The Tucson Short Film Festival is a celebration of innovative storytelling, set against the striking desert landscapes of southern Arizona. Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Tucson’s unique blend of vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for filmmakers to showcase their artistry.

This festival highlights the best in short-form cinema, offering a platform where diverse voices and bold visions come to life. Tucson’s expansive horizons and creative energy inspire not only the films themselves but also the connections forged between filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences. At the Tucson Short Film Festival, each screening is an invitation to explore new perspectives in a setting as captivating as the stories told.

At the Tucson Short Film Festival, filmmakers and attendees can look forward to an intimate and engaging experience. Along with film screenings, there will be opportunities for casual networking, insightful Q&A sessions, and relaxed discussions with fellow creatives. Set in Tucson’s unique desert landscape, the festival provides a laid-back yet inspiring environment for filmmakers to connect, share ideas, and explore new creative possibilities.

Awards & Prizes

Best Short Film
Best Narrative Short Film
Best Documentary Short Film
Best Animated Short Film
Best Experimental Short Film
Best Horror Short Film
Best Student Film
Best Director
Best Cinematphotography
Best Editing
Best Screenplay
Audience Choice Award
Best Emerging Filmmaker

Rules & Terms

1.Film Duration
Submitted films must have a runtime of no more than 45 minutes, including credits.

2.Genres and Themes
We accept all genres and themes, including but not limited to narrative, documentary, animation, and experimental films. Creativity, storytelling, and artistic expression will be key judging criteria.

3.Production Date
All submissions must have been completed within the past three years (2022 or later).

4.Film Format
Films must be submitted in a high-definition digital format, such as MP4 or MOV, with a minimum resolution of 1080p.

5.Language and Subtitles
Films must be in English or include English subtitles if the film’s original language is not English. Films without English subtitles will not be considered.

6.Originality
All submitted films must be original works and must not infringe on any third-party rights, including but not limited to copyrights, trademarks, and patents. The submitter must hold all necessary rights or permissions to the work.

7.Eligibility
The festival is open to filmmakers of all nationalities and ages. Minors must provide written consent from a guardian to participate.

8.Screening Rights
By submitting a film, filmmakers grant the festival the right to screen the selected film during the festival. The festival also reserves the right to use excerpts, stills, and promotional materials from the film for marketing purposes.

9.Selection Criteria
All submitted films will be reviewed by the festival jury. Selection will be based on artistic merit, creativity, technical proficiency, and storytelling.

10.Copyright and Liability
The submitter must ensure the film does not involve any copyright disputes or legal issues. The festival will not be held liable for any legal claims related to the film, and the submitter will assume full responsibility for any such issues.

11.Withdrawal of Films
Once a film has been submitted and selected for screening, it cannot be withdrawn from the festival without special permission from the festival organizers.

12.Privacy and Data Protection
Personal information submitted as part of the entry process will only be used for festival-related communication and will not be shared for any commercial purposes without permission.