FILM SUBMISSION RULES
Film Categories
Film Submission Rules
• Open to all genres and languages
• Original or rights-cleared content
• Films previously screened publicly are eligible
• Submit via digital file, Vimeo, or YouTube link
• Genre tags optional; used for programming but awards remain general
• Commercials: max 10 minutes, original work, any platform (TV, social, web)
• Open to all genres and languages
• Must be original work or rights cleared
• Films previously screened publicly are eligible
• Submit via digital file, Vimeo, or YouTube link
• Genre tags optional; used for programming blocks but not separate awards
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Feature Film Competition – Rules
Runtime: Must exceed 40 minutes.
Completion Date: Eligible films must have been completed within the last 24 months.
Genre: Open to narrative and documentary features.
Premiere Status: No strict premiere requirement, but priority may be given to films with limited prior festival exposure.
Language: Non-English films must include English subtitles.
Submission Format: A secure online screener is required; no physical media is accepted.
Rights: Submitter must hold all rights and permissions for exhibition.
Multiple Entries: Allowed, but each entry requires a separate submission and fee.
Rough Cuts: Accepted if clearly labeled, but final cuts must be delivered by the stated deadline.
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Short Film Competition – Rules
Runtime: Must be 40 minutes or under, including credits.
Completion Date: Must be completed within the last 24 months.
Genre: All genres and styles welcome.
Language: Non-English films must include English subtitles.
Submission Format: Online screener only; no downloads or physical media.
Rights: Submitter must control all exhibition rights.
Multiple Entries: Permitted with separate submissions and fees.
Student Films: Eligible but must include proof of student status if submitting through a student category (if offered).
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Breakthrough Filmmaker Competition – Rules
Eligibility: Open to emerging filmmakers directing their first or second film (feature or short).
Verification: Submitter must disclose filmography for eligibility confirmation.
Completion Date: Work must be completed within the last 24 months.
Language: Non-English films require English subtitles.
Submission Format: Online screener required.
Rights: Submitter must hold all exhibition rights.
Multiple Entries: Allowed, but each film is evaluated separately and requires its own submission fee.
Co-Directors: All co-directors must qualify as “breakthrough” to be eligible.
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Commercial & Branded Content Competition – Rules
Eligible Work: Commercials, branded content, promotional films, and client-driven creative pieces.
Runtime: No strict limit, but recommended under 10 minutes for review clarity.
Completion Date: Must be produced within the past 24 months.
Client Permissions: Submitter must have clearance from the brand/client for festival exhibition.
Language: Non-English work must include English subtitles.
Submission Format: Online screener required.
Rights: Submitter must hold all non-exclusive festival screening rights.
Multiple Entries: Allowed with separate submissions and fees.
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FEATURE & SHORT SCRIPT COMPETITION RULES
1. Eligibility
Open to writers aged 18 and over worldwide.
Scripts must be written in English.
Entries must be original works owned solely by the entrant(s).
Co-written scripts are accepted, but prizes will be awarded jointly.
2. Submission Guidelines
Scripts must be in PDF or Word format, properly formatted for film (12pt Courier, standard screenplay layout).
Maximum length: 120 pages (Feature) 25 (Short)
After purchase, entrants must email their script to scripts@smugllama.com with their name and order number in the subject line. Multiple entries are allowed; each requires a separate entry fee and submission.
Finalists are announced 08th June 2026
Early Bird Deadline: 13th December2025
Standard Deadline: 13th January 2026
Final Deadline: 13th February 2026
3. Judging & Selection
Scripts will be reviewed by the Smug Llama reading and development team. Judging is based on originality, storytelling, character development, structure, and screen potential. Shortlisted scripts will be announced on our website and social channels. The winner and finalists will be notified by email.
4. Prizes & Pre-Development Support
Cash prize awarded to the winner.
The winning project will also receive pre-development and production support, which include:
• Professional script coverage and feedback
• Producer consultation sessions
•.Budgeting and scheduling guidance
• Pitch deck and presentation material development
• Introductions for pitching opportunities
*Please note: Pre-development support does not guarantee full production funding. It is intended to prepare the project for pitching and potential investment consideration. Funding is prioritised in numerical order so SLF001 retains priority. The value of the above constitutes production package.
5. Rights & Ownership
Writers retain full ownership and copyright of their work.
By entering, you grant Smug Llama Productions permission to use your name, script title, and logline for promotional purposes related to the competition.
Smug Llama Productions will not claim any rights or ownership of your script without a separate written agreement.
6. Disqualification
Entries may be disqualified if they:
Are plagiarized or infringe on existing intellectual property.
Contain hate speech, discriminatory content, or unlawful material.
Fail to meet submission or payment requirements.
7. Refunds & Deadlines
Entry fees are non-refundable.
Late or incomplete entries may not be considered.
8. Agreement
By submitting your script, you agree to these terms and confirm that all information provided is accurate and that you are the rightful owner of the submitted work.
