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

The Universal Lens Film Festival, presented by Blended City, a New York–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is more than just another festival. 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 fresh perspectives and inviting audiences to dive deep into cultures, emotions, and narratives often overlooked by mainstream cinema. Selected films will screen both online (reaching audiences globally) and in person at our New York City showcase.

🎥 Categories:
Narrative (Any Genre)

Documentary

Foreign

New Media (Animation, Experimental, Music Video, Web Series)

Local Lens: NYC - spotlighting short films created in New York City

Our Mission:
Blended City exists to support artists in film, theatre, and music, especially those from underserved and underrepresented communities. The Universal Lens Film Festival is built on our belief that diversity isn’t just a buzzword - it’s our foundation. From the stories on screen to the filmmakers behind them, our mission is to amplify unheard voices, uplift the underrepresented, and create space for artistic brilliance to shine.

Accessibility:
We’re committed to making this festival accessible:

Free submissions during Early Bird (Sept 15 – Oct 1, 2025)

Discounted rates for students and FilmFreeway Gold members

Special pricing for NYC filmmakers in our Local Lens category

Every dollar from submissions and add-ons goes directly back into supporting artists and sustaining Blended City’s programs in film, theatre, and music.

Why Submit?

Participating in Universal Lens isn’t just about showcasing your work it’s about being part of a creative community that values inclusivity and representation. In addition to screenings, we’ll host panels, filmmaker interviews, and networking events, giving artists the opportunity to share ideas, build connections, and spark future collaborations.

Awards & Prizes

Awards & Prizes

- Best Film
- Best Cinematography
- Best Actor
- Best Screenplay
- Best Director
- Audience Choice

Rules & Terms

Rules & Terms

Eligibility:

Submissions are open to all filmmakers worldwide.

Only short films up to 25 minutes in length (including credits) are eligible.

Films may have been completed at any time.

Films not in English must include English subtitles.

Categories:

Narrative (Any Genre)

Documentary

Foreign (Narrative or Documentary produced outside the U.S.)

New Media (Animation, Experimental, Music Video, Web Series)

Local Lens: NYC (shorts created in New York City)

Submission Requirements:

All submissions must be made via FilmFreeway.

Films must be submitted as an online screener (no physical media accepted).

Multiple entries are allowed, but each must be submitted separately with its own entry fee.

Student submissions must include a valid student ID or proof of enrollment.

Selection & Exhibition:

Selected films will be screened at the Universal Lens Film Festival in March 2026 (both online and in-person in New York City).

Selection does not guarantee inclusion in both formats; programming decisions are at the discretion of the festival.

The festival reserves the right to program films into a category different from the one submitted, if more appropriate.

Selected filmmakers agree to provide an exhibition-quality digital file (format details will be provided upon selection).

Panels & Events:

In addition to screenings, the festival will host panels, interviews, and networking events. Selected filmmakers may be invited to participate.

Promotional Use:

By submitting, filmmakers grant Blended City permission to use trailer clips, stills, and promotional materials for marketing and publicity purposes.

All rights remain with the filmmaker.

Rights & Clearances:

The filmmaker must own or have secured all rights (including music, images, and archival footage).

The festival is not responsible for any copyright or intellectual property disputes.

Fees & Refunds:

Submission fees are non-refundable.

Discounts apply for students and FilmFreeway Gold members.

A free submission period is offered during Early Bird (Sept 15 – Oct 1, 2025).

Awards & Recognition:

Selected films may receive recognition through program highlights, panels, interviews, and promotional features.

Award Winners will receive award.

All selected films will be eligible for consideration in festival publicity and marketing spotlights.

General Terms:

The festival reserves the right to make adjustments to programming, events, or categories as needed.

Participation in the festival implies acceptance of these Rules & Terms.
7 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Blake Cortes

    It was a great festival. I definitely need to come out next year

    November 2024
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  • Alexis Karl

    Absolutely lovely festival! Great quality of films were screened, and the directors were really fantastic. They did a lot of promotion, had great networking, and created a very welcoming atmosphere. Lovely independent NYC fest!

    November 2024
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  • Kacie Newport

    Thanks so much for including our film Ardor in the festival. Communication was great and we really enjoyed our experience.

    November 2024
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  • DANIELE PIGNATELLI

    thank you so much for selection our "the other land" in your amazing festival!

    November 2024
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  • Maria Alejandra Hernandez

    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
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