Vertical Shorts Festival is the first international film festival dedicated exclusively to vertical filmmaking (9:16 aspect ratio) a bold and modern format reshaping how stories are told and experienced. We celebrate creators who embrace the mobile-first world and use vertical video not as a constraint, but as a canvas for innovation.

Whether it’s a gripping drama, a supernatural thriller, a heartfelt romance, or a daring fantasy, we’re looking for bold voices and fresh perspectives across genres, as long as they’re vertical.

Our mission is to spotlight emerging and established filmmakers who are pushing visual storytelling forward. We welcome smartphone filmmakers, experimental creators, and anyone exploring this unique format with purpose, passion, and cinematic craft.

Join us and be part of a new movement in cinema, where your vertical vision takes center stage.

Awards & Prizes

Winners will be honored with our custom-designed Award of Excellence Plaques, combining modern design and symbolic recognition for artistic merit. Awards are handed in person during our Live Ceremony Awards or shipped anywhere in US.

In addition to plaques, laurels will be awarded to all selected and winning entries. Select films will also receive special features on our website and VertiView app, where audiences can discover and vote for their favorites.

Rules & Terms

Rules & Terms – Vertical Shorts Film Festival

Format Requirement
All submissions must be created in a vertical format (aspect ratio 9:16). Films not adhering to this format will not be considered.

Length Requirements
Micro Shorts: Maximum runtime of 3 minute

Material Requirements:
A high def poster (9:16 preferably), a trailer (at least 30 seconds), a video to be featured on our voting app (the first few minutes of the project up to a whole project), BTS and still photos (optional).

Episodic: Submit as many episodes as you like edited in one video; please note if there are more episodes that aren't included in your submission

All genres must fall within their respective category guidelines.

Submission Guidelines

Films must be submitted via FilmFreeway with an accessible screener link.

Non-English films must include English subtitles.

Filmmakers must have all necessary rights and permissions for submitted content.

We do not require premiere status, but previously distributed works may be considered case-by-case.

Rights & Usage
By submitting to the Vertical Shorts Film Festival, filmmakers grant the festival the rights to stream, upload, use, and share all submitted materials on our official platforms including (but not limited to) our website, mobile app, and social media channels for promotional and screening purposes. This includes films, episodes, trailers, stills, images, and film excerpts.
Submissions may also be used for public voting, featured playlists, and promotional campaigns. The submitter affirms they own the rights or have permission to submit the film and associated media.

Selection Process
All submissions are reviewed by a panel of industry professionals and festival curators. Entry does not guarantee selection. Entry fees are non-refundable.

Notification
Selected filmmakers will be notified via email and/or through FilmFreeway.
Official selections will receive laurels. Category winners will receive an Award of Excellence Plaque and may be featured in special spotlight screenings.

Eligibility
Open to all filmmakers worldwide.

Other Terms
By submitting, you agree to all festival terms and certify that your work is original and does not infringe on the rights of others.

*note: If your project is eligible for distribution, please mention it in your cover letter. We’d be happy to help connect you with platforms that may be interested in your work.

See our website for complete list of Terms and Conditions.
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  • adam knott

    A festival that is very passionate about its filmmakers and in promoting and developing this new vertical format in cinema. An amazing experience and I felt very honored to be a part of this very supportive and creative environment.

    December 2025
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  • LEONIDAS STANESCU


    The inaugural year of the Vertical Shorts Festival proved to be a remarkably good experience, particularly when acknowledging the ambition required to launch a new event. The organizers deserve genuine credit for the smooth execution and overall positive atmosphere.

    While I personally hold a more traditional view regarding aspect ratios and screen formats, I fully recognize the current shifts in filmmaking and the absolute necessity of creating platforms for the new, "vertical generations." This festival successfully provides a vital showcase where creators utilizing these contemporary dimensions can effectively display their unique visions.

    It is refreshing to see an event so keenly focused on the future of media consumption. Congratulations to the entire team on a successful debut.

    September 2025
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