Rules & regulations

Submitting a film

Please provide a link to an online screener of your film using YouTube or Vimeo’s online registration form. All films will be reviewed to ensure compliance with CARU Film Festival requirements. If accepted, this screener will also be viewed by the judges.

NOTE: All entries must be submitted before the final deadline of March 31, 2024, at 11:59 pm, with no exceptions. Please do not wait until the last minute.

Only one (1) draft version of a film may be accepted before the deadline if a final cut is not available. Note that eligibility for acceptance as an official selection is based on the draft version, if provided. Submitting incomplete/draft films is not recommended.

We recommend bringing a digital copy of your film to the festival in case of any technical issues.

In addition to the judging process outlined below, the following requirements must be met for a film to qualify as in-competition:

• The filmmaker must have clearance and permission to use all copyright-protected music and any images used in the film.
• No paid commercial, theatrical, or TV releases will be accepted for competition.
• Films submitted to the CARU Film Festival must uphold the values of the festival, portraying uplifting themes and refraining from displaying offensive language, nudity, or sexually explicit scenes.
• Films must not exceed 15 minutes in length, including credits for professionals and 5 minutes for beginners.
• All films submitted must be in English, subtitled in English, or dubbed in English.
• If submitting multiple films for competition, a separate entry form must be submitted for each film.
• The filmmaker must have incorporated the given theme.
• The film submission must have some form of representation of its island or territory/conference location.

Failure to follow all instructions outlined in our submission guidelines and process may result in disqualification.