Submission Guidelines

Submission Rules

1. 01

   Short films are generally considered films with a running time under 40 minutes.

2. 02

   Films in all languages are welcome. Films that are not in English or German should include subtitles in either English or German, so that they can be understood by our jury and audience.

3. 03

   Filmmakers are responsible for making sure they hold the necessary rights and permissions for their submitted work, including music, images, footage, and any third-party material.

4. 04

   By submitting a film, filmmakers allow Mannheim Arts and Film Festival to screen the film, or excerpts from it, as part of the festival and related events.

5. 05

   The festival may also use submitted stills, posters, trailers, excerpts, or other promotional materials to present and promote selected films and festival activities. While we are happy to support and highlight the work of filmmakers whenever possible, specific promotional features are not guaranteed.

6. 06

   Submission fees are non-refundable.

7. 07

   Multiple entries are welcome. A film may also be submitted to more than one category when relevant.

8. 08

   Screening dates listed on FilmFreeway are indicative and may change depending on venue availability, programme needs, and, whenever possible, the preferences or availability of the filmmakers.

9. 09

   The festival may adjust its programme, schedule, or venue arrangements when necessary. We always aim to communicate important changes clearly and respectfully, but the festival cannot be responsible for travel, accommodation, or other personal costs connected to such changes.

10. 10

    Mannheim Arts and Film Festival is a celebration of independent filmmaking and a space for creative encouragement, discovery, and artistic exchange. We aim to create a welcoming environment for filmmakers, artists, guests, and audiences.

11. 11

    Participation in the festival and its related events is at the participant's own responsibility. The festival cannot be held responsible for personal loss, damage, injury, or disappointment connected to a submission or participation in an event.

Submission Format

1. 01

   All submissions should be provided in a high-quality digital format suitable for large-screen projection, such as MP4 or MOV.

2. 02

   We do not require DCP files for submission. When a DCP is needed for a screening, we usually generate it in-house from the submitted film file.

3. 03

   Submissions with incomplete files, very low resolution, or significant technical issues may not be suitable for consideration in the programme. Whenever possible, we encourage filmmakers to make sure their files are complete and technically ready before submitting.