup. so happy to have my film included. organizers were super nice and helpful. i hope this is something that picks up and attracts more people in the years to come!

    September 2017
    Helpful