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Portland Under the Stars Film Festival (3)

Deadlines

23 Jul 2026
Call for entries

10 Dec 2026
Early deadline

18 Feb 2027
Standard deadline

29 Apr 2027
Late deadline

24 Jun 2027
Extended deadline

8
mths

22 Jul 2027
Notification date

13 Aug 2027
14 Aug 2027

Address

Address: 1624 NW Glisan St, 97209, Portland, Not a province, United States

Festival description

Short film festival 40'<

Feature film festival >40'

Text projects

Festival requirements

Film festival

Fiction

Documentary

Animation

Fantastic

Terror

Experimental

Music Video

Other

Genres

Any Theme

Has submission fees

International Festival

Physical Location

January 2025

Production countries: Any

Shooting countries: Any

Director nationalities: Any

Debut Films

School projects

Short Films 40'<

Feature Films >40'

AI Tools

Languages
English

Subtitles
English

Share on Social Networks

Facebook
Tweet

English

Festival description (Edition: 3)

Festival start: 13 August 2027 Festival end: 14 August 2027

Portland Under the Stars is the city’s newest celebration of cinematic creativity and storytelling, bringing the magic of film to the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Hosted at the historic McMenamins Mission Theater, this festival offers an unforgettable experience where Portland’s artistic spirit meets the glamour of the red carpet.

Picture yourself walking into one of Portland’s most iconic venues, surrounded by its vintage charm and intimate atmosphere. Start the evening with a red carpet welcome, complete with professional photos to capture your moment in the spotlight. Then, immerse yourself in a handpicked selection of films spanning diverse genres—thought-provoking narratives, laugh-out-loud comedies, gripping horrors, inspiring documentaries, and more.

But this is more than just a screening. Engage in live Q&A sessions with attending filmmakers and screenwriters, sharing your creative journey and connecting with an engaged audience. Be part of the action by voting for the Audience Choice Award, where every voice matters.

Wrap up the night with a lively award ceremony, honoring exceptional talent with custom-crafted trophies that celebrate Portland’s innovative and unique character. And for those seeking connections and collaboration, our outdoor networking mixer at Sonder provides the perfect setting to meet fellow filmmakers and creatives.

Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker, an established creator, or simply a lover of great cinema, Portland Under the Stars promises a night filled with inspiration, celebration, and community. This is your opportunity to be part of something new and extraordinary in one of the most creative cities in the world.

Prizes and qualifications

At Portland Under the Stars, we’re thrilled to honor amazing films and screenplays with these exciting trophies:

Superstar Award: Judges' Choice for the highest-rated film of the festival.

Rose City Trailblazer Award: Honoring an individual or project that has made a meaningful impact on Portland's independent film community through bold storytelling, creative leadership, and lasting artistic contribution.

Audience Choice Award: Selected by festival attendees.

Best Short Screenplay: Recognizing exceptional storytelling in short-form screenwriting.

Best Feature Screenplay: Honoring outstanding feature-length screenwriting.

Additional Awards

Best Feature

Best Narrative Short

Best Comedy

Best Horror

Best Music Video

Best Animation

Best Documentary

Best Micro-Short

Best Student Short

Most Original Concept

Best Oregon Film

M. Night Shyamalan Award (Best Twist)

Keep Portland Weird

Screenplay Awards

Best Overall Screenplay (Short & Feature)

Best Narrative Screenplay (Short & Feature)

Best Comedy Screenplay (Short & Feature)

Best Horror Screenplay (Short & Feature)

Rules

Portland Under the Stars is committed to maintaining high ethical and professional standards.

Participants must adhere to the following guidelines:

Submission Requirements: Films must be in English or include English subtitles.

Only original works are eligible for submission.

Ethical Conduct: Any unethical behavior, including plagiarism or dishonesty, is strictly prohibited.

Communication: Entrants must maintain open and timely communication with festival organizers.

Failure to respond to inquiries or provide required information may result in disqualification.

Legal Indemnity: By submitting, entrants agree to indemnify the festival and its staff from any liability, claims, or damages associated with their submissions.

Disqualification: Failure to meet submission criteria, deadlines, or professional conduct requirements will result in disqualification without a refund.

Your participation contributes to creating a vibrant and respectful festival environment. Join us at Portland Under the Stars, where storytelling and creativity shine brighter than ever!

Narrative Feature

Short and Feature Films >40'

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 60$ 55.2$ 49.2$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 65$ 59.8$ 53.3$ 18 Feb 27

Late 70$ 64.4$ 57.4$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 80$ 73.6$ 65.6$ 24 Jun 27

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Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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10.8$

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Narrative Features celebrate feature-length fictional films that reflect the bold spirit of independent cinema. We welcome stories across every genre that captivate audiences through compelling characters, fresh perspectives, and authentic creative voices, while celebrating the artistry and community that make independent filmmaking thrive.

Premiere Status: Narrative Features must not have previously screened publicly in the Portland metropolitan area.

Documentary Feature

Short and Feature Films >40'

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 60$ 55.2$ 49.2$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 65$ 59.8$ 53.3$ 18 Feb 27

Late 70$ 64.4$ 57.4$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 80$ 73.6$ 65.6$ 24 Jun 27

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Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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10.8$

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Documentary Features explore the world through compelling long-form storytelling, thoughtful filmmaking, and powerful human experiences. We welcome feature-length documentaries that educate, inspire, and spark meaningful conversation.

Genere Feature

Short and Feature Films >40'

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 60$ 55.2$ 49.2$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 65$ 59.8$ 53.3$ 18 Feb 27

Late 70$ 64.4$ 57.4$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 80$ 73.6$ 65.6$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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10.8$

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Genere Features are feature-length fictional films that celebrate the limitless possibilities of genre storytelling, including horror, comedy, science fiction, fantasy, thriller, mystery, action, adventure, and beyond. We welcome independent filmmakers who entertain, surprise, and inspire through imaginative worlds, memorable characters, and bold creative vision, while bringing audiences together for unforgettable cinematic experiences.

Narrative Short

Short Films 40'<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 40$ 36.8$ 32.8$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 47$ 43.24$ 38.54$ 18 Feb 27

Late 54$ 49.68$ 44.28$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 60$ 55.2$ 49.2$ 24 Jun 27

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Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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Narrative Shorts celebrate the art of storytelling through compelling characters, emotional resonance, and distinctive creative vision. From intimate dramas and heartfelt comedies to thought-provoking genre films, we welcome short narratives that entertain, inspire, challenge, and leave a lasting impression.

Horror Short

Short Films 40'<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 40$ 36.8$ 32.8$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 47$ 43.24$ 38.54$ 18 Feb 27

Late 54$ 49.68$ 44.28$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 60$ 55.2$ 49.2$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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7.2$

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Horror Shorts embrace fear through atmosphere, suspense, psychological tension, supernatural themes, and unforgettable storytelling. We welcome short horror films of every style that thrill audiences while showcasing originality, craftsmanship, and creative vision.

Comedy Short

Short Films 40'<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 40$ 36.8$ 32.8$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 47$ 43.24$ 38.54$ 18 Feb 27

Late 54$ 49.68$ 44.28$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 60$ 55.2$ 49.2$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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7.2$

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Comedy Shorts celebrate humor in all its forms through memorable characters, sharp writing, and inspired performances. From witty satire to heartfelt laughs and absurd adventures, we welcome films that entertain audiences with originality and charm.

Documentary Short

Short Films 40'<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 40$ 36.8$ 32.8$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 47$ 43.24$ 38.54$ 18 Feb 27

Late 54$ 49.68$ 44.28$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 60$ 55.2$ 49.2$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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7.2$

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Documentary Shorts shine a light on real people, powerful stories, and meaningful perspectives. We welcome nonfiction films that inform, inspire, challenge, and connect audiences through authentic storytelling and creative vision.

Animation Short

Short Films 40'<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 38$ 34.96$ 31.16$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 43$ 39.56$ 35.26$ 18 Feb 27

Late 50$ 46$ 41$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 55$ 50.6$ 45.1$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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6.84$

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Animated Films celebrate storytelling through imagination, artistry, and innovative animation techniques. Whether hand-drawn, stop-motion, CGI, or experimental, we welcome animated works that captivate audiences through creativity and craftsmanship.

Music Video

Short and Feature Films

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 38$ 34.96$ 31.16$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 43$ 39.56$ 35.26$ 18 Feb 27

Late 50$ 46$ 41$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 55$ 50.6$ 45.1$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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6.84$

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Music Videos blend visual storytelling with the power of music to create unforgettable cinematic experiences. We welcome original works that showcase artistic vision, creative direction, and a compelling connection between sound and image.

Arthouse Short

Short Films 40'<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 40$ 36.8$ 32.8$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 47$ 43.24$ 38.54$ 18 Feb 27

Late 54$ 49.68$ 44.28$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 60$ 55.2$ 49.2$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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7.2$

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Experimental Films challenge traditional storytelling through bold artistic expression, innovative techniques, and creative exploration. We welcome films that push boundaries, embrace originality, and invite audiences to experience cinema in unexpected ways.

Student Short

Short Films 40'<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 33$ 30.36$ 27.06$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 38$ 34.96$ 31.16$ 18 Feb 27

Late 45$ 41.4$ 36.9$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 50$ 46$ 41$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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Student Films celebrate the next generation of filmmakers through creativity, innovation, and bold storytelling. Open to current students and recent graduates, this category recognizes emerging voices demonstrating exceptional promise and artistic vision.

Micro & Smartphone Short

Short Films 5'<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 33$ 30.36$ 27.06$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 37$ 34.04$ 30.34$ 18 Feb 27

Late 42$ 38.64$ 34.44$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 45$ 41.4$ 36.9$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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5.94$

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Micro Shorts celebrate the art of storytelling in its most concise form. Open to films five minutes or less, this category welcomes bold ideas, creative vision, and memorable stories that leave a lasting impression in just a few minutes.

Web Series & Pilot Episodes

Short and Feature Films

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 40$ 36.8$ 32.8$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 47$ 43.24$ 38.54$ 18 Feb 27

Late 54$ 49.68$ 44.28$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 60$ 55.2$ 49.2$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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Web Series & Episodic Projects celebrate engaging serialized storytelling through memorable characters, compelling narratives, and strong creative vision. We welcome pilots and individual episodes that leave audiences eager for what comes next.

Narrative Feature Screenplays

Script / Pitch >40p

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 45$ 41.4$ 36.9$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 55$ 50.6$ 45.1$ 18 Feb 27

Late 65$ 59.8$ 53.3$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 70$ 64.4$ 57.4$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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8.1$

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Narrative Feature Screenplays celebrate exceptional long-form storytelling through compelling characters, engaging dialogue, and unforgettable narratives. We welcome original feature-length scripts that demonstrate creativity, strong structure, and a distinctive voice.

Genre Feature Screenplay (comedy, horror, sci-fi)

Script / Pitch >60p

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 45$ 41.4$ 36.9$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 55$ 50.6$ 45.1$ 18 Feb 27

Late 65$ 59.8$ 53.3$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 70$ 64.4$ 57.4$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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8.1$

Submit

Horror • Comedy • Science Fiction • Fantasy • Thriller • Mystery • Action • Adventure Genre Feature Screenplays celebrate imaginative storytelling across horror, comedy, science fiction, fantasy, thriller, and other genre cinema. We welcome original feature-length scripts that combine compelling narratives with inventive world-building and memorable characters.

Screenplay Narrative Short

Script / Pitch 40p<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 32$ 29.44$ 26.24$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 38$ 34.96$ 31.16$ 18 Feb 27

Late 45$ 41.4$ 36.9$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 50$ 46$ 41$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

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5.76$

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Narrative Short Screenplays showcase the power of storytelling in a concise format. We welcome original short scripts that deliver memorable characters, emotional impact, and cinematic storytelling through creativity, precision, and a clear artistic vision.

Screenplay Genre Short (comedy, horror, sci-fi)

Script / Pitch 30p<

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 32$ 29.44$ 26.24$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 38$ 34.96$ 31.16$ 18 Feb 27

Late 45$ 41.4$ 36.9$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 50$ 46$ 41$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

Save up
5.76$

Submit

Short-form screenplays (under 30 pages) in Comedy, Horror, and Science Fiction. These scripts should tell impactful, genre-specific stories within a limited timeframe, demonstrating the power of brevity and creativity.

Screenplay TV Pilot

Script / Pitch

Fee

-8%

PRO 18%

Early 40$ 36.8$ 32.8$ 10 Dec 26

Standard 50$ 46$ 41$ 18 Feb 27

Late 58$ 53.36$ 47.56$ 29 Apr 27

Extended 65$ 59.8$ 53.3$ 24 Jun 27

Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees

Submissions deadline
24 Jun 27

Save up
7.2$

Submit

TV Pilot Screenplays introduce audiences to compelling worlds, memorable characters, and stories built for the long journey ahead. We welcome original pilot scripts that demonstrate engaging dialogue, strong structure, and series-worthy storytelling.

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