The Ethereal Film Festival is a cinematic experience focused on storytelling that expands consciousness, explores cultural truth, and invites emotional depth. We highlight films that aren’t just entertaining — they’re transformative. We include a festival structure designed to make every filmmaker and guest feel part of something deeper.

From independent documentaries to visionary fiction, we showcase works that challenge norms, spark dialogue, and reflect the evolving human spirit. The festival includes screenings, panel discussions, live workshops, and networking experiences designed to connect filmmakers, thought leaders, and audiences around meaningful content.

Join us this September as we showcase bold, intentional work from around Los Angeles/Baltimore — spotlighting stories that explore identity, ancestry, evolution, and the human experience.

Events will include screenings of short-film submissions, filmmaker Q&As, industry/filmmaker workshops, networking opportunities, and an awards presentation honoring outstanding work in cinematic craft and emotional impact.

Films will be selected based on their originality, emotional impact, and cultural or spiritual relevance. We’re looking for work that feels honest, thought-provoking, and intentional. All submissions will be reviewed by our festival team and jury with care. Please check the full submission guidelines for details on eligibility.

*We'll have a representative from Disney who will be leading a workshop!

The Ethereal Award (Audience Favorite) *Cash Prize*

Chosen by the audience, this award honors the film that resonated most deeply — emotionally, spiritually, or creatively.
It represents the soul of the festival: connection, impact, and the power of storytelling to move us all.

1. Film Length
• This year, we are currently accepting short films only. All submissions must be 20 minutes or less, including credits.

2. Genres & Formats
• All genres are welcome (narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, hybrid).
• English subtitles are required for non-English dialogue.

3. Submission Format
• All films must be submitted digitally via FilmFreeway for preview.
• Final selections will be requested in high-resolution format for screening (details provided upon acceptance).

4. Completion Date
• Films must have been completed after January 1, 2020.

5. Premiere Status
• Premiere status is not required, but priority may be given to films that haven’t screened extensively in Los Angeles or online.

6. Rights & Permissions
• By submitting, you confirm that you hold all necessary rights to your film, including music, images, and footage.
• The festival is not liable for any copyright infringement.

7. Exhibition Rights
• Selected films grant The Ethereal Film Festival the right to screen the film during the event and use promotional stills/clips for marketing purposes.

8. Submission Fees
• Submission fees are non-refundable, regardless of selection status.

9. Notification
• Selected filmmakers will be notified by August 1st via email and FilmFreeway.

10. Attendance
• In-person attendance is encouraged but not required. Remote participation in Q&A may be offered if applicable.