We welcome independent professional and amateur filmmakers to showcase their work at historic Shirley Meeting House, a gathering place that opened its doors to the people in Shirley in 1773 and continues to be a venue of artistic expression and collaboration.

Awards & Prizes

Awards & Judging

The Shirley Film Festival celebrates short films that inspire, entertain, and connect with audiences through the art of storytelling.

All Official Selections will be eligible for the following awards.

Jury Award – Best Short Film

Audience Choice Award

Spirit of Shirley Award

Rules & Terms

Film Length: We are accepting submissions of all lengths.

Originality: Only submit films for which you have the rights and permissions, including music and any copyrighted materials.

Content Guidelines: No sexually explicit content. No propaganda. We are looking for enriching and compelling content on any other subject matter.

Format: Films must be submitted digitally and made available for download or DVD.

Submission Materials: Provide all required submission materials, which may include a synopsis, filmmaker’s biography, and high-resolution promotional stills.

Subtitles: If your film is in a language other than English, ensure that it has English subtitles or captions.
7 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Pierre GAFFIÉ

    The Shirley film festival is very well organised on a human-scale, meaning that we've received all the updates and feedbacks required. The team seems very well forged and dedicated to cinema. When you receive some specific words about your film (here "The forest of souls") it shows that the festival itself has a soul... Plus, their visuals and logo and quite elegant. Looking forward to submit my work again next year. Pierre Gaffié

    November 2025
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  • Sue Farina

    The Shirley Film Fest is a gem. I was pleased to have my film selected for screening, and then truly honored when I saw the quality of the other films I watched during the Fest and the other films on the schedule that I missed. Everything about the Fest was well organized and the hospitality was the best. I encourage filmmakers to submit to the Shirley Film Fest!

    November 2025
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  • Rachael Sokolowski

    A wonderful film festival in an intimate and historic location. I was so happy to have my documentary Take Heart’ be a part of the 2025 film fest. Can’t wait for next year!

    November 2025
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  • Kat Kvas

    So glad my film screened here and everyone was so kind and responsive! Thank you Shirley film fest!

    November 2025
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  • Elizabeth Kapsa

    Although I could not attend the festival in person, I greatly appreciate the warm and kind reception my film received. The organization was excellent, and the communication with the organizers was extremely pleasant and professional. I am delighted that the audience responded so positively to my film and that it sparked emotion and reflection. I am grateful for creating a space where independent filmmakers can share their stories and be truly heard.

    November 2025
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