FILM SUBMISSION PROCEDURE
※ Artists are required to complete an application form via FilmFreeway.
The festival accepts online submission links only for preview purposes (Vimeo, YouTube, etc.). Links may be private or public.
※ All submitted films must be fully completed. Works in progress will not be considered.
※ Films must have been completed within 18 months of the submission deadline. Works completed prior to this window will not be considered.
※ Productions must be independently produced, with the filmmaker retaining complete editorial control and copyright.
※ Submission of an entry constitutes acceptance of all rules and regulations, a guarantee that a screening copy in the specified format will be made available for the dates of the event, and authorization to publicly exhibit the work at San Diego Underground Film Festival.
※ If a screening copy is to be provided by a distributor or agent, the entry must be submitted by that distributor or agent, along with any applicable criteria or conditions.
※ Submission grants San Diego Underground Film Festival and its parent company, San Diego Underground Arts, the right to use materials and images related to the project for marketing purposes.
FILE TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
※ Accepted screening formats: Apple ProRes HQ422, H.264 (AVC), or H.265 (HEVC).
※ DCP is accepted for feature films only.
※ 5.1 surround sound mixes will not be accepted.
※ Films with dialogue in a language other than English must include English subtitles.
※ San Diego Underground Film Festival reserves the right to refuse a screening copy of poor technical quality that may be detrimental to the screening experience.
※ San Diego Underground Film Festival reserves the right to revoke selection status if a file is received after the stated deadline.
FILM/FILE TRANSPORTATION
※ The party responsible for sending film materials bears the cost of transporting selected films. The festival incurs the cost of the films return. If sent via mail, the sender must provide the festival with necessary information regarding its return (date needed by/address/phone number).
※ International parcels should be marked ‘For Cultural Purposes Only/No Commercial Value'.
※ The copy will be returned within three weeks after festival completion.
SCREENING / ARTIST FEES & COMPETITION
San Diego Underground Film Festival is committed to the fair payment of artists. The following stipulations apply per competition categories:
※ In Competition
• Eligible for artist fees.
• Artist fees are determined by premiere status at the time of selection. Films screening as a West Coast, US, North American, or World Premiere are eligible for an elevated artist fee.
• Premiere status must be verifiable and declared at the time of acceptance. Films with prior local or online/streaming releases do not qualify for premiere-tier fees.
※ Not In Competition
• Not eligible for artist fees.
• Projects supported by SDUFF are not eligible for in-competition status or artist fees.
Please note:
• The festival does not promise transportation or lodging accommodations at this time.
• Festival dates are subject to change due to availability of venue rentals.
