Richmond Film Network

The Short Film Series presented by the Richmond Film Network brings together innovative, independent storytellers and discerning audiences for its monthly program of short films, compelling moderated filmmaker Q&As, and intimate engagement between artist and audience in one of the "Best Places to Live and Work as a MovieMaker" [MovieMaker Magazine] and “the #1 Most Artistic Mid-Sized City in America" [Gogobot].

We hold the short in the highest regard and believe it is only limited in its run time. Our program delivers original stories that are relevant to the present moment and celebrates the art and craft of film on a consistent, predictable basis. This consistency makes Richmond Film Network's Short Film Series a breeding ground for artists, fresh ideas and future collaborations.

Domestic and international submissions from women, BIPOC, LGBTQ, and Virginia/DMV are especially encouraged to submit. We believe in providing a platform for creators across regions, genres, ethnicities, gender and orientation so that all audiences see themselves—and representation of the real world—in our programming.

Our first season ran seven months and screened 44 films from seven countries and 11 states before recognizing Series Standouts in 13 categories.

Our screenings take place at Bow Tie Movieland at Boulevard Square, which is the oldest cinema company in North America. Movieland utilizes DCP projection and supplies plenty of free parking, and a wide variety of concessions and adult beverages.

At the conclusion of the Series Season, the following achievements are recognized:

Best Film
Best International Film
Best DMV Film
Best Director
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Screenplay
Best Production Design
Best Score/Music
Best Actor
Best Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Best Supporting Actress

Trophies for these standout achievements are presented to the winners, and Official Selection filmmakers enjoy complimentary admission to their entire Short Film Series season (usually 7 events).

Submissions must be no longer than 25 minutes total run time and must have been created after November 1, 2022 (with exceptions on a case-by-case basis). Although not mandatory, Virginia premieres are preferred. If accepted, submissions must not be accessible online from time of notification through the date of its screening with us (generally a period of one month). Submissions must be in English, subtitled in English or silent.

For Season Two, submissions will be open for the entire Season (instead of opening/closing each month as we did in Season One). Due to the current limitations of FilmFreeway, you will not see each entry deadline, notification date or event date listed on this landing page. Please consult this section for that information.

SEASON TWO SCHEDULE TBA...

When you submit your film, it will be considered for programming in any month in the Series, not just the month it was submitted. It is possible for a film not to be accepted during the month submitted, but be accepted for a subsequent month considering thematic programming dynamics.

We cannot accept works in progress given the tight turnaround to produce a monthly Series. Consider submitting after your film is complete.

Submitters must have a complete FilmFreeway profile for their film with standard Electronic Press Kit assets including, but not limited to: film, trailer, poster, stills, director headshot, director bio, logline, cast and crew credits, etc. These help us properly promote your film and honor your win!

Submitters must have rights to the work submitted and understand that submission of the work authorizes Wheelhouse Productions and the Richmond Film Network Short Film Series to screen the work and use the work for any exhibition, education and/or publicity purposes. Wheelhouse Productions and the Richmond Film Network Short Film Series is not responsible for any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits or royalty infringement related to the work. A signed contract to this effect is required upon acceptance.

Submission fees are non-refundable.

Overall Rating

Quality

Value

Communication

Hospitality

Networking

Azwan Badruzaman

I was unfortunately unable to attend Richmond Film Network for my short FARMER ED but they really know how to make their filmmakers feel like rockstars regardless. I am so grateful to this team of film lovers to pour all their energy into this festival and bringing the community together. Thank you Richmond!

July 2023

Helpful

Response from festival:

Azwan, it was our pleasure having "Farmer Ed" screen with us. We hope to see more of your work in the future! TOTAL rockstar!
Cory Stonebrook

Richmond Film Networks Short Film Series was a wonderful experience. They are very communicative, friendly and run a great event. We were excited to be nominated for their awards and to screen with other great shorts!

July 2023

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Response from festival:

Cory, thank you so much! It was truly wonderful being able to share FLORENCE with Richmond. We are major fans of the entire Yeah Yeah Yeah Films team!
Samuel Van Fossen

The Richmond Film Network doesn't just make the filmmakers feel like a superstar, but also any guest who attends this event will be treated the same. It is a fun and encouraging network that only wants to encourage filmmakers not only in Virginia but around the world. Lisa Giles and her team always make you feel special and want you to be proud of the film you made no matter what.

June 2023

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Response from festival:

You ARE a superstar, Sam! Thanks for always making us laugh… usually inappropriately! 😆
Will Dunlap

Terrific presentation by Lisa and her team. Honored to share the stage with other devoted Virginia filmmakers. Strongly recommend.

June 2023

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Response from festival:

Will, thank you so much for sharing Gary & Celeste with us. The honor is ours.
Rickey Bird

Great festival. Great communication. Great people. I would highly recommend. Thanks for including us

April 2023

Helpful

Response from festival:

Thanks so much, Rickey! It was such a delight sharing Naked Zombie Girl is Back! with Richmond!