Rules
Purpose and Objectives
The Salem Short Film Festival aims to discover and showcase the most creative, artistic and unique short films from around the world, and to provide an international platform for filmmakers to exchange ideas and showcase their talents. Through this event, we encourage the diversified development of film art, promote understanding and respect between cultures, and inspire young filmmakers to continue to explore and innovate.
Eligibility
Format of Works: Only short films are accepted for entry, with a duration of no more than 45 minutes (including the opening and ending credits). Including but not limited to feature films, documentaries, experimental films, animations, etc.
Year of Production: The entries must be completed within the last two years (the specific year is subject to the announcement of the current film festival).
Originality: All entries must be original and have not won major awards at other film festivals or platforms (please refer to the specific definition of the current film festival rules). Participants must ensure that they have full intellectual property rights to their works and are not involved in any copyright disputes.
Language and Subtitles: Non-English dialogues must be accompanied by English subtitles. If the original film has English subtitles, subtitles in other major languages other than Chinese or English must be provided for screening.
Submission method: Submit the link and necessary information of the work through the official online platform. Physical media such as DVDs and Blu-ray discs are not accepted by mail.
Registration process
Register an account: Register as a member on the official website of the film festival and fill in personal information.
Submit works: Upload the link of the work, fill in the work introduction, director and main creative personnel information as required.
Payment fee (if applicable): Some film festivals may require payment of the entry fee. Please refer to the official website announcement for the specific amount and payment method.
Confirm registration: After receiving the official confirmation email, the registration is deemed successful.
Selection criteria
Creativity and originality: The uniqueness and innovation of the work in terms of conception, narrative, visual expression, etc.
Technical and production quality: Professional level of production level such as photography, editing, sound effects, and visual effects.
Theme and depth: Whether the theme explored in the work is profound and whether it can resonate or think with the audience.
Overall presentation: The overall rhythm of the work, narrative fluency, emotional expression, etc.
Other matters needing attention
Copyright ownership: The winning works must authorize the film festival for non-commercial screening, publicity and archiving.
Award Ceremony: Winners are responsible for their own travel expenses to attend the award ceremony (if invited).
Notification method: All award notifications will be sent via email to the email address provided by the contestants when they registered.
Final interpretation: The right to interpret these rules belongs to the Salem Short Film Festival Organizing Committee. If you have any questions, please contact us through the official website.
