Submit
Your Film

Submit your film

Submit your work through FilmFreeway. We accept short films, features, documentaries, and experimental films from independent filmmakers worldwide. All genres and languages are welcome.

Jury evaluation

Every submission is reviewed by our jury — a combination of internal and external jury members with international backgrounds. Films are evaluated on artistic merit, originality, direction, and overall impact.

Selection & awards

Selected films will be chosen for the official programme. Among those, winners will be announced for each category. Films may receive an award, an honorable mention, or selection status — each recognised with an official certificate.

Notification

All filmmakers will receive their selection status on the official notification date. Within a couple of days, winners and selected filmmakers will receive more precise information about their award and screening placement.

Screenings in Berlin

Selected films become eligible for public screenings in Berlin — at Kino Babylon and at other partner venues across the city. The most recognised films will be placed in official Babylon events. Filmmakers are welcome to contact us to find a screening date that fits both their availability and our programme schedule.

Film length

Short films are defined as any film with a runtime under 40 minutes. Feature films are 45 minutes or longer. Films between 40 and 45 minutes may be classified at the festival's discretion.

Language & subtitles

Films in all languages are welcome. Films not in English or German should include English subtitles to ensure accessibility for our international jury and audience.

Rights & permissions

Filmmakers are responsible for holding all necessary rights to the submitted work, including music, visuals, and any third-party content. Submissions found to be in violation of copyright may be withdrawn from consideration.

Multiple entries & categories

Filmmakers may submit more than one film. Each film may also be entered in multiple categories, provided it meets the criteria for each. There is no limit on the number of entries per filmmaker.

Screening permission

Films will not be screened publicly without the express written permission of the filmmaker. By submitting, filmmakers grant the festival permission to use clips, trailers, and stills for promotional and marketing purposes.

Screening schedule

Longer films and documentaries may be scheduled during afternoon slots rather than peak evening screenings. The festival makes every effort to accommodate preferences, but reserves the right to determine the final programme schedule.

Winners & public screenings

All winning films are eligible for public screening at festival events. Winners may also be featured in promotional events, retrospectives, or encore screenings. Screening dates are coordinated with filmmakers and may be adjusted based on venue availability — filmmakers are welcome to contact us to find a date that works for them.

Submission format

All submissions should be in a high-quality digital format suitable for large-screen projection (e.g. MP4 or MOV). Submissions with incomplete files, very low resolution, or significant technical issues may not be considered for the programme.

Judging criteria

Films are evaluated on creativity, storytelling, technical execution, and originality. Our jury includes both internal and external members with international backgrounds. All decisions are final.

Notification

Filmmakers will be notified of their selection status by email on the official notification date published on our website. Winners and selected filmmakers will receive full details — including award category and screening information — within a few days of notification.