Film Competitions to Participate in Summer of 2023

Summer is here and it's time to show off your filmmaking skills! Here are the top film competitions to participate in this summer and fall. 

1. Student Filmmakers

Student Filmmakers, #1 Educational Resource for Film and Video makers is hosting a Sizzling Summer Shorts Video Contest. The competition is open to all members of the Student Filmmakers community. Short films must be under 5 minutes in length and showcase originality. No age limit! Winners will receive a certificate of recognition and a feature in the Student Filmmakers Magazine, among other listed prizes. Submissions are due by September 23, 2023.

2. Austin Film Festival

The Austin Film Festival is entering its 30th year. It's mission is to to further the art and craft of storytelling. This competition is open to all filmmakers ages 13 – 18. Filmmakers must also be in middle school or high school during the time of production to be eligible. Proof of enrollment required. Films should be 12 minutes or less. Selected films will play in the Young Filmmakers Showcase as part of the 30th annual Austin Film Festival and Writers Conference in October 2023. Films are due in by September 1st.

3. Indie Short Film Series

The INDIE short FILM SERIES returns for its 13th installment on Saturday, August 19, 2023 - 7:00pm in Charlottesville, Virginia. This event often takes place monthly and is a platform for independent filmmakers to share and talk about their stories. If in the Charlottesville, VA area, definitely worth checking out!

4. All American High School Film Festival

The AAHSFF is held in New York City in October. This year marks the 11th annual celebration. It is an event you don't want to miss. You must be in high school to participate and you can form teams to compete. The competition begins on Monday, August 14th when teams receive the Official Welcome Packet and begin pre-production. Teams have 10 weeks to produce their final submission. All submissions are due by Friday, October 20th, 2023 at 4:00PM EST. Take a look at their website for more information.

There are several other film competitions and series to look out for this summer. It's best to check with your local communities.

One to look at for next year is NFFTY. NFFTY is for emerging directors, 24 years and young. NFFY supports young filmmakers year round with workshops. It usually takes place in April in Seattle, Washington so be on the lookout for it in 2024.

Stay tuned for more competitions and events.