
Film Submission OPEN
FILM SUBMISSION NOW OPEN
Submissions for the Russian Film Festival South Africa International are now open on FilmFreeway. The Russian Film Festival South Africa International is now accepting submissions. We cross borders with films from around the world, celebrating diverse voices and unique stories that bring us closer together. This is your chance to share your vision with audiences who love cinema that connects cultures.
FILM SUBMISSIONS ON FILMFREEWAY
FilmFreeway makes it easy to submit your films with a smooth and clear process. After submission, our panel will review every entry and select the best films, which will be screened as finalists. Then, the judges we choose, who are industry professionals, will select the award winners.


OPENING DATE & SUBMISSION FEES
Early Bird: 9 September 2025 – 31 October 2025 – $5
Regular: 1 November 2025 – 31 December 2025 – $10
Late Deadline: 1 January 2026 – 28 February 2026 – $15
ACCEPTABLE FILM FORMAT
If your film is selected, you must provide the film in DCP format, along with the trailer in MP4 and the official poster in PDF.
FILM CATEGORIES
We accept films in a variety of categories, including:

Full-length films, typically 40 minutes or longer, covering various genres such as action, drama, comedy, science fiction, and fantasy. This category includes both fiction and non-fiction.

Artistically driven films that emphasize aesthetic style, visual composition, and unique storytelling. Arthouse films must be over 40 minutes and focus on innovation and creativity in filmmaking.

Films that explore unconventional storytelling, visual techniques, or sound design. Experimental films must be over 40 minutes, pushing the boundaries of traditional cinema.

Films with a runtime of under 30 minutes, in any genre, that tell a concise, engaging, and emotionally compelling story. Short films can be fiction or non-fiction.

Films created through animation techniques, including 2D, 3D, stop-motion, or mixed media. Animated films can be short (under 40 minutes) or feature-length (over 40 minutes).

Films created primarily using artificial intelligence tools for visual, audio, or narrative elements. AI-created films can be short (under 40 minutes) or feature-length (over 40 minutes).

Non-fiction films that explore real-life stories, events, or topics. Documentaries can be short (under 40 minutes) or feature-length (over 40 minutes), depending on the subject and scope.

Promotional or branded short films specifically designed for advertising purposes. Commercials must be under 15 minutes and convey a clear concept or message.

Films focused on fashion, style, or design storytelling, creatively showcasing artistry and brand identity. Fashion films can be over or under 40 minutes and highlight creativity, visuals, and brand expression.
AWARDS
2026
AWARDS 2026
We offer recognition for outstanding films and filmmakers across multiple categories:
Best Feature Film
Best Experimental Film
Best Art House Film
Best Animation
Best Fashion Film
Best AI Film
Best Commercial Film
Best Short Film
Best Documentary
Best Screenplay
Best Actor
Best Actress
Best Director

READY TO SHOWCASE YOUR FILM TO THE WORLD?
Submit your work to the Russian Film Festival South Africa International. We accept films across a variety of categories, including feature films, short films, experimental projects, art house, animation, fashion films, AI films, and commercials. This is a unique opportunity to share your creative vision on an international platform and connect with a global community of filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts. Start preparing your film now and let your story reach audiences everywhere.
