RULES

-Open to filmmakers from any country, regardless of background or nationality.

-Accepts both short films (under 40 minutes) and feature-length films (over 65 minutes).

-All genres are welcome, including drama, comedy, thriller, documentary, animation, and experimental.

-Films must have been completed after January 1, 2022

 

-Submission Guidelines:

Submissions must be made via our official online platform (FilmFreeway).

-Each submission must include a completed entry form, submission fee, synopsis, director’s bio, and high-resolution poster or still.

-Films must have English subtitles if not in English or Chinese.

 

-Premiere Requirements:

Priority is given to films premiering in China, although this is not mandatory.

-Films previously screened in China before the festival dates are not eligible.

 

-Screening Formats:

Films selected for screening must be submitted in a high-definition digital format (.mp4 or .mov).

-Excerpts of selected films may be used for promotional purposes.

 

-Selection and Notification:

All submissions will be reviewed by an experienced panel of judges, and the selection committee’s decision is final.

-Filmmakers will be notified by email regarding the status of their submissions and must confirm their participation.

 

-Participation and Promotion:

Selected filmmakers are encouraged to participate in virtual Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and other promotional activities.

-SIFF reserves the right to use stills, posters, and clips from submitted films for promotional purposes.

 

-Awards and Recognition:

SIFF will present awards in various categories, such as Best Short Film, Best Documentary, Best Animation, Most Innovative Film, and more.

-All jury decisions regarding awards are final.

 

-Rights and Responsibilities:

Filmmakers must ensure all necessary rights and permissions are secured for their films.

-SIFF will not be held liable for any legal disputes related to the film content.

 

-Withdrawal Policy:

Submission fees are non-refundable.

-Requests for withdrawal must be submitted in writing, but refunds will not be issued.

 

-General Conditions:

SIFF reserves the right to amend these rules, its festival dates and regulations without notice.

-By submitting a film, participants agree to these rules in full.