The Reel Do Over is an exciting week-long cultural event based in Chelsea, MA that includes screenings of short films produced by local and regional filmmakers, workshops, panel discussions and networking/casual mixers for the community. Devra Sari Zabot (based in Chelsea) and K. Elisa Garcia (Chelsea native, based in Everett) are thrilled to partner on The Reel Do Over and blend their combined thirty years of professional industry experience together to bring the magic of moviemaking to Chelsea.

The Reel Do Over event will celebrate movie making from the office to set with hands-on cinematography/directing workshop, a session on DEI, a panel on sustainability and a conversation around new roles in film production.

As two filmmakers committed to creating opportunities, we believe in the power of film to empower and uplift the individual and a community. If this event is successful, we plan on making The Reel Do Over an annual event and hope to see showcase films by more and more locally based filmmakers.

Awards & Prizes

NA

Rules & Terms

WE ARE ONLY REVIEWING SHORT FILMS FROM FILMMAKERS BASED IN MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, NEW HAMPSHIRE AND CONNECTICUT. FILMAKERS MUST BE LOCATED IN ONE OF THOSE STATES; however, the film could have been filmed anywhere.

We can only accept online submission.

The Reel Do Over organizers will choose the films to be screened at this year's festival. All filmmakers must be New England based (currently.) Our goal is to invite filmmakers to the Q&A panels; however we cannot cover flights or lodging.

Not all entries will be selected. If your work is selected, you will be notified no later than April 10th to send the film as a .mov or .mp4 high resolution file.

Guidelines:
Runtime: 5 - 20 minutes
Must have been produced, directed or written by (one of those three) a filmmaker who is based in New England. However, the film doesn’t need to have been filmed here.
Filming date post 2025.
We can only accept digital formats.
Any language; must have English language subtitles available.
Rating: In the PG-13 range.
Immediate disqualification for any films that portray glorified violence and racism, homophobia, sexism and gender based discrimination.

NOTE: All languages are accepted; please have English subtitles available.

3 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Rachel Thomas-Medwid

    This filmmaker-focused event truly delivered on its mission to uplift local voices and build community in Chelsea, MA. Thank you for screening both Dissection Day and Fenwick and for facilitating the “Everything You Wanted to Know About Film Festivals” panel in partnership with WIFVNE. What an insightful and productive conversation! A fantastic experience all around...I'm looking forward to next year and to seeing this festival continue to grow!

    May 2026
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    It was wonderful for Women in Film & Video New England to co-sponsor and moderate the Fillm Forum. We also loved being able to showcase two of your films!

  • Miriam Olken

    I had a wonderful time at The Reel Do Over, for their first time as a film festival, they did not disappoint. I made a lot of great contacts at the event and the communication for screening my film was great. Can't wait to go again next year, great first year!

    April 2026
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you Miriam!! And we hope to be screening your next short??

  • Henry Dane

    I had a great time at The Reel Do Over festival, as did my film's cast and crew. I was especially impressed with the group's organization and responsiveness. They made it a wonderful, welcoming night to remember. Whether you're a filmmaker or a film lover, don't miss this fest in 2027!

    April 2026
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you Henry. It is so nice to be appreciated. We worked very hard to make sure our filmmakers and guests felt welcomed and enjoyed their time at the festival.