The 2025 Syracuse International Film Festival eagerly anticipates its triumphant return IN PERSON, scheduled for September 2025. With an array of new events and showcases currently in development throughout the year, this year's festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of cinema.

Now in its 22nd year, the Festival continues its tradition of presenting captivating films from around the globe through both invitationals and juried competitions. We are thrilled to once again showcase some of the finest films and filmmakers from across the world, the nation, and right here in the vibrant state of New York!

Filmmakers from all corners of the globe are invited to submit their works for consideration. Eligible films may cover any subject, span any length, and explore any genre, including Animation, Horror, Made in NY Films, Feature Narrative, Feature Documentary, Social Justice, and more! Our esteemed panel of judges, comprised of professional filmmakers, film critics, and writers, will meticulously evaluate each submission to curate a diverse and compelling lineup.

The Syracuse International Film Festival is thrilled to announce new categories for 2025! In addition to our existing selections, we are now accepting submissions for:

💨 Indigenous Cinema Showcase
🪃 OZ Reimagined - 2025
✝️ Christian Based Films
🤣 Comedy
💥 Action
🔪 Thriller
💘 Romance
🎄 Christmas
⚔️ War
👻 Supernatural
Prison Reform
Environmental
Human Trafficking
Underground Railroad

Join us as we celebrate the magic of cinema and the boundless creativity of filmmakers worldwide at the 2024 Syracuse International Film Festival!

Awards & Prizes

We are pleased to announce that all films accepted for screening will be provided with Festival laurels, acknowledging their participation in our prestigious event. Furthermore, pending the availability of funds, monetary prizes will be awarded to the top films selected by our esteemed jury. These prizes aim to recognize exceptional talent and dedication within the filmmaking community.

In addition to monetary rewards, winners will also receive non-monetary laurels, symbolizing their achievement and excellence in their respective categories. To further support their creative journey, all winners will be granted an exclusive one-year subscription to Filmmakers Academy, a comprehensive platform valued at $449. This subscription offers access to a wealth of resources, including tutorials, masterclasses, and industry insights, empowering filmmakers to hone their craft and advance their careers.

We believe in celebrating and nurturing talent within the film industry, and these rewards reflect our commitment to supporting filmmakers in their artistic endeavors.

Rules & Terms

Film Festival Rules and Terms

By submitting, you agree to be bound by these Rules and Terms. Submission deadlines are postmark deadlines, and no waivers from submission fees are granted. The Syracuse International Film Festival (SIFF) reserves the right to refuse entries or reject any film or screenplay deemed offensive or inappropriate in its sole discretion. SIFF may amend these Rules and Terms without advance notice, with any amendment becoming effective immediately. It is your responsibility to periodically check for updates.

Eligibility: The Festival is open to any film completed after January 1, 2021.
Submission Process: Films may only be submitted through FilmFreeway.
Language Requirements: Films in non-English languages must have EMBEDDED (baked-in) English subtitles. (We will need a DCP or Bluray to be Screened for Documentaries & Feature Films.)

Authorization and Indemnification: The submitter warrants authorization to commit the film for screening and agrees to indemnify and hold harmless SIFF from any claims involving copyright, trademark, credits, publicity, or other reasons.

Submission Requirements: SIFF will not refund fees if the filmmaker fails to submit the film in the correct category. Submissions without the correct fees or proper submission media may be deemed ineligible at SIFF's discretion. The Festival does not cover filmmaker expenses.

Submission Materials: Submitters must provide an official trailer, poster and/or stills, synopsis, and a link to the film. SIFF reserves the right to re-assign films to the appropriate category.

Monetary Awards: Monetary awards are provided by check or through PayPal. If not claimed within 30 days after notification, the winner forfeits the prize.

Screening Permission: Applicants agree that the film and/or trailer may be shown online for a limited time, not exceeding six months after the Festival's last day, through the SIFF website or other online platforms.

Legal Obligations: Entrants are responsible for obtaining necessary licenses, royalties, release forms, clearances, and permits. SIFF is not liable for any copyright, trademark, credits, or royalty infringement claims or for shipping-related damages.
Terms and Conditions Disclaimer:

Submission does not guarantee selection. Officially selected films receive a certificate and are listed on the SIFF website as an Official Selection. Official Selection status does not guarantee screening at the Festival but allows eligibility for nominations and use of the Festival logo on promotional materials.

All filmmakers grant permission for SIFF to screen the film at its discretion and charge admission fees. Filmmakers do not receive Box-office proceeds. Filmmakers release SIFF from liability for damages or destruction of entered films, theft, copyright violations, piracy, or technical difficulties during screenings. SIFF reserves the right to make changes to the program dates, times, and screenings.

For additional information, visit www.SyrFilmFest.com.