Rules & Terms

Submission Guidelines

Eligibility
  • Short films up to 30 minutes (including credits).
  • All languages welcome — non-English films must include English subtitles.
  • Student and first-time filmmaker categories require proof of status.
Selection & Judging
  • The international competition jury selects winners through private screenings.
  • Judging is based on storytelling, originality, direction and craft.
  • All decisions of the jury are final.
Rights & Screening
  • The applicant must own or clear all rights to the film.
  • By submitting, you grant Tokyo ShortFest permission to screen your film in our exclusive online screenings.
  • Excerpts, stills and the trailer may be used for promotional purposes.
Fees & Deadlines
  • Submission fees vary by category and deadline — see current rates on our FilmFreeway page.
  • Reduced rates for student films and first-time filmmakers.
  • Submission fees are non-refundable.

Ready to Share Your Story with Tokyo?

Submissions are open now on FilmFreeway. Join hundreds of independent filmmakers bringing their stories to the world.

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