The Teleos Film Festival is an unabashed celebration of classical storytelling, championing the timeless values of freedom, tradition, and the extraordinary triumphs of humanity and the human spirit. Set against the rich cultural backdrop of North Carolina, Teleos unites filmmakers, thought leaders, and passionate audiences in a shared love for story and cinema.

Through a thoughtfully curated selection of films, Teleos amplifies voices that explore themes of individuality, community, faith, freedom, and the pursuit of truth. Beyond screenings, the festival offers engaging panel discussions, interactive workshops, and cultural events designed to foster dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration among creators and attendees.

Whether you're a filmmaker eager to share your vision, an advocate for timeless values, or a lover of meaningful cinema, the Teleos Film Festival promises a dynamic and enriching experience. Together, we honor the stories and storytellers shaping the hearts and minds of future generations.

What are we looking for?

Above all, we seek films rooted in strong storytelling—marked by clear narrative structures, universal themes, and compelling characters—that embrace the unique craft of the motion picture. Extra consideration will be given to works that explore themes of morality, traditional values, patriotism, self-reliance, heroism, sacrifice, spirituality, redemption, and innovation/entrepreneurship... and of course comedies and classic genre films are encouraged!

At the Teleos Film Festival, we believe in the power of storytelling to bridge divides, celebrate diversity, and highlight unique perspectives. We welcome submissions from filmmakers and writers of all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, recognizing that great stories come from a variety of voices and unite us all. Whether your work reflects your heritage, personal journey, or distinct worldview, we are excited to provide a platform where these narratives can inspire and connect with audiences. Your story matters, and we look forward to showcasing the creativity and new talent that will enrich the world of cinema.

Awards & Prizes

::: The Cecil B. DeMille Epic Achievement Award
Grand, sweeping narratives or historical films that embody the timeless values of morality and human resilience.

::: The Frank Capra Award for Inspirational Storytelling
Uplifting films that celebrate community, family, and the triumph of good over evil, reflecting Capra’s optimistic worldview.

::: The John Ford Award for Cinematic Excellence
Films with stunning visuals, deep respect for tradition, and narratives that reflect the pioneer spirit and moral dilemmas.

::: The Clint Eastwood Award for Individualism and Self-Reliance
Films that showcase strong, independent characters overcoming challenges through resilience and personal responsibility.

::: The Mel Gibson Award for Faith and Heroism
Stories that explore themes of sacrifice, redemption, and faith with emotional and moral depth.

::: The Michael Pack Award for Excellence in Biography and History
Documentaries and narratives that showcase extraordinary storytelling through biographical or historical narratives, capturing the depth and complexity of an individual's life or a historical event.

::: The Dinesh D’Souza Award for Provocative Documentaries
Non-fiction films that challenge conventional thinking and inspire dialogue on freedom, responsibility, and governance.

::: The Terrence Malick Award for Spiritual Reflection
Films that explore existential themes, spirituality, and the relationship between humanity and the divine.

::: The Taylor Sheridan Award for Rural Grit and Justice
Films that shine a light on rural communities, individual strength, and the fight for justice against adversity.

::: The John Milius Award for Bold Screenwriting
Screenplays that exemplify courage, individuality, and powerful storytelling. This award celebrates writers who craft compelling narratives that embrace themes of heroism, freedom, and moral clarity.

Rules & Terms

TELEOS FILM FESTIVAL SUBMISSION PROCESS

Submission Screening Format:
- The Teleos Film Festival only accepts online screeners submitted through the designated platform.
- Completed Submissions Must Include:
- Payment of submission fees.
- All required fields completed on the submission platform.
- The following materials:
A brief synopsis (in English).
Two high-resolution stills from the film.
Full cast and credits list.
An official film poster (digital).

PAYMENTS
- Submission fees must be paid online through the designated submission platform. The festival does not accept mailed payments.
- No refunds will be issued under any circumstances, including event cancellations caused by unforeseen global or local events.
- The Teleos Film Festival does not waive submission fees to maintain the integrity of the competition.

FILM REQUIREMENTS
Genres: The Teleos Film Festival accepts films of all genres, provided they align with the festival’s emphasis on storytelling and thematic exploration (e.g., individuality, freedom, morality).
Length:
Feature Films: Must run over 40 minutes.
Short Films: Must run 40 minutes or less.
Eligibility:
Films must include English subtitles if the primary language is not English.
Prior Screenings: Films that have been screened at other festivals are eligible but preference may be given to premieres.

SCREENPLAY REQUIREMENTS
Screenplays of all genres are accepted.
Writers may submit multiple screenplays, but only one per writer can be selected.
All screenplays must be submitted in standard professional formats.
Artwork is not required for screenplay submissions.

OFFICIAL SELECTIONS (FILMS & SCREENPLAYS)
Official Selections must adhere to all festival rules, regulations, and deadlines.
Format for Selected Films:
All Official Selections must provide a digital copy (DCP or ProRes format).
Submission must include the title, director(s)’ name, runtime (TRT), contact information, and genre.
Selected filmmakers are encouraged to bring a backup copy of their film for screening.
Shipping costs for submitted materials are the responsibility of the filmmaker.

NORTH CAROLINA STUDENT COMPETITION
Open to North Carolina K-12, undergraduate, and graduate students enrolled in accredited institutions.
Submissions must include a letter of reference from a faculty member.
Students may submit multiple entries but only one project per student may be selected.
Selected student films must have an in-person representative at the festival.

PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Filmmakers and writers are encouraged to bring promotional materials, such as:
Film posters mounted on foam/cork boards with accompanying easels.
Business cards or postcards for networking purposes.
Official Selections must prominently feature the festival’s laurel in their promotional materials.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The Teleos Film Festival is granted the right to use excerpts from submitted films for promotional purposes.
By submitting a film or screenplay, entrants warrant that they are authorized to commit the project for exhibition and accept all rules and regulations.
The entrant shall indemnify the Teleos Film Festival from any claims related to copyright, trademark, or publicity issues arising from their submission.
All decisions by the festival’s selection committee are final.

SUBMISSION RELEASE AGREEMENT

By submitting to the Teleos Film Festival, entrants agree to the following:

I have read, understood, and complied with all eligibility and submission requirements.
All information provided is authentic and accurate.
I release the Teleos Film Festival from claims related to misappropriation, copyright infringement, or any other liabilities arising from my submission.
I agree that no refunds will be issued under any circumstances.
I understand that selection does not guarantee a monetary prize or other compensation beyond inclusion in the festival.