ELIGIBILITY
The Ann Arbor Film Festival is open to experimental films as well as films that demonstrate a high regard for the moving image as an experimental art form, no matter the genre. Work previously submitted may not be re-entered. Short and feature-length entries are accepted. Short films run no longer than 59 minutes. Feature films run 60 minutes or more. Entries not in English should have English subtitles. Works in progress may be submitted, but are juried in the same pool as all other submissions. Later versions of a film may be selected at the programmer's discretion. Work must be contemporary (completed within the last three years). Entry fees are per film entered, and must accompany the entry form for confirmation. Make checks and money orders payable to the Ann Arbor Film Festival. Entry fees are
non-refundable.
FESTIVAL AWARDS
The AAFF offers approximately $22,500 in both cash and in-kind awards each year. In addition to conferring prestige and financial support, an AAFF award can also qualify filmmakers for an Oscar® nomination by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in the short film category. Qualifying AAFF awards include the Ken Burns Award for Best of the Festival, the Chris Frayne Award for Best Animated Film, the Lawrence Kasdan Award for Best Narrative, and Best Experimental Film. To find out which films were recognized with festival awards at the 58th AAFF in 2020, click here.
FEES & DEADLINES
FEATURES (60 min and longer)
Early-bird deadline (July 1-July 31, 2020) - $40 USD
Regular deadline (August 1-August 31, 2020) - $55 USD
Late deadline (September 1-September 30, 2020) - $70 USD
SHORTS (59 min and shorter)
Early-bird deadline (July 1-July 31, 2020) - $30 USD
Regular deadline (August 1-August 31, 2020) - $45 USD
Late deadline (September 1-September 30, 2020) - $60 USD
FORMAT
Entries are accepted via secure online screening and 16mm only. We do not accept DVD, VHS or video data files for screening purposes. If you would like the festival to preview a 16mm print of your film, please contact the festival directly at to make arrangements.