Film Submissions

Submissions are open now! Submissions are accepted by the North Carolina Film Festival using FilmFreeway.com

Official Selections: Films that are selected for the North Carolina Film Festival will receive an “Official Selection” laurel image.

Submission Categories

Action
Films that deliver high energy, thrilling, and adrenaline pumping sequences. This can be through intense physical combat, exciting chase sequences, large scale set pieces, or other forms of high stakes, fast paced entertainment.

Animation
Films created through various animation techniques—whether traditional hand-drawn, computer-generated (CGI), stop-motion, or a combination of styles—that demonstrate innovation, storytelling prowess, and visual flair.

Comedy
Films that prioritize humor, wit, and entertainment—whether through clever dialogue, physical humor, satire, or absurd situations—to engage and delight audiences.

Documentary
Films will effectively inform, enlighten, and engage audiences through real-world stories, events, or issues. They provide an in depth, thoughtful exploration of a subject, offering a unique perspective, thorough research, and a compelling narrative that resonates with viewers.

Drama
Films that delve into serious, emotional, and often complex storytelling. They explore human experiences, relationships, and conflicts through deep, thought provoking narratives and powerful performances.

Experimental
Films that push the boundaries of traditional filmmaking techniques, exploring new forms of expression, narrative structures, and visual styles. They often challenge the norms of commercial cinema by eschewing linear plots, traditional character development, and standard genre conventions.

Horror
Films that deliver spine-chilling, intense, and memorable experiences for audiences. They effectively evoke fear, suspense, and tension while utilizing the elements of horror—whether psychological, supernatural, or visceral—to engage and captivate viewers.

Music Video or Musical
Films that recognize excellence in the visual representation of music, whether through the creative artistry of a music video or the full-scale production of a musical film. They seamlessly integrate music and visual storytelling, where the music itself is central to the narrative and emotional impact of the piece.

Romance
Films that skillfully explore love, relationships, and emotional connection. They deliver compelling, heartfelt, and engaging portrayals of romance, whether through a tender love story, a passionate affair, or a deep emotional journey between two characters.

Deadlines & Entry Fees

Opening Date

October 15, 2024

Entry
Fees

Early Bird Deadline

December 2, 2024

Standard:  $15
Gold Member:  $13

Gray Squirrel Deadline

January 2, 2025

Standard:  $20
Gold Member:  $18

Pine Deadline

February 2, 2025

Standard:  $25
Gold Member:  $22

Dogwood Deadline

March 2, 2025

Standard:  $30
Gold Member:  $27

Cardinal Deadline

April 2, 2025

Standard:  $35
Gold Member:  $31

Cinematic Deadline

May 2, 2025

Standard:  $40
Gold Member:  $36

FINAL DEADLINE

June 2, 2025

Standard:  $45
Gold Member:  $40

Deadlines & Entry Fees

Opening Date: 10/15/24

Early Bird Deadline:  12/2/24
→ Standard: $15
→ Gold Members: $13

Gray Squirrel Deadline:  1/2/25
→ Standard: $20
→ Gold Members: $18

Pine Deadline:  2/2/25
→ Standard: $25
→ Gold Members: $22

Dogwood Deadline:  3/2/25
→ Standard: $30
→ Gold Members: $27

 Cardinal Deadline:  4/2/25
→ Standard: $35
→ Gold Members: $31

Cinematic Deadline:  5/2/25
→ Standard: $40
→ Gold Members: $36

FINAL DEADLINE:  6/2/25
→ Standard: $45
→ Gold Members: $40