Submission Requirements

• Deadline: December 15, 2027

• Include all participant names, supporters, funders, and filming locations

• Limit: 1-2 submissions per filmmaker/team

• Our festival is rooted in community storytelling and celebrates films created at a grassroots level. To keep the competition fair, only films made without outside funding or professional production services are eligible for prizes. However, we warmly welcome all films—funded or not—for non-competitive screening as part of the showcase.

• Filmmakers must reside within 100 km radius of Sun Peaks

Content Guidelines

• Must be suitable for a general audience (PG)

• No hate speech, discrimination, or explicit content

• Culturally respectful storytelling required

• Indigenous themes must be approached respectfully and with permission where needed

Originality & Permissions

• Must be an original film

• No recycled footage unless you own it

• AI tools may be used if disclosed and not replacing core creative work

• All actors, locations, and collaborators must provide permission

• By submitting, filmmakers grant permission for screening and promotional use

Helpful Tips

• Outline your story in bullet points before filming

• Use a storyboard if you're a visual planner

• Collaborate with other local creatives

• Reuse your own archived footage if it fits

• “Done is better than perfect”—start early

Judging Criteria

The judging panel will score submissions on the following criteria:

• Storytelling clarity and impact

• Creativity and originality

• Cinematography and sound quality

• Effective use of the theme (60-second category)

• Emotional resonance

A fast, creative challenge designed to test your storytelling skills within one minute.

Film Length

• Maximum: 60 seconds (including titles and credits)

• Minimum: 45 seconds

Theme

Films must interpret the annual theme: Connection

Technical Specs

• Format: MP4 or MOV

• Resolution: 1080p preferred (720p minimum)

• Orientation: Landscape (16:9) unless otherwise approved

• Clear audio with no copyrighted music unless you have rights

Prizes
Prizes and recognition will be awarded in the following categories:

• Best Overall Film

• Youth Award (8-16yr)

• Audience Choice Award

Overview
Create a short film between 2 and 15 minutes on any topic, from any place. Your film does not have to be about Sun Peaks. What matters most is story—your unique take on a moment, a person, an idea, or an experience.

Story Guidelines

• Capture our interest with a strong concept.

• Pace your story to keep us engaged.

• Deliver a clear, meaningful ending.

• Consider showcasing the beauty of the world around you—Sun Peaks or beyond.

Technical Requirements

• Format: Horizontal, 1080p minimum

• Use any equipment: phones, GoPros, DSLRs, mirrorless, or cine cameras

• Focus on a clean, easy-to-watch edit rather than fancy gear.

• Clear audio with no copyrighted music unless you have rights

Prizes:
Prizes and recognition will be awarded in the following categories:

• Best Overall Film

• Audience Choice Award