• Short Films: up to 40 minutes (incl. credits)

• Feature Films: 41 minutes or more

• Student Films: short (≤40) or feature (41+) by currently enrolled or recent-grad Colorado students (proof required)

• Music Videos: up to 10 minutes (incl. credits); music rights/clearances required

Eligibility (all categories):

• Colorado origin (e.g., CO-based production company or filmmaker, or ≥50% principal photography in Colorado)

• Completed within the last 5 years

• Secure online screener via FilmFreeway

• Non-English works must include English subtitles

Short Films: $15 (Early) • $20 (Regular) • $25 (Late) • $30 (Extended)
Feature Films: $25 • $30 • $40 • $50
Student Films: $10 • $15 • $20 • $25
Music Videos: $12 • $15 • $20 • $25

Limited fee waivers may be available for demonstrated financial need or community partnership—please inquire.

• Screeners: FilmFreeway secure links (Vimeo/FF upload). Keep links active through Feb 2026.

• Exhibition (if selected): DCP or high-bitrate 1080p/4K .mp4 (H.264/H.265), 24 fps preferred, stereo or 5.1.

• Provide two downloadable stills (300 dpi), a trailer (optional), and a 50–120 word logline.

• Accessibility: Captions/subtitles strongly encouraged; contact us for accessibility needs.

• Submissions are reviewed by the programming team for craft, originality, and audience impact.

• Official selections receive laurels; award winners receive custom trophies and recognition.

• Programming decisions are final.

By submitting, you confirm you control or have cleared all rights (picture, music, talent, archival). Music Video entries must include proof of music permissions upon request.

• Fees are non-refundable.

• Selected filmmakers grant RGFF the right to exhibit the work during the festival and to use excerpts/stills for promotion.

• You agree to indemnify RGFF against claims arising from your film’s exhibition.

• These guidelines may be updated; the FilmFreeway listing is the current source of truth.

Email: contact@royalgorgefilmfestival.org