Welcome to the Short Film Festival 2026, an international celebration of bold, original, and visionary short filmmaking between UK and China. We invite creators from around the world to submit their work across a diverse range of categories — including Animation, AI, Alternative Medium, Documentary, Experimental, Student, and Miscellaneous.

This year’s festival places special focus on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in storytelling, and how it intersects with environmental sustainability — from its impact on creativity to its potential in addressing ecological challenges.

We are passionate about championing emerging filmmakers, experimental voices, and stories that push the boundaries of genre, form, and message. Whether you’re a student director, an independent animator, or an artist exploring new media, this is your stage.

All films must be under 40 minutes. You are welcome to submit your film to multiple categories if applicable.

Awards & Prizes

We believe in celebrating innovation, originality, and storytelling that resonates. Official selections will receive festival laurels, and standout entries will be awarded across the following categories:

Category Awards:
1) Best Animation Short
2) Best AI Short
3) Best Alternative Medium Short
4) Best Documentary Short
5) Best Experimental Short
6) Best Student Short
7) Best Miscellaneous Short
8) Special Award: AI & Environment Award

Rules & Terms

1. General Eligibility
1.1 All films must be 40 minutes or under in total runtime (including credits).
1.2 Submissions are open to filmmakers from all countries and backgrounds.
1.3 Films must have been completed after January 1, 2023.
1.4 You may submit your film to multiple categories, provided it meets the criteria for each.
1.5 Non-English films must include English subtitles.

2. Category-Specific Guidelines
2.1 Animation: Films must be created using traditional or digital animation methods. Projects using AI-generated visuals are not eligible for this category.
2.2 AI: Films must involve AI in their concept, creation, or production process. Preference will be given to innovative, responsible uses of AI.
2.3 AI & Environment Award: To qualify, your film must directly address the relationship between artificial intelligence and environmental sustainability.
2.4 Student: Open to current or recently graduated students. Proof of student status may be requested.

3. Deadlines
3.1 Registration Deadline: October 30, 2025
3.2 Final Submission Deadline: 31st January, 2025
3.3 Judging Period: Febuary 2026
3.4 Festival Dates: 1st March 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed)

4. Submission Guidelines
4.1 All submissions must be made via FilmFreeway.
4.2 Accepted formats include .mp4, .mov, and other common video file types.
4.3 Films should be submitted in HD (720p or higher).
4.4 Include trailers, posters, or stills if available for promotional use.

5. Rights & Permissions
5.1 You must own or have obtained rights to all content used in your film, including music, images, and footage.
5.2 By submitting, you grant the festival permission to screen your film and use short clips or stills (up to 30 seconds) for promotional purposes.

6. Disqualification & Refunds
6.1 We reserve the right to disqualify any submission that contains hate speech, extreme violence, or material that infringes on the rights of others.
6.2 Submission fees are non-refundable, regardless of selection status.

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