The Smalls Film Festival is an annual showcase of the very best short films from around the world. Returning to London for its 18th edition this September, the festival will bring seven extraordinary feature-length programmes to the big screen: Animation, Change, Comedy, Documentary, Drama, Music Video and Student Film.

As the roots of The Smalls, an international community of creatives, The Smalls Film Festival has been championing independent filmmaking and creative people since 2006. Expect an incredible mix of hand-picked talent, global award winners, artistic pioneers - and the purely unmissable.

From emerging voices to established professionals, The Smalls Film Festival is looking for unmissable projects that share our love for short film and video. Cash prizes will be awarded to jury-selected winners in each category. The Smalls wants to hear from you!

You can find all information on submission deadlines and fees below.

Early Bird Deadline: 20th January - 19th February 2025 | Fee: £15
Regular Deadline: 20th February - 14th May 2025 | Fee: £25
Late Deadline: 15th May - 11th June 2025 | Fee: £30

Student Category Submissions | Fee: £10

Awards & Prizes

The winner of each category will receive a cash prize.

Rules & Terms

1. Who can enter The Smalls Film Festival?

Anyone can submit their film. Any film submitted must be 25 minutes or under in length.

2. Are there any premiere restrictions for entry?

There are no premiere restrictions to submit your film to The Smalls Film Festival. Your film may have previously been publicly screened, broadcast or otherwise made publicly available (including online) anywhere in the world.

3. Must I have all the rights and clearances for my film, as well as any material and music included in my film settled before I submit or can I do it afterward?

You need to have all rights and clearances BEFORE you submit your film.

4. Is there a tracking number, or how do I know if my submission has been completed and my film uploaded?

Once you have completed the submission form and made the payment, you will receive a payment confirmation email.

5. I submitted my film but haven't paid the submission fee. Will my film still be considered for the festival?

If you have submitted a film but have not paid the submission fee then your film will not be considered for the festival.

6. Are there any submission fee waivers or discounts?

Students submitting to the Student category may submit at the cost of £10.

7. Can I choose the award category that I want to submit my film to?

Yes. As you complete your submissions form, you will be asked to mark the category you wish to enter. You can only choose one category. Should we feel that your film is better suited for a different category, your film will be moved accordingly.