Now in its second edition, GLASGOW FILMSTOCK is a one-day international film festival dedicated to the power of short films — bold, uncompromising, and deeply personal.

Held annually in the vibrant city of Glasgow, the festival presents a handpicked selection of around 20 short films (up to 40 minutes) from around the world. From fiction to documentary, animation to experimental work, the program reflects the full range of human experience — with a strong emphasis on new voices and artistic risk.

In 2025, GLASGOW FILMSTOCK introduces several new initiatives:

– “First Flame” Award – honoring the best debut film by a first-time filmmaker
– Best Local Story – celebrating short films connected to Scottish identity, places, or communities
– Secret Screening – a surprise program announced only at the event
– Student Film Spotlight – curated in partnership with universities and film schools
– Critics’ Conversations – every screening block ends with a 15-minute discussion led by curators and guests

Shortlisted from hundreds of submissions, our films are shown thematically — not just to entertain, but to start conversations.

More than a showcase, GLASGOW FILMSTOCK is a meeting point for filmmakers, cinephiles, and curious minds. Alongside screenings, we host Q&As, networking, and conversations — fostering a community that values cinema as both art and dialogue.

We believe short films are not just stepping stones — they are cinema at its most concentrated and vital.
We believe in filmmakers who take risks.
We believe in stories that feel real.

We look forward to welcoming you to Glasgow.

Awards & Prizes

At GLASGOW FILMSTOCK, we honor bold storytelling, originality, and authentic voices. Our award categories are designed to spotlight a wide range of talent — from seasoned professionals to first-time filmmakers — with a strong focus on artistic intention and emotional impact.

-Main Awards
Best Short Film
Awarded to the most outstanding short of the festival, regardless of genre or origin.

Best Documentary Short
For powerful, truthful storytelling through real-life narratives.

Best Animated Short
Celebrating visual creativity and narrative innovation in animated form.

Best Experimental Short
For films that push the boundaries of form, tone, or cinematic language.

-Special Awards
First Flame Award
Honoring an exceptional short by a first-time filmmaker. Bold vision and creative promise are key.

Best Local Story
Awarded to the best short film rooted in Scottish culture, place, or people. A celebration of local identity.

Audience Award
Voted on by attendees at the festival. For the film that most moved or inspired our audience.

Critics' Choice
Selected by our guest curators and critics — for films that spark debate and provoke reflection.

-Student Film Award
Awarded to the best short created in an academic or training context, selected from submissions by universities and film schools across the UK and abroad.

Rules & Terms

1. We welcome short films from all over the world, produced in or after January 2022. Films must not exceed 40 minutes in length, including credits.

2. Categories
We accept submissions in the following categories:
– Fiction
– Documentary
– Animation
– Experimental
– Student Shorts
– First-Time Filmmakers
– Local Stories (Scotland-based or Scottish-themed content)

3. Films in any language are accepted. However, all non-English films must include English subtitles. Submissions without English subtitles will not be considered.

4. Premiere status is not required. We accept films that have screened at other festivals, but prefer those that have not yet been widely distributed online.

5.If selected, you will be asked to provide a high-quality digital file (.mp4 or .mov preferred). Filmmakers are responsible for ensuring all submitted files meet technical requirements for screening.

6. By submitting a film, you confirm that you own the rights or have obtained necessary permissions for all content, including music, images, and script. The festival bears no responsibility for copyright issues.

7. All submissions are reviewed by our programming team and guest curators. Selection is based on originality, craft, emotional resonance, and vision. Films are grouped thematically for optimal curation and audience experience.

8. Selected films will be screened in-person in Glasgow, with optional director Q&A sessions and audience discussions following each block. A portion of the program may be shown as part of year-round screenings or special curated events.

9. Online Participation (Optional)
We may offer optional online showcases via private, password-protected platforms. Participation in digital screenings is subject to filmmaker approval.

10. Entry fees are non-refundable and help support venue rental, staffing, and outreach. We do not offer waivers, with the exception of officially invited films or those from partner institutions.

11.All selected filmmakers will be notified by email and FilmFreeway. Please ensure your contact details are current.

12. Selected films will be eligible for jury and audience awards. Winners will receive certificates, laurels, and inclusion in our official press releases and promotional campaigns.