Discover your roots, live the art. “URBAN ROOTS” is more than just a festival; it’s a transformative journey of rebirth and rediscovery. Our roots, symbols of our connection to the past, become the starting point for exploring the artistic and cultural heritage that defines our collective identity. In an era dominated by the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, we risk losing touch with what makes us unique. This festival offers an emotional journey, a chance to rediscover and celebrate the artistic expressions and stories that have shaped our communities.

URBAN ROOTS creates a vibrant dialogue between past and present through a variety of artistic expressions, with a special emphasis on the power of cinema:
🎥 Cinema & Short Films
🎶 Live Music Performances
🎭 Theater & Performance Art
🖼️ Visual Arts
📖 Literature & Poetry
🍴 Culinary Experiences

Cinema takes center stage, offering a unique lens to explore our shared histories and modern interpretations. Through curated screenings, filmmaker showcases, and thematic discussions, URBAN ROOTS embraces the visual storytelling that connects generations and fosters understanding.

“URBAN ROOTS” is a hub of creativity where tradition meets innovation. It’s a space where culture intersects with modernity, generating new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the arts as an essential part of society. Emerging filmmakers and established creators come together to reinterpret the past, bringing fresh narratives to life on the screen.

Awards & Prizes

Best short film
Best acting performance
⁠⁠Young Award - Best short film

Rules & Terms

- Eligibility
Submissions are open to filmmakers worldwide. Films of all genres, styles, and formats are welcome, including feature films, short films, documentaries, animations, and experimental works. All films must be completed after January 1, 2024. Directors must be under the age of 35 at the time of submission.

- Submission Guidelines
Films must be submitted through FilmFreeway.
All submissions must include a digital screener. Physical media (DVDs, Blu-rays) will not be accepted.
Short films cannot be longer than 20 minutes in length.
Submissions must include the following:
- A synopsis of the film
- A high-resolution poster/image for promotional use
- A list of credits
- Films must include English or Italian subtitles.

- Entry Fees
All submission fees are non-refundable. Fee waivers are only granted in exceptional cases and at the discretion of the festival organizers.

- Selection Process
All films will be reviewed by a panel of judges. Selection decisions are final and will not be subject to appeal. Filmmakers whose films are selected will be notified via email.

- Screening Rights
By submitting your film, you grant Urban Roots Festival the non-exclusive right to screen the film during the festival. Selected films may also be used for promotional purposes, including trailers, posters, and other festival-related marketing materials.

- Copyright and Permissions
The submitter must own or have the necessary rights to all content in the film, including music, visuals, and text. The festival is not responsible for any copyright infringements.

- Exclusivity
There is no exclusivity requirement; films that have been screened at other festivals or distributed publicly are still eligible.

- Technical Requirements
Films must be available in the following formats for screening: DCP, MP4, or MOV. The submitter is responsible for providing the final screening version by the deadline specified after selection.

- Attendance
Filmmakers are encouraged but not required to attend the festival. Special opportunities for Q&A sessions, panels, and networking events will be available for attending creators.

- Disqualification
Submissions that do not adhere to these rules may be disqualified without refund. The festival reserves the right to disqualify any film that promotes hate speech, violence, or discriminatory content.

- Liability
The festival will not be held responsible for technical issues with submitted materials or screening formats.

- Acceptance of Terms
By submitting your film to the Urban Roots Festival, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to all terms and conditions outlined in this document.