FILM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Submitted films must be created by a writer, director, and/or producer who identifies as a person of color (including, but not limited to, East Asian, South Asian, Black, African-American, Latino/a/x, and Pacific Islander) AND/OR feature people of color prominently in the cast and storyline. At a minimum, the film must showcase a diverse cast that reflects the evolving global demographic.
MVAAFF programming prioritizes premieres and original works in both narrative and documentary categories, including features and shorts.
All selected films must be available for screening in DCP (Digital Cinema Package) format.
Films must have composite optical sound.
Films submitted for competition must not have had commercial distribution or been broadcast in the United States. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the programming committee for small, non-commercial, or unpublicized screenings.
It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the submitted online screener link and password are functional throughout the review period. While MVAAFF may attempt to contact the applicant to resolve access issues, the festival is under no obligation to do so. Any screener that is inaccessible may be disqualified without refund.
MVAAFF does not pay rental or screening fees. Our resources are invested in creating a high-quality platform to showcase your work and maximize its exposure.
Films must have been completed on or after January 1, 2026.
Works-in-progress are eligible for submission, provided that the final version (including a DCP) is delivered prior to the festival screening.
Previously submitted films are not eligible for resubmission.
FILM SUBMISSION PROCEDURE
All submissions must be made exclusively via FilmFreeway as an online screener. No physical submissions or alternative formats will be accepted.
Each submission must meet the total runtime (TRT) requirements outlined for its category.
There is no limit to the number of submissions per filmmaker, as long as each project is submitted separately with a corresponding fee.
Filmmakers will be notified via email by June 30, 2026. If you have not received notification by that date, you are encouraged to follow up via email.
If selected, filmmakers must complete all festival acceptance paperwork as soon as possible.
FILM SUBMISSION FEES
A submission fee is required for each entry and must be paid in full via FilmFreeway (credit card only). No exceptions.
All submission fees are non-refundable, regardless of selection status.
