Hong Kong, a city renowned for its multiculturalism and hospitality, attracts a vast number of expatriates who come to live and work here every year. This cosmopolitan nature makes Hong Kong the perfect setting for an international film festival. While we proudly take our name from this dynamic city and feature a significant portion of Asian films, our festival warmly welcomes entries from all over the world. We conduct the festival in English and screen films with English subtitles, ensuring accessibility for an international audience. Hong Kong serves as a hub for global representatives, and our festival mirrors this diversity.

Located in the heart of Hong Kong, the festival is a beacon for independent filmmakers and cinephiles around the world. Our festival is not just an event, but a movement to champion diverse voices and promote social change through the art of cinema.

Our mission is clear: to provide a platform where filmmakers from minority groups and diverse cultures can present their unique stories. We believe in the transformative power of film to challenge perceptions and inspire a more inclusive future. By bringing together an eclectic mix of voices, we aim to spark conversations that matter and to reflect the rich of human experience.

Our judges are keen to recognise and reward outstanding cinematic achievements that touch on pressing social issues. Each work is chosen for its ability to touch, engage and provoke thought.

Awards & Prizes

The Certificate Awards are given in the following categories:

Best Feature Film
Best Short Film
Best Documentary
Best Animation

Rules & Terms

Rules for the Hong Kong Lights - International Film Festival

1.1. All films must be submitted through the FilmFreeway platform..
1.2. All submitted films must include English subtitles if the original language is not English.

2.1. Short films must be no longer than 40 minutes, including credits.
2.2. Feature films must be at least 60 minutes long, including credits.
2.3. Student films must be submitted with proof of student status (student ID or a letter from the educational institution).

3.1. Applicants must hold all rights to the film, including music and other copyrighted materials.
3.2. By submitting a film, you grant the festival the right to screen it once during the festival program.
3.3. The festival reserves the right to use excerpts from the films (not exceeding 2 minutes) for promotional purposes.

4.1. All films will be reviewed by the festival selection committee.
4.2. Films selected for participation will be announced no later than the notification date indicated on the FilmFreeway page.
4.3. Applicants will be notified of the selection results via email.

5.1. Categories and awards include:

Best Feature Film
Best Short Film
Best Documentary
Best Director
Best Cinematography
Best Screenplay
Best Animation

5.2. Winners will be announced at the notification date via email.

6.1. Festival participants must comply with all laws and regulations in Hong Kong.
6.2. Any inappropriate behavior may result in disqualification and removal from the event.

7.1. Submission fees are final and non-refundable.

8.1. For any questions or inquiries, please contact us at:

Email: hongkonglightsfestival@gmail.com
Or visit website: hongkonglightsfestival.com

9.1. The festival reserves the right to make changes to the rules and program without prior notice.
9.2. All decisions made by the selection committee and jury are final and not subject to appeal.