See the world through the Universal Lens—where every story, every voice, and every perspective matters.

Get ready to showcase your talent on a global stage at the 2024 Universal Lens Film Festival, brought to you by Blended City, a New York based 501(c)(3). This festival isn't just another event—it's a celebration of underrepresented voices and untold stories from across the United States and around the world.

We showcase exceptional short films up to 25 minutes long, each offering a fresh perspective and inviting audiences to dive deep into cultures, emotions, and narratives often overlooked by mainstream cinema. Selected films will have the opportunity to be screened online, reaching audiences far and wide, and 10 lucky filmmakers will see their work showcased in person at our in person event.

This festival is about more than just screenings. It's about celebrating diversity in all its forms. From the stories on screen to the filmmakers behind them, at the Universal Lens Film Festival, diversity isn't just a buzzword—it's our foundation. We're committed to uplifting the underrepresented, amplifying their stories, and providing a stage for their artistic brilliance to shine.

As a filmmaker, participating in the Universal Lens Film Festival isn't just about showcasing your work—it's about making a statement for inclusivity and representation in the film industry. With networking opportunities, an awards ceremony, and a chance to connect with fellow creatives, it's an event you won't want to miss. Plus, stay tuned for an exciting announcements about raffles, and a cash prize for the Best Film winner!

Awards & Prizes

1. Cash Prize to Best Film Winner TBA at a later date.

2. Award ceremony of the categories below:
- Best Film
- Best Cinematography
- Best Actor
- Best Screenplay
- Best Director
- Audience Choice

3. Raffles!

4. Winning Filmmakers will have the opportunity to speak with representatives from talent agencies and managers.

5. Winning films are also announced by social media and a press release.

Rules & Eligibility

1. Entries MUST BE 25 MINUTES OR LESS.

2. Submissions in a language other than English must be subtitled.

3. No more than 2 entries are allowed per filmmaker.

4. Online screeners are mandatory. If you choose not to upload your project to FilmFreeway’s site, please provide an online link to your submission, and be sure to include the password in an email correspondence sent directly to the Universal Lens Film Festival.

5. Universal Lens Film Festival does not download submissions or accept Dropbox submissions. Please only send links to your media hosted on 3rd party servers such as Vimeo or YouTube.

6. Written comments describing entries are beneficial.

7. DVD entries will not be accepted nor returned.

8. Universal Lens Film Festival may request a downloadable copy (.MOV, MP4, or other formats) to use for exhibition, and Filmmaker agrees to comply.

9. By submitting a film, filmmaker is agreeing to have film screened in film festival, if selected.

10. There is no restriction on premiere status or completion date.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • I love this Film Festival! Thank you so much for the award and the support that you guys are giving to all the Film creators. Love you guys!

    February 2024
  • Erik Ta

    Wasn’t able to attend for our doc ‘Confluence’ but there was great social media presence and the event seemed well organized!

    February 2024
  • Jason X. Moua

    This was my first in person film festival and the debut of my first short film. Nick, Ashley, and the whole Blended City team were so generous with their time and communication with coordinating the whole event. I actually ended up winning Best Screenplay for my short film BK Rats and thoroughly enjoyed the community that has been build around this film festival that not only highlights the work of underrepresented artists but cultivates a stepping stone for the future of up an coming filmmakers.

    January 2023