Festival start: 28 February 2026
Festival end: 28 February 2026
The Stafford Film Festival is a vibrant celebration of global storytelling, creativity, and cinematic excellence. Set in the heart of Staffordshire, the festival brings together filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts from around the world for a unique cultural experience.
What Filmmakers Can Expect:
Grand Prize: $500 | 2nd Prize: $250
Showcasing Your Work:
Your film will be presented to an engaged audience in a professional venue, alongside a curated selection of outstanding films spanning diverse genres and perspectives.
Networking Opportunities:
Meet fellow filmmakers, industry leaders, and festival attendees during dedicated networking sessions before and after screenings. Exchange ideas, form connections, and explore potential collaborations in a friendly, supportive environment.
Interactive Q&A Sessions:
Engage with audiences during post-screening Q&A sessions, offering insights into your creative process and receiving valuable feedback directly from viewers.
Exclusive Filmmaker Interviews:
Finalists and winners will have the opportunity to participate in an exclusive online video interview or an in-person interview at the festival. These interviews will delve into their project, creative motivation, and filmmaking process, providing valuable exposure and a platform to share their journey with a wider audience.
Recognition and Awards:
Compete for prestigious awards across multiple categories, including our Grand Prize of $500 and a 2nd Prize of $250. The festival honours achievements in feature films, documentaries, shorts, animation, experimental works, and more.
Community and Culture:
Immerse yourself in the local culture and community of Staffordshire, a region steeped in history. Experience the warmth of its people and the beauty of its surroundings while sharing your art with an appreciative audience.
The Stafford Film Festival is more than an event—it’s a platform for filmmakers to share their vision, connect with a global community, and gain recognition for their creativity and hard work. Join us and let your story shine!
Cash Prizes: 450€
At the Stafford Film Festival, films are evaluated by a panel of esteemed industry professionals, including experts from institutions like the BBC and individuals who have contributed to Oscar-nominated films. Our judges bring a wealth of experience and a keen eye for quality storytelling, ensuring that every submission is assessed with the highest standards of professionalism and respect.
All films are judged using a comprehensive point-scoring system, where each project is evaluated across key criteria such as creativity, technical execution, originality, and audience impact. The films with the highest average scores progress to the final selection, giving all submissions a fair and transparent opportunity to shine.
The Stafford Film Festival celebrates creativity and storytelling by recognising exceptional achievements in filmmaking. With diverse award categories and valuable prizes, the festival offers filmmakers an incredible opportunity to showcase their work to a global audience and gain meaningful recognition.
Award Categories
Filmmakers can submit their projects in the following categories:
Best TV Pilot/Web Series
Best Feature Film, Best Short Film, Best Student Film
Best Documentary, Best Short Documentary, Best Student Documentary
Best Animation, Best Short Animation, Best Student Animation
Best Experimental Film
Best AI-Generated Film
Best Music / Performance
Best First-Time Filmmaker
Best One-Minute Film
Best Feature Script, Best Short Script
Best Original Song
Audience Choice Award
Awards and Prizes
Winners in each category will receive:
- Official Stafford Film Festival Trophy
Each category winner will be awarded a beautifully crafted festival trophy to commemorate their success and recognition at the festival.
- Industry Recognition
Your work will be highlighted on our website, social media platforms, and press materials, offering excellent exposure.
- Networking Opportunities
As a winner, you’ll gain access to filmmakers, industry leaders, and festival attendees during exclusive events.
- Screening & Potential Future Screenings
Selected winners may be featured in screenings, additional screenings, or have opportunities for collaborations with festival partners.
- Potential Distribution
All films selected as finalists will be presented to our friends in distribution to help promote the possibility of distribution deals for the selected films.
- Receive Official Festival Merchandise
Winners will receive exclusive Stafford Film Festival merchandise as a token of appreciation for their achievement.
The authorised representative of the project named below (hereafter called the “Project”) submitting to Stafford Film Festival Institute (hereafter called the “Institute”) for consideration for Stafford Film Festival (hereafter called the “Festival”), hereby acknowledges the following:
1. Rights & Permissions
1. The undersigned represents and warrants that:
a) They are duly authorised, on behalf of all Project Owners, to permit the Institute to exhibit this Project in the Festival and to make the representations and warranties set forth herein.
b) Exhibition of the Project in the Festival will not violate any law or any right or consent of any person or entity, whether such exhibition is theatrical (live), digital, or any combination thereof.
c) The Project is not subject to any litigation, arbitration, or other adversarial claim or proceeding, nor is the Project the subject of any threat of litigation.
d) The Project may be screened in full at a physical location or digitally, including across social media platforms, at the discretion of the Institute.
2. Screening & Festival Participation
2. Stafford Film Festival reserves the right to screen or not screen any submitted film, including those of finalists and winners. Submission does not guarantee screening at the live event, digital platforms, or in any format.
3. Stafford Film Festival is in no way obliged to conduct interviews with filmmakers or participants of the festival. Requests for interviews, press coverage, or additional exposure are granted solely at the discretion of the Festival.
4. Stafford Film Festival reserves the right to inform or not inform participants of the results of the Festival. While we strive to maintain communication, we are not obligated to provide individual feedback, results notifications, or detailed explanations regarding selection decisions.
3. Intellectual Property & Legal Clearances
5. The undersigned warrants that the Project’s exhibition in the Festival, whether live or digital, will not infringe any copyright, patent, privacy right, publicity right, trademark, service mark, or any other personal or property right of any person or entity.
6. The undersigned acknowledges that the Festival assumes no obligation to provide compensation for the exhibition of any Project, except for official festival awards, which may include cash prizes.
4. Code of Conduct & Disqualification Policy
7. Disrespectful, rude, or abusive behaviour towards the staff of Stafford Film Festival or anyone associated with the Festival will result in immediate disqualification and forfeiture of the submission fee. Stafford Film Festival maintains a professional and inclusive environment, and any behaviour violating this standard will not be tolerated.
8. The Festival reserves the right to rescind invitations, awards, and participation privileges from individuals or films that violate our Code of Conduct.
5. Liability & Indemnification
9. The undersigned and the Project Owners agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Institute, the Festival, and all related parties from any and all claims, losses, liabilities, damages, fees, and expenses arising from the Project’s participation in the Festival.
10. The submission of a Project does not impose any obligation on the Festival to accept, exhibit, or provide feedback on the Project.
6. Prize Money & Payment Conditions
11. Any prize money awarded can only be paid to a PayPal account. It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure they have an active and valid PayPal account to receive payments. The Festival will not make payments through bank transfers, cheques, or any other financial platform.
7. Arbitration & Legal Matters
12. Any claim or dispute relating to the Project, Festival, or these Terms and Conditions will be subject to binding arbitration. The arbitrator will have no power to award punitive or exemplary damages, and any awarded relief shall not exceed a refund of the submission fee.
8. Final Agreement & Acceptance of Terms
13. By submitting a Project to Stafford Film Festival, the undersigned acknowledges they have read and accepted these Rules & Terms. No oral representations or assurances outside of this agreement will be deemed valid.
14. If accepted, the Project Owners will enter into a Festival Participation Agreement incorporating all terms herein.
15. Postage for awards (if applicable) is to be covered by the recipient.
By submitting a film, all entrants agree to abide by these terms and conditions.
Feature Film
Feature Films >60'
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early30€27.6€
24.6€
03 May 25
Standard40€36.8€
32.8€
06 Sep 25
Late45€41.4€
36.9€
01 Nov 25
Extended50€46€
41€
10 Jan 26
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Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
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7.2€
Submit
We accept drama feature films over 60 minutes in length, showcasing compelling storytelling, rich character development, and strong directorial vision. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, offering valuable exposure and networking opportunities.
Short Film
Short and Feature Films 60'<
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early30€27.6€
24.6€
03 May 25
Standard40€36.8€
32.8€
06 Sep 25
Late45€41.4€
36.9€
01 Nov 25
Extended50€46€
41€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
7.2€
Submit
We welcome drama short films of any genre, provided they are under 60 minutes in length. We seek emotionally compelling narratives, strong character development, and impactful storytelling. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, offering valuable exposure and opportunities for future collaborations.
Student Short Film
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early20€18.4€
16.4€
03 May 25
Standard30€27.6€
24.6€
06 Sep 25
Late35€32.2€
28.7€
01 Nov 25
Extended40€36.8€
32.8€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
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5.4€
Submit
We welcome student-produced drama short films of any length, showcasing emerging talent, fresh storytelling perspectives, and artistic vision. This category is open to students at any level of study, providing a platform for filmmakers to share their work with a wider audience. Submissions may include narrative dramas, psychological thrillers, period pieces, or socially driven stories that explore human emotions, relationships, and impactful themes. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, offering valuable exposure and networking opportunities for the next generation of filmmakers.
Feature Documentary Film
Feature Films >60'
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early30€27.6€
24.6€
03 May 25
Standard40€36.8€
32.8€
06 Sep 25
Late45€41.4€
36.9€
01 Nov 25
Extended50€46€
41€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
7.2€
Submit
We welcome feature-length documentary films that are over 60 minutes in length, showcasing powerful storytelling, in-depth research, and compelling real-world narratives. This category is open to documentaries across all subjects, from social issues and history to personal stories and investigative journalism. Submissions may include observational documentaries, biographical films, environmental or political investigations, and cultural explorations that offer new perspectives and meaningful insights. We seek films that inform, inspire, and engage audiences through authenticity and cinematic storytelling. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, providing a platform for exposure, recognition, and future opportunities.
Short Documentary Film
Short and Feature Films 60'<
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early30€27.6€
24.6€
03 May 25
Standard40€36.8€
32.8€
06 Sep 25
Late45€41.4€
36.9€
01 Nov 25
Extended50€46€
41€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
7.2€
Submit
We welcome short documentary films that are under 60 minutes in length, highlighting real-world stories, compelling perspectives, and thought-provoking narratives. This category is open to documentaries covering a wide range of topics, from social issues and personal journeys to historical events and cultural explorations. Submissions may include investigative pieces, biographical portraits, environmental documentaries, or non-fiction storytelling that offer fresh insights and engage audiences. We seek films that inform, inspire, and spark conversation. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, providing valuable exposure and networking opportunities.
Student Documentary Film
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early20€18.4€
16.4€
03 May 25
Standard30€27.6€
24.6€
06 Sep 25
Late35€32.2€
28.7€
01 Nov 25
Extended40€36.8€
32.8€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
5.4€
Submit
We welcome student-produced documentary films of any length, offering a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their unique perspectives and storytelling skills. This category is open to students at any level of study, encouraging fresh voices and bold, insightful filmmaking. Submissions may include social issue documentaries, investigative pieces, biographical portraits, environmental films, or cultural explorations that bring new perspectives to real-world topics. We seek films that inform, challenge, and inspire audiences. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, providing valuable exposure, feedback, and networking opportunities for the next generation of documentary filmmakers.
TV Pilot / Web Series
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early30€27.6€
24.6€
03 May 25
Standard40€36.8€
32.8€
06 Sep 25
Late45€41.4€
36.9€
01 Nov 25
Extended50€46€
41€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
7.2€
Submit
We accept TV pilots and web series episodes of any genre and length, whether drama, comedy, documentary, or experimental. Projects can be pilot episodes, standalone web series entries, or proof-of-concept films. Premier status is not required, and selected works will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, providing valuable exposure and networking opportunities.
Animation Film
Short and Feature Films >10' 200'<
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early20€18.4€
16.4€
03 May 25
Standard30€27.6€
24.6€
06 Sep 25
Late35€32.2€
28.7€
01 Nov 25
Extended40€36.8€
32.8€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
5.4€
Submit
We welcome animated films of any style and technique. This category celebrates the artistry and creativity of animation, whether hand-drawn, stop-motion, CGI, rotoscope, or mixed media. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, offering a valuable platform for recognition, networking, and future opportunities.
Short Animation Film
Short Films 10'<
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early20€18.4€
16.4€
03 May 25
Standard25€23€
20.5€
06 Sep 25
Late30€27.6€
24.6€
01 Nov 25
Extended35€32.2€
28.7€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
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4.5€
Submit
We welcome animated short animation films, celebrating imaginative storytelling, artistic innovation, and technical excellence. This category is open to all forms of animation, including hand-drawn, stop-motion, CGI, rotoscope, and mixed media. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, offering valuable exposure and networking opportunities for emerging and established animators alike.
Student Animation Film
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early10€9.2€
8.2€
03 May 25
Standard15€13.8€
12.3€
06 Sep 25
Late20€18.4€
16.4€
01 Nov 25
Extended25€23€
20.5€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
2.7€
Submit
We welcome student-produced animated films of any length, providing a platform for emerging animators to showcase their creativity, technical skills, and storytelling abilities. This category is open to students at any level of study, encouraging fresh artistic voices and experimental approaches to animation. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential distributors, offering valuable exposure, feedback, and networking opportunities for the next generation of animators.
Music / Performance Video
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early20€18.4€
16.4€
03 May 25
Standard30€27.6€
24.6€
06 Sep 25
Late35€32.2€
28.7€
01 Nov 25
Extended40€36.8€
32.8€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
5.4€
Submit
We welcome music videos and performance videos that showcase creative visual storytelling, artistic expression, and dynamic performances. This category is open to a wide range of submissions, including music videos, live performance recordings, conceptual art pieces, and experimental audiovisual works. Premiere status is not required, and selected videos will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential collaborators, offering valuable exposure and recognition for both filmmakers and performers.
Feature Script
Script / Pitch >60p
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early30€27.6€
24.6€
03 May 25
Standard40€36.8€
32.8€
06 Sep 25
Late45€41.4€
36.9€
01 Nov 25
Extended50€46€
41€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
7.2€
Submit
We welcome feature-length scripts that are over 60 pages, providing a platform for screenwriters to showcase their storytelling abilities, character development, and narrative structure. This category is open to scripts of all genres, from drama and thriller to comedy, sci-fi, and beyond. Submissions may include original screenplays, adaptations, or collaborative works that demonstrate strong dialogue, compelling character arcs, and engaging plots. We seek scripts that captivate readers, evoke emotion, and have the potential for successful on-screen adaptation. Premiere status is not required, and selected scripts will be reviewed by industry professionals, filmmakers, and potential collaborators, offering valuable exposure and opportunities for recognition in the screenwriting community.
Short Script
Script / Pitch 60p<
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early30€27.6€
24.6€
03 May 25
Standard40€36.8€
32.8€
06 Sep 25
Late45€41.4€
36.9€
01 Nov 25
Extended50€46€
41€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
7.2€
Submit
We welcome short scripts that are under 60 pages, providing a platform for screenwriters to showcase their storytelling skills, character depth, and creative vision within a concise format. This category is open to scripts of all genres, including drama, thriller, comedy, sci-fi, horror, and experimental narratives. Submissions may include original screenplays, adaptations, or proof-of-concept scripts that demonstrate strong dialogue, compelling character arcs, and engaging storytelling within a short-form structure. We seek scripts that captivate, challenge conventions, and have the potential to translate into powerful short films. Premiere status is not required, and selected scripts will be reviewed by industry professionals, filmmakers, and potential collaborators, offering valuable exposure and opportunities for recognition in the screenwriting and filmmaking community.
Experimental Film
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early20€18.4€
16.4€
03 May 25
Standard30€27.6€
24.6€
06 Sep 25
Late35€32.2€
28.7€
01 Nov 25
Extended40€36.8€
32.8€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
5.4€
Submit
We welcome experimental films of any duration, celebrating bold, unconventional storytelling, artistic exploration, and innovative cinematic techniques. This category is open to filmmakers who challenge traditional narrative structures, visual styles, and filmmaking methods, pushing the boundaries of what cinema can be. Submissions may include abstract visual experiences, non-linear narratives, surrealist storytelling, avant-garde concepts, and films that explore unique forms of expression. Whether using mixed media, unconventional editing, sound design, or alternative film techniques. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential collaborators, offering valuable exposure for visionary filmmakers who are redefining the art of film.
AI Film
Short Films 120'<
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early20€18.4€
16.4€
03 May 25
Standard30€27.6€
24.6€
06 Sep 25
Late35€32.2€
28.7€
01 Nov 25
Extended40€36.8€
32.8€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
5.4€
Submit
We welcome AI-generated films of any duration, celebrating the fusion of technology, creativity, and cinematic storytelling. This category is open to filmmakers who use artificial intelligence as a tool for storytelling, visual creation, editing, or other aspects of the filmmaking process. Submissions may include fully AI-generated films, hybrid projects combining AI with traditional filmmaking techniques, or experimental works exploring the possibilities of machine-assisted creativity. Whether using AI for scriptwriting, animation, deep learning visuals, voice synthesis, or procedural editing, we seek films that push the boundaries of storytelling and visual artistry in this rapidly evolving medium. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential collaborators, offering valuable exposure for filmmakers pioneering the future of AI-driven cinema.
First Time Filmmaker
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 18%
Early20€18.4€
16.4€
03 May 25
Standard30€27.6€
24.6€
06 Sep 25
Late35€32.2€
28.7€
01 Nov 25
Extended40€36.8€
32.8€
10 Jan 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
10 Jan 26
Save up
5.4€
Submit
We welcome films of any duration from first-time filmmakers, providing a platform for new voices and fresh perspectives in cinema. This category is open to directors making their debut film, whether in narrative storytelling, documentary, animation, experimental, or any other genre. Submissions may include short films, feature-length projects, documentaries, or artistic explorations, reflecting unique visions, creative ambition, and emerging talent. We encourage bold storytelling, innovative approaches, and films that showcase the filmmaker’s passion, creativity, and potential. Premiere status is not required, and selected films will be screened for audiences, industry professionals, and potential collaborators, offering valuable exposure and recognition for first-time directors taking their first steps into the world of filmmaking.
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