RIDDER FILM FESTIVAL is a hybrid film festival featuring monthly competitions and an annual live screening event in October, held in London and Los Angeles. Each month, we recognize exceptional talent through awards across categories such as BEST SHORT FILM, BEST FEATURE FILM, BEST DIRECTOR, and more.

Films selected as monthly winners are automatically considered for the annual live screenings in October, where the best of the best are showcased to live audiences in iconic film capitals at Soho House Screening Room in London and Fine Arts Theatre in Los Angeles, where filmmakers, audiences, and industry professionals come together to celebrate cinematic excellence.

Founded by acclaimed filmmaker Blake Ridder, the festival is committed to supporting filmmakers at all levels. Blake personally engages with the winning films each month, using his large social media following to highlight their achievements and provide invaluable exposure to a global audience.

Why Submit to the Ridder Film Festival?

Exclusive Recognition: Monthly awards celebrate exceptional talent and provide a prestigious accolade for filmmakers.

Global Exposure: Winners are spotlighted on Blake Ridder’s social media platforms, connecting your work with thousands of viewers worldwide.

Annual In-Person Event: The best films of the year are screened at our prestigious in-person events in London and Los Angeles.

Generous Rewards: Winners are eligible for CASH PRIZES, further supporting their creative endeavors.

Whether you're an emerging talent or an established filmmaker, the Ridder Film Festival is the perfect opportunity to gain recognition, connect with industry professionals, and celebrate the art of storytelling.

SPONSORS:
We’re excited to announce Hollyland and Zhiyun as official sponsors of the Ridder Film Festival! Their support not only helps elevate the festival experience, but also brings direct benefits to our filmmaking community. All official selections and workshop attendees will gain exclusive discounts on Hollyland and Zhiyun products, along with chances to win sponsored gear through our festival giveaways. This partnership means more tools in the hands of creators, empowering storytellers around the world to bring their visions to life.

Awards & Prizes

RIDDER FILM FESTIVAL is committed to recognizing and rewarding exceptional filmmaking talent. Here's what filmmakers can look forward to:

*** MONTHLY AWARDS ***

BLAKE RIDDER SPECIAL AWARD: All submitted films (short and feature) are automatically considered for the Blake Ridder Special Award. Each month, Blake Ridder selects one standout film for a personal video review, which is shared with his social media audience of over 1 million followers. This prestigious award offers unparalleled exposure and recognition, providing filmmakers with a unique opportunity to showcase their work to a global audience.

BEST SHORT FILM: Awarded to the most exceptional short film of the month.

BEST FEATURE FILM: Awarded to the most exceptional feature film of the month.

BEST DIRECTOR (Short & Feature): Recognizing outstanding vision and leadership in directing.

BEST SCREENPLAY (Short & Feature): Honoring exceptional storytelling and scriptwriting.

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY (Short & Feature): Highlighting visual excellence and creativity behind the camera.

BEST ACTOR (SHORT AND FEATURE): Celebrating an outstanding performance by an actor.

All officially selected films will receive NOMINATION LAURELS, and all winners will receive exclusive WINNER LAURELS. Winning films will also be featured on the RIDDER FILMS website for added exposure.

*** ANNUAL AWARDS ***

In October, the RIDDER FILM FESTIVAL hosts an IN-PERSON CELEBRATION in LONDON AND LOS ANGELES, screening the best films of the year and presenting the following prestigious awards:

GRAND JURY AWARD FOR BEST SHORT FILM: $500 cash prize, in-person screening, and a featured spot on the RIDDER FILMS WEBSITE.

GRAND JURY AWARD FOR BEST FEATURE FILM: $2,000 cash prize, in-person screening, and a featured spot on the RIDDER FILMS WEBSITE.

AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD: Recognizing the audience's favorite film from the in-person screenings.

FESTIVAL DIRECTOR'S AWARD: Selected personally by Blake Ridder, this award honors a film that stands out for its creativity, innovation, or emotional impact.

Rules & Terms

GENERAL RULES

Eligibility: The festival is open to filmmakers worldwide. Submissions must be completed via FilmFreeway with all required information. All genres are welcome.

1. Premiere Status: While premiere status is preferred, it is not compulsory for selection.

2. Film Completion Date: Films must have been completed after January 1, 2023.

3. Short Film Length: Short films must not exceed 30 minutes, including credits.

4. Submission Format: All films must be submitted in high-definition digital format via FilmFreeway. We do not accept physical submissions such as DVDs or Blu-rays.

5. Language: Non-English films must include English subtitles.

6. Submission Fees: All submission fees are non-refundable, even in the event of festival cancellation, except where prohibited by law.

7. Multiple Entries: Filmmakers may submit multiple entries, but each must be submitted separately with its own entry fee.

COPYRIGHTS AND USAGE

1. Ownership: By submitting your film, you affirm that you are the rightful owner of all intellectual property associated with the project or have secured the necessary rights and permissions.

2. Usage Rights: By submitting, you grant the festival the right to use excerpts, stills, and promotional materials for marketing and publicity purposes, including on social media, websites, and press releases.

3. Liability: The filmmaker assumes all responsibility for any copyright infringements or legal disputes related to their film.

SELECTION PROCESS

1. Jury Decisions: All selections are made by the festival jury, and their decisions are final.

2. Notification: Selected films will be notified via email and provided with official laurels for promotional use.

3. Screening Requirements: If selected, filmmakers must provide a downloadable version of their film in high-definition digital format for promotional purposes and/or the annual in-person screening.

AWARDS AND PRIZES

1. Eligibility for Awards: Only films submitted through FilmFreeway and meeting all eligibility criteria are considered for awards.

2. Cash Prizes: Cash awards will be disbursed within 30 days after the annual in-person screening.

DISCLAIMERS

1. Event Changes: The festival reserves the right to change the event format, including converting the in-person screening to an online event, as necessary.

2. Cancellations: Submission fees are non-refundable, even in the event of cancellation, except where prohibited by law.