The Frame International Film Festival is awarding $1,000 USD in cash to each of three exceptional filmmakers — chosen by our panel of judges from this edition's submissions.
Every winner walks away with the same recognition — a $1,000 cash prize, an official laurel, and a place in our archive of celebrated cinema.
"For the most visionary storytelling of the edition."
"For exceptional craft, vision, and execution."
"For breakthrough work that demands attention."
Plus official laurel wreath · digital winner certificate · permanent festival archive listing
From submission to celebration — here's the path your film takes through The Frame.
Upload your project through our submission page before the deadline. Eligible categories include shorts, features, documentaries, and experimental works.
Our panel of industry judges screens every submission, evaluating storytelling, craft, originality, and emotional impact.
All filmmakers receive their results by email on the official notification date. Winners are notified personally and announced on our website and Instagram.
The three selected winners each receive $1,000 USD via secure bank transfer or PayPal within 14 days of the announcement.
Submit at the lowest entry fee. Early submissions get extra review time.
Final chance at standard submission rates before the late-bird window opens.
Last call for submissions to be eligible for the $1,000 cash prize selection.
Selected films are screened across four nights. Attendance optional but celebrated.
All filmmakers are notified by email. The three $1,000 cash prize winners are announced publicly on our website and Instagram.
Winners receive their $1,000 USD via secure bank transfer or PayPal within 14 days of announcement.
A jury of filmmakers, critics & industry professionals.
The three cash prize winners are selected by an independent panel of industry professionals, festival programmers, and critically acclaimed filmmakers. Their decision is based on a balanced evaluation of every submission.
Originality, narrative strength, and the ability to move an audience.
Cinematography, editing, sound design, and overall technical command.
A distinct directorial voice and a clear artistic point of view.
Films that linger long after the credits roll.
The cash prize is open to all submitting filmmakers worldwide. Here's what you need to know.
Filmmakers from any country are eligible to enter and win.
Shorts, features, documentaries, animation, experimental — all formats welcome.
Films must be submitted before 25 January 2026 to be eligible.
The submitter must hold the rights to the film and original work.
A valid, paid submission counts as automatic entry into the prize pool.
Student filmmakers, emerging directors, and seasoned pros are all welcome.
Final deadline closes 25 January 2026. The three winners walk away with $1,000 each.
Submit Your Film Now