1. Eligibility
Submissions are open to filmmakers worldwide.
Films must align with the values of Films in the Forest, including environmental awareness, nature connection, cultural storytelling, social impact, or creative expression.
Eligible formats include short films, documentaries, experimental works, and animation.
Submissions are primarily limited to short films of 20 minutes or less, including credits. Films exceeding this duration may be considered at the discretion of the programming team.
Films may be in any language. English subtitles are required for non-English dialogue.
2. Submission Requirements
The submitter confirms they are authorised to submit the film and grant the permissions outlined in these Rules & Terms. Submission deadlines listed on FilmFreeway must be respected. Late submissions may not be considered.
Multiple entries are permitted, but each film requires a separate submission and fee (if applicable).
3. Selection Process
All films are reviewed by the Films in the Forest programming team.
Selection is at the sole discretion of the organisers.
Not all submissions will be selected.
Feedback is not guaranteed.
Selected films may be screened at:
Films in the Forest events
Associated talks, Q&A sessions, or community screenings
4. Rights & Permissions
By submitting a film, the filmmaker confirms that:
They hold all necessary rights for public screening, including music, images, and performances.
The film does not infringe any third-party rights.
The filmmaker grants Films in the Forest and YSDM Inc. a non-exclusive, royalty-free licence to: Screen the film at Films in the Forest events.
Use film stills, trailers, and excerpts (up to 2 minutes) for promotional purposes, including FilmFreeway, websites, social media, and printed materials.
All rights remain with the filmmaker.
5. Screening Format
Selected filmmakers may be required to provide a high-quality digital screening file.
The organisers are not responsible for technical issues caused by files that do not meet requested specifications.
6. Fees & Payments
Submission fees (if any) are listed on FilmFreeway.
Screening fees, prizes, or honorariums (if offered) will be clearly communicated to selected filmmakers.
Submission fees are non-refundable.
7. Withdrawal
Films may be withdrawn prior to selection by notifying the organisers via FilmFreeway.
Once selected and scheduled, films should only be withdrawn under exceptional circumstances.
8. Content & Conduct
Films containing hate speech, discrimination, or content promoting harm may be disqualified.
Cultural and First Nations stories must be shared respectfully and with appropriate permissions and protocols.
The organisers reserve the right to remove a selected film if eligibility or rights issues arise.
9. Liability
Films in the Forest and YSDM Inc. are not responsible for loss or damage to submitted materials.
Filmmakers indemnify the organisers against any claims relating to copyright or rights violations.
10. Acceptance of Terms
Submission of a film constitutes acceptance of these Rules & Terms.
