🎬 LACLA Student Film Festival 2025

The Latin American Cinemateca of Los Angeles (LACLA) is thrilled to present the 15th Annual Student Film Festival! This year, we’re shining a spotlight on the creativity and talent of middle and high school filmmakers from across Los Angeles. From compelling narratives to innovative experimental films, this is your chance to share your voice and vision with the world.

Event Date: May 18, 2025

Submission Deadlines:
 Early Bird Deadline: February 1, 2024
 Regular Deadline: March 10, 2025
 Late Deadline: March 31, 2025
 Final Cut-Off: April 20, 2025

Join us for a celebration of storytelling, art, and innovation. Selected films will be screened at our in-person event, and awards will be presented for outstanding achievement.

Eligibility & Categories
We welcome submissions from middle and high school students in the greater Los Angeles area. Films must meet the following criteria:

 Genres Accepted: Narrative, Documentary, Animation, Experimental, and PSA (Public Service Announcement).
 Length: Films must be 5 minutes or less.
 Production Dates: Only films produced during 2024-2025 are eligible.

Submission Rules
1. All films must be original works created by students with the consent of a teacher or mentor.
2. Films in languages other than English must include English subtitles.
3. No re-submissions unless the film has been significantly altered or re-edited.
4. Multiple submissions are allowed, but each film must have its own entry form.

How to Submit
Submit your film through FilmFreeway by the deadlines listed above. Submissions are FREE.

Required Submission Materials:

 High-quality video file (MOV, MP4, or WMV).
 A short film synopsis (100 words or less).
 Director’s name and contact information.
 Signed permission form (if required by school, parent or mentor).

Awards & Recognition
Awards will be presented in the following categories:

Best Film
Best Documentary
Most Creative Film

Winners will receive a certificate of achievement, monetary prize and recognition at the festival. Selected films may also be featured on LACLA’s website and social media platforms.

Technical Specifications
 For Screening: 1920 x 1080 resolution preferred.
 Audio: Ensure clear sound with no distortion.
 Aspect Ratio: Standard 16:9 preferred.

Our Mission
The Latin American Cinemateca of Los Angeles is dedicated to fostering cultural expression and exchange through the art of cinema. By encouraging young filmmakers to tell their stories, we aim to empower the next generation of creators and celebrate the rich diversity of our community.

Contact Us
Have questions about your submission? Need technical assistance? We’re here to help!
Melina Rodriguez, Student Film Festival
Latin American Cinemateca of Los Angeles
melina@lacla.org, info@lacla.org

Awards & Prizes

Best Film
Best Documentary
Most Creative

Rules & Terms

Eligibility & Categories
We welcome submissions from middle and high school students in the greater Los Angeles area. Films must meet the following criteria:

 Genres Accepted: Narrative, Documentary, Animation, Experimental, and PSA (Public Service Announcement).
 Length: Films must be 5 minutes or less.
 Production Dates: Only films produced during 2024-2025 are eligible.

Submission Rules
1. All films must be original works created by students with the consent of a teacher or mentor.
2. Films in languages other than English must include English subtitles.
3. No re-submissions unless the film has been significantly altered or re-edited.
4. Multiple submissions are allowed, but each film must have its own entry form.

Legal Notes: By participating, you affirm your authority to submit the film and guarantee that all necessary rights and clearances have been obtained. LACLA holds no responsibility for any claims or liabilities related to the films submitted. We reserve the right to use excerpts and stills from accepted films for promotional activities. Films may be rejected if the appropriate digital file is not provided by the deadline.