SATISFIED EYE International Film Festival

"The festival was a revelation. The scope and quality of films, workshops and networking opportunities were truly splendid. It's busy, it's exciting, it's thrilling. Organised to a fine detail, the SEIFF is a filmmaker's dream. One of the best in the UK."
Dave Gilbank, Polterheist

Now in its fifth season, the SATISFIED EYE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL is a truly global event and the pre-eminent international film festival in Surrey, UK - just a stone’s throw from the country’s film capital in London - and marks itself as a true celebration of independent film, bringing together filmmakers, film shakers and the movie-going public in a warm, convivial and rewarding environment.

The festival, which ranked in the top 100 festivals globally after only its first season, has screened hundreds of films from over 90 countries, world, European and UK premieres, Oscar nominees and winners and welcomes filmmakers, actors, writers, producers, production crew and other industry creatives from around the world.

The festival takes place within the plush surroundings of the Picturehouse Cinema on the dedicated festival floor and is presented in association with the Epsom & Ewell Times who provide press coverage throughout.

FILMMAKERS SHOULD ONLY ENTER A SINGLE CATEGORY DURING SUBMISSION. See Frequently Asked Question below for full information.

MISSION 



With a focus on increasing opportunity for independent filmmakers, SEIFF looks to promote and exhibit exceptional work by creatives from around the globe and help them make valuable connections - while increasing the audience for their work. 



SEIFF presents a diverse programme of high quality independent feature films, animation, documentaries and short films from all around the world. 



SEIFF looks to make important discoveries of upcoming directors, actors, writers and all those involved in the filmmaking process, ensuring it’s a renowned and valued platform for both undiscovered talent and respected industry peers alike.

With a large number of exceptional films being made that struggle to gain attention but deserve to be seen by critics, agents, peers and film lovers, SEIFF aims to bring to the festival the best and most creative films.

The festival includes networking, Q&As, screenings, social events and special guests. 

Our closing annual red carpet awards ceremony, gives recognition to the best talent in front of and behind the camera with a gala ceremony open to filmmakers and the public.

WOMEN DIRECTORS

SEIFF is particularly keen to promote the work of women filmmakers and includes a special award for women directors (the Emily Davison Award) which commemorates the historical impact of local female heroes. Women directors in all film categories are eligible.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. My film fits more than one submission category. Should I enter it in both?
A. FILMMAKERS SHOULD ONLY ENTER A SINGLE CATEGORY DURING SUBMISSION. If a film is eligible for more than one category (eg an animated short with LGBTQ+ themes) it should be entered into the category which the filmmaker feels best reflects the film. The film will still be considered in all other categories for which it is eligible. SEIFF wants YOU to succeed so for films that fit into more than one category, SEIFF will place films into those categories it feels most benefit the filmmaker in terms of programming and awards.

Q. Does the category I submit my film into impact my chance of winning awards?
A. Submission categories have no bearing on awards and every film is considered on individual merit. A film submitted by a student into the ‘Documentary Short’ category can still win the award for Best Director and Best Student Film as well as Best Documentary Short. Films are eligible for any qualifying awards, regardless of which category they are placed in.

Q. Do you provide feedback?
A. Due to the number of submissions received we are unable to provide individual feedback. Official selections and award winners at the festival do receive selected feedback and as an IMDB listed festival award-winners are reviewed on IMDB by our team.

Q. How long does my film have to be to qualify as a short?
A. SEIFF uses the same guidelines as given by the Academy Awards, consequently shorts are considered 40 minutes and under, and features anything 41 minutes or longer.