TIDE FILM FESTIVAL (TIDEFF) unites directors, producers and writers of color with audiences across communities to highlight and celebrate stories of historically under-represented groups in American cinema. TIDEFF gives a platform for filmmakers of color to tell their truths with intent, to disrupt the mainstream narrative, and to feel entitled in their right to do so.

Festival events include panel discussions, workshops, conversations with industry professionals, receptions, and networking opportunities.

Best Film
Best Director
Best Screenplay
Tarik Jackson - Spirit of TIDE
NY Women in Film and TV (NYWIFT)

TIDE Film Festival accepts films whose writer, director and/or producer are people of color. Strong preference will be given to films with at least 50% people of color on screen presence.

Entry fees are in U.S. dollars, are per film and are non-refundable. The Festival reserves the right to disqualify a submission, without refund of any kind, if eligibility requirements are not met including if eligibility status changes post-submission.

Non-English language works must have English subtitles at the time submitted. Dialogue lists will not be accepted.

It is your sole responsibility to ensure that your online entry form is properly submitted. Approximately 24 hours after you have completed and submitted your online entry form, you will receive an email confirmation. If more than 24 hours have passed and you have not received an email confirmation, you may email the Festival to follow up. It is also your responsibility to ensure the streaming link (or DVD, as applicable) is functional and the link and password submitted are accurate. The password protected link must be active at least through 2023. Regardless of your method of entry, all entry materials MUST be received by the Festival no later than the applicable deadlines referenced above. The Festival reserves the right to disqualify any submission, without refund of any kind, if it is not completed in accordance with these rules and regulations.

Any physical entry material received by the Festival as a submission will not be returned and may be destroyed or discarded by the Festival.

Each film must be individually submitted and accompanied by its own completed online entry form; please do not send links to multiple film entries in your online entry form or compilation DVDs composed of works for separate entries, as any or all of them may be disqualified.

Festival programmers select and invite all films to be presented at the Festival with Premiere status considered. Invited filmmakers will be notified by email or phone via the information provided on the submitted entry form. Make sure to update the Festival with new contact information or any other festival invitations prior to the Festival. If your film is invited, your Premiere status will be confirmed with you and locked. Should you accept any other festival invitation that breaches this premiere status commitment, the Festival reserves the right to rescind the invitation.

You must deliver to the address(es) designated by the Festival one (1) exhibition copy of the invited work, and additional exhibition copies, if requested by the Festival (to allow for multiple screenings at more than one venue). We recommend you ship all exhibition copies via courier in order to permit the tracking of your film once it leaves your hands.

The required exhibition formats and delivery date deadlines will be confirmed by the Festival after invitations have been extended and confirmed. Please check in with the Festival staff before creating your Festival exhibition copy or copies to ensure the format and technical specifications are correct. The Festival will arrange for (and cover the cost of) return shipping of your exhibition copy(copies) to one location after the conclusion of the Festival.

Films invited to participate in the 2023 TIDE Film Festival will be shown in the section determined most appropriate by Festival programmers, in their sole discretion.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Saleem Gondal

    TIDE was an amazing experience. As a festival, they're a great space that centers BIPOC filmmakers and really cares about the community of filmmakers they showcase. The programmers are invested in all the filmmakers in the TIDE community and cultivating joy and excitement about your films and your career. All the events are packed with great music, food and conversation about what a thriving film space can be for BIPOC filmmakers. I'm grateful for the kindness and support they shared with us this year and am excited for the years to come.

    December 2023
  • Maryam Mir

    The most warm, inclusive, generous festival I've ever attended. They make their filmmakers feel seen, cared for and held. The screenings are so well curated and intentional, and the q&as celebrate the entire team(s) behind the film(s). After this weekend, I felt so full (literally and metaphorically)! Can't wait till next year.

    December 2023
  • Ifeyinwa Arinze

    An intimate festival centering BIPOC voices with such BIG heart. I'm so delighted that TIDE programmed my short film for this year's festival. It's rare to partake in festivals that embody a sense of intimacy, intention and generosity. TIDE cares so much about its filmmakers that it not only created networking opportunities, but also made sure we were fed! This is a gem of a festival. Honored to be part of the IDE family.

    November 2022
  • Ricardo Varona

    An incredible festival with an amazing mission. Can't wait to see it grow more and more. They really make you feel like part of the family and have an INCREDIBLY strong program. Truly inspiring.

    November 2022
  • Jane Brill

    What an amazing weekend of fantastic programming, food and new connections! It was an honor to be included in this year festival. Everyone was incredibly generous and welcoming - really feels like new family. Thank you again!

    November 2022