Rules For Filmmakers
- Films must be by a writer, director, and/or producer who is a person of color (Black, African-American, Latino, Asian Native American, or Pacific Islander) AND/OR feature people of color in the cast/storyline EXCEPT for the “Student – High School” category.
- The “Student – High School” category is open to creatives of all ethnicities. Student filmmakers must submit proof of students’ status by uploading a current and valid Student ID upon submission on our FilmFreeway site or by emailing a photo of one to DiamondStateBFF@gmail.com with the film's title in the subject line. Student submissions without an accompanying ID may be disqualified at DSBFF’s sole discretion.
- We consider films in any language, from anywhere in North America. If your film is not in English, make sure it has English subtitles where necessary.
- All entries must be submitted through DSBFF’s FilmFreeway link. All fees are nonrefundable.
- Entering a submission to the festival is not a guarantee that your film will be screened at the festival.
- Feature films should be at least 40 minutes and no more than 90 minutes in length.
- Short films should be 30 minutes in length or less.
- Student films can be no longer than 20 minutes.
- All entries should have been completed after July. 1, 2021
- Notification will be by Aug. 1, 2023
- All entered films grant the Diamond State Black Film Festival a non-exclusive limited-use agreement to use selected portions of films chosen for competition and/or to use film promotional materials to promote the festival, including the rights to utilize any excerpt from any film submitted and accepted for exhibition at DSBFF for promotional purposes and/or the festival website. Filmmakers retain all rights, title and interest in their films and all intellectual property.
- Press Kit materials should be sent only upon notification of being officially selected.
- The Diamond State Black Film Festival assumes NO RESPONSIBILITY of marketing and promotion if proper press kit materials are not sent after notification as deemed in the General Rules. It is the sole responsibility of the filmmaker to send all materials listed.
- DSBFF does not accept responsibility for damage or loss of materials. Please do not send us any original copies, master copies, or the only copy you have, etc.
Deadline & Entry Fees
DSBFF is only accepting submissions through Film Freeway.
DEADLINE: JULY 1, 2023
ENTRY FEE
- Feature and shorts - $40
- Diamond - $30
- Student - $20
NOTIFICATION DATE: Aug. 1, 2023