AREA51
UNDERGROUND FILM CONTEST
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
WINNER
BEST PICTURE
WINNER
BEST DIRECTING
NOMINEE
BEST EXPERIMENTAL
NOMINEE
BEST LOW-BUDGET FILM
NOMINEE
BEST ART DIRECTION
AREA51
UNDERGROUND FILM CONTEST
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
15.01.25
VIRTUAL FILM FESTIVAL
FILM AWARDS CONTEST
IMDB QUALIFIER
COLLABORATORS
The AREA51 Cinematic Division is tasked with the identification, evaluation, and recognition of covert cinematic operations conducted by emerging auteurs. Our primary objective is to expedite the acknowledgment of exceptional audiovisual transmissions that have yet to infiltrate mainstream channels.
AREA51
2025 UNDERGROUND FILM CONTEST
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
ACCESS 2024
FINALISTS
MAN WITH SHADOW
DIRECTED BY
EMA KUGLER
OFFICIAL SELECTION
4 WINS 8 NOMINATIONS
WINNER
BEST FEATURE FILM
WINNER
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
NOMINEE
BEST VISUAL EFFECTS
PRESENTS
The battles are epic and huge. The sets look grand and tangible, particularly the Colosseum. I can't speak to the historical accuracy of some moments in the Colosseum, but it's pretty cool to watch. Likewise, the naval battle scene is incredible and well-choreographed.
For all the action, Man With Shadow has a slightly meandering pace with lots of broody moments from the key characters. It's a bit of a slow-burn movie, it’s a worthy experimental ouvre.
★★★★★
A R E A 51 FilmFest
Santa Fe, New Mexico
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR
BEST PICTURE OF THE SEASON WINNER
OTHER COMPETITION ROUNDS
2025 AUTUMN
2025 SPRING
AREA51
UNDERGROUND FILM CONTEST
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
WINNER
BEST PICTURE
WINNER
BEST DIRECTING
WINNER
BEST LEAD ACTOR
WINNER
BEST SOUND/FILM EDITING
WINNER
BEST LOW-BUDGET FILM
PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE
DIRECTED BY
LENNART LEMMENS
OFFICIAL SELECTION
7 WINS 4 NOMINATIONS
WINNER
BEST SHORT FILM
WINNER
BEST SCREENPLAY
PRESENTS
"Please Tell Me You're Fine" is a masterclass in claustrophobic filmmaking. Director Lennart Lemmens turns a chance encounter in a festival bathroom into a pressure cooker of raw emotion when a storm forces two strangers into shared confinement. The camera work is suffocatingly intimate, getting so close to the characters you can almost feel their breath fog the lens. While some might find the pacing meditative, the psychological tension never lets up as these two beautiful, damaged souls circle
each other in their temporary prison.
★★★★★
A R E A 51 FilmFest
Santa Fe, New Mexico
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR
BEST PICTURE OF THE SEASON WINNER
RUNNER-UPS
BEST PICTURE NOMINEES
THE LAST WITNESS
DIRECTED BY
PIOTR SZKOPIAK
EVERYTHING THAT RISES
DIRECTED BY
JON CURTIS
DILLON NORTON
DESERTER
DIRECTED BY
ANTHONY VON SECK
YELLOW DOVE AFTERMATH
DIRECTED BY
RONY A. ABOVITZ
WYNONA
DIRECTED BY
SAMUEL KAPERSKI
ETIENNE BARET
CHUTE
DIRECTED BY
WEST WEBB
ROOT
DIRECTED BY
JONTY TOOSEY
TURN KEYS
DIRECTED BY
LUKE PEARSON
OLMA DJON
DIRECTED BY
VIC YAKUBOV SCHNEID
BRING HIM TO ME
DIRECTED BY
LUKE SPARKE
SAHARA: END OF TRIP
DIRECTED BY
ANTONIO RODRÍGUEZ CABAL
BEST FEATURE FILM
WINNER
· OLMA DJON (France) · Victoria Yakubov Schneid
· EINE SACHE DER PERSPEKTIVE "A MATTER OF PERSPECTIVE"
(Austria) · Gerda Leopold
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP"
(Spain) · Antonio Rodríguez Cabal
· BRING HIM TO ME (Australia) · Luke Sparke
· HAMLET WITHIN (UK) · Ken McMullen
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
​· MAMBO MAN (Cuba) ​· Mo Fini, Edesio Alejandro
NOMINEES
· THE LAST WITNESS (UK) · PIOTR SZKOPIAK
· 10FT DOWN (USA) · Alan Williams
· RADIO SILENCE (USA) · Troy Scoughton, Sr.
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE (USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· VADA INDIGO (Netherlands) · Michael Lasoff
· YOU ARE HERE (USA) · Dylan Brody
· SOWETO BLAZE (South Africa) · Brad Katzen
· ALIEN DANGER 2 WITH RAVEN VAN SLENDER (USA) · James Balsamo
· RAVEN VAN SLENDER SAVES CHRISTMAS! (USA) · James Balsamo
· PROFESSOR HACK HARDDRIVE HACKS THE UNIVERSE (USA) · Paul Jeffrey Davids
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST MEDIUM-LENGTH FILM
WINNER
· EVERYTHING THAT RISES (USA) · Jon Curtis, Dillon Norton
· DESERTER (Canada) · Anthony von Seck
· NO VACANCY (USA) · Jay Sherer, Lukas Colombo
· DUST (USA) · Howard Woolf
· BREAKING & ENTERING (USA) · Michael Hogan
· TALES OF A FADED WEST (USA) · Brenden Wedner
· PARIS IS JUST A BIG DIRTY CITY
(USA) · Alexandra Papoulias Barton, Zak Fishman
NOMINEES
· ROOT (BELGIUM) · JONTY TOOSEY
· PARTY PANDA: THE BIRTH OF A SERIAL KILLER (USA) · Uriah Herr
· BURDEN (USA) · James Nanney.Jr
· DANTE, EL PRISIONERO DE LA TORRE (Spain) · Frank Reyes
· A DEADLY CHARTER (USA) · Hank Slaughter
· WHITE MULE (USA) · Peter Dobson
· BOOMBOX (Italy) · Christian Candido
· BOOMBOX: THE GOD OF THE DANCE (Italy) · Christian Candido
· THE EVE (Italy) · Luca Machnich
· CED'S HUNTED (USA) · Cameron Evesque Davis
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST SHORT FILM
WINNER
· TURN KEYS (UK) · Luke Pearson
· MEANS TO AN END (New Zealand) · Tanya Wheeler
· LOOK TWICE (USA) · Kyle Wilson
· BLEND # 1974 (Japan) · Aki Buraikan
· RADIO TELESCOPE (USA) · Tanner Beard
· IMBROGLIO (UK) · Ian Sciacaluga
· HARD SIDE OF MIRACLES (USA) · John Fornof
NOMINEES
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (BELGIUM) · LENNART LEMMENS
· A REGULAR WEDNESDAY (Hungary) · Adrian Lungu
· BLUE MONDAY (Austria) · Petra Zoepnek
· BIG MOMMA EARTH (USA) · Jeff Kazanjian
· THE MOONMAN (China) · Xi Wenting
· IN WAITING (USA) · Jon Matthews
· THE SECOND COMING (USA) · Jack Szarabajka
· 20 WAYS (USA) · Peter M. Kershaw
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST MICRO-SHORT FILM
WINNER
· HELP (UK) · Lesley Manning
· LA MÉLODIE DES CENDRES "The Melody Of Ashes"
(Switzerland) · Jonathan Moratal
· FAHRENHEIT 2051 (France) · Hadrien Genest
· LEMONADE PARTY (USA) · Alexander Minas
· SEAT (China) · Xi Wenting
· LAST LIGHT (USA) · Shari Hamrick-Grewal
· LUPE Q AND THE GALACTIC CORN CAKE (Canada) · Javier Badillo
NOMINEES
· CHUTE (USA) · WEST WEBB
· STAR NIGHT (USA) · Zach Sung Jin Meyer
· HOPE (USA) · Jalen Anthony Jones-Haines
· MERMAIDS, BEACHES AND DREAMS (USA) · Bill E. Webb
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST EXPERIMENTAL FILM
WINNER
· EINE SACHE DER PERSPEKTIVE "A MATTER OF PERSPECTIVE"
(Austria) · Gerda Leopold
· FOUR-SIDED (USA) · Vittoria Colonna
· HAMLET WITHIN (UK) · Ken McMullen
· CACTUS (Sweden) · Emilie Nyman
· THE DAYS OF KNIGHT (USA) · John P Martinez
· SECOND GEN (USA) · Mike Madigan
· PINK CITY FILM (Germany) · Mirijam Jeremic
NOMINEES
· OLMA DJON (FRANCE) · VICTORIA YAKUBOV SCHNEID
· GABRIELLE (Russian Federation) · Aygul Abizgildina
· A POSTERIORI (UK) · Natalia Jezova
· CHERZOSO THE SILENT FILM (USA) · Tracy Ann Chapel
· TRUTH IS STRANGER THAN FICTION: A Coming Of Age Selfie Film
(USA) · Barbara Becker Holstein
· THE CORONA DIALOGUES (USA) · Dylan Brody
· BOOK OF TEON (UK) · Teon Mark Blake -Stewart
· EVERY'NPARTY...NALIVADI?!? (Italy) · Mr. Nalivadi
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST DIRECTING
WINNER
· OLMA DJON (France) · Victoria Yakubov Schneid
· ROOT (Belgium) · Jonty Toosey
· EVERYTHING THAT RISES (USA) · Jon Curtis, Dillon Norton
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP" (Spain) · Antonio Rodríguez Cabal
· DESERTER (Canada) · Anthony von Seck
· THE LAST WITNESS (UK) · Piotr Szkopiak
· TURN KEYS (UK) · Luke Pearson
· BRING HIM TO ME (Australia) · Luke Sparke
NOMINEES
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (BELGIUM) · LENNART LEMMENS
BEST EMERGING DIRECTOR
WINNER
· CHUTE (USA) · West Webb
· RADIO TELESCOPE (USA) · Tanner Beard
· THE DAYS OF KNIGHT (USA) · John P Martinez
· PARTY PANDA: THE BIRTH OF A SERIAL KILLER (USA) · Uriah Herr
· READING & OTHER VICES (USA) · Ariana Berenson
· YOU ARE HERE (USA) · Dylan Brody
· VIAGGIO: A JOURNEY (USA) · Colette Standish
NOMINEES
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP" (SPAIN) · ANTONIO RODRÍGUEZ CABAL
· GRALLOCH (USA) · Michael Ramova
· FOR THE GREATER GOOD (USA) · Michael Gavino
· FLATLINE (USA) · John Lockmer
· THE ADVENTURES OF R.I.E.B. (USA) · James Alden Miller
· NORTH BY FREAKING WEST (USA) · Christos Kotsovos
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST STUDENT FILM
WINNER
· A SUMMERTALE IN MAINE (USA) · Carson Honor
· BURDEN (USA) · James Nanney.Jr
· NOSTALMAGIA (USA) · Simon Sciacovelli
· READING & OTHER VICES (USA) · Ariana Berenson
· REQUITED (USA) · Robert Majoch
· ECM "ELECTRONIC CRIME MUSIC" (UK) · Charlotte Webb
· THE MAGICIAN (USA) · Brielle S. Carroll
· UNFULFILLED (USA) · Rodney Kimbangu
· VIAGGIO: A JOURNEY (USA) · Colette Standish
NOMINEES
· AMERICANOPHILE (ISRAEL) · OR DOTAN
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY
WINNER
· THE LAST WITNESS (UK) · Piotr Szkopiak
· CHUTE (USA) · West Webb
· OLMA DJON (France) · Victoria Yakubov Schneid
· HELP (UK) · Lesley Manning
· TURN KEYS (UK) · Luke Pearson
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP"
(Spain) · Antonio Rodríguez Cabal
· BLEND # 1974 (Japan) · Aki Buraikan
NOMINEES
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (BELGIUM) · LENNART LEMMENS
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· BIG MOMMA EARTH (USA) · Jeff Kazanjian
· BURDEN (USA) · James Nanney.Jr
· THE SECOND COMING (USA) · Jack Szarabajka
· LEMONADE PARTY (USA) · Alexander Minas
· ABNORMAL FIXATION (USA) · John Kenneth Muir
· RAVEN VAN SLENDER SAVES CHRISTMAS! (USA) · James Balsamo
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
WINNER
· DESERTER (Canada) · Anthony von Seck
· THE LAST WITNESS (UK) · Piotr Szkopiak
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (Belgium) · Lennart Lemmens
· OLMA DJON (France) · Victoria Yakubov Schneid
· EVERYTHING THAT RISES (USA) · Jon Curtis, Dillon Norton
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP" (Spain) · Antonio Rodríguez Cabal
· BRING HIM TO ME (Australia) · Luke Sparke
NOMINEES
· TURN KEYS (UK) · LUKE PEARSON
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· HEARTACHE (Spain) · Iker Karrera, Alberto D. Centeno
· WYNONA (France) · Samuel Kaperski, Etienne Baret
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· HOUSE OF SOULO (USA) · Bryen Trawick
· INTOXICATED (USA) · Karl Talbot
· BIG MOMMA EARTH (USA) · Jeff Kazanjian
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE (USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· MERMAIDS, BEACHES AND DREAMS (USA) · Bill E. Webb
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST LEAD ACTOR
WINNER
· THE LAST WITNESS (UK) · Alex Pettyfer
· OLMA DJON (France) · Aziz Beyshenaliev
· ROOT (Belgium) · Pepin Verhaeghe
· TURN KEYS (UK) · Henry Thompson
NOMINEES
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (BELGIUM) · MATHIEU CARPENTIER
BEST LEAD ACTRESS
WINNER
· THE LAST WITNESS (UK) · Talulah Riley
· MEANS TO AN END (New Zealand) · Esther Louise
· NO VACANCY (USA) · Colleen Trusler
· CARISSA TELLS IT ALL (USA) · Caitlin Burt
NOMINEES
· OLMA DJON (FRANCE) · AYSHA BERIKKIZY
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR
WINNER
· THE LAST WITNESS (UK) · Michael Gambon
· TURN KEYS (UK) · Edward Tarling
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP" (Spain) · Enrique Simón
NOMINEES
· BRING HIM TO ME (AUSTRALIA) · SAM NEILL
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
WINNER
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (Belgium) · Esther Nwanu
· OLMA DJON (France) · Natasha Mashkevich
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP" (Spain) · Maru Valdivielso
NOMINEES
· BRING HIM TO ME (AUSTRALIA) · RACHEL GRIFFITHS
BEST ENSEMBLE CAST
WINNER
· THE LAST WITNESS (UK) · Piotr Szkopiak
· OLMA DJON (France) · Victoria Yakubov Schneid
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP" (Spain) · Antonio Rodríguez Cabal
· BRING HIM TO ME (Australia) · Luke Sparke
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· PARTY PANDA: THE BIRTH OF A SERIAL KILLER (USA) · Uriah Herr
· THE SECOND COMING (USA) · Jack Szarabajka
NOMINEES
· THE EVE (ITALY) · LUCA MACHNICH
· READING & OTHER VICES (USA) · Ariana Berenson
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE (USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· ABNORMAL FIXATION (USA) · John Kenneth Muir
· THE CORONA DIALOGUES (USA) · Dylan Brody
· ALIEN DANGER 2 WITH RAVEN VAN SLENDER (USA) · James Balsamo
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST SOUND & FILM EDITING
WINNER
· OLMA DJON (France) · Victoria Yakubov Schneid
· ROOT (Belgium) · Jonty Toosey
· TURN KEYS (UK) · Luke Pearson
· AMERICANOPHILE (Israel) · Or Dotan
· LOOK TWICE (USA) · Kyle Wilson
· DESERTER (Canada) · Anthony von Seck
· BRING HIM TO ME (Australia) · Luke Sparke
NOMINEES
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (BELGIUM) · LENNART LEMMENS
· NO VACANCY (USA) · Jay Sherer, Lukas Colombo
· INACTIVE, AMERICA'S SILENT KILLER (Canada) · Karl Talbot
· BONIFACIO: FOUNDING FATHER OF BRAZIL (Brazil) · Mauro Ventura
· GREEK FIRE: DEMON SPIRIT (USA) · Dan T. Hall
· A POSTERIORI (UK) · Natalia Jezova
· BOOMBOX: THE GOD OF THE DANCE (Italy) · Christian Candido
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST VISUAL EFFECTS
WINNER
· CHUTE (USA) · West Webb
· LOOK TWICE (USA) · Kyle Wilson
· FAHRENHEIT 2051 (France) · Hadrien Genest
· YELLOW DOVE AFTERMATH (USA) · Rony A. Abovitz
· THE SECOND COMING (USA) · Jack Szarabajka
· NOSTALMAGIA (USA) · Simon Sciacovelli
· THE EVE (Italy) · Luca Machnich
· RADIO TELESCOPE (USA) · Tanner Beard
· RADIO SILENCE (USA) · Troy Scoughton, Sr.
NOMINEES
· NIGHTWISH-PERFUME OF THE TIMELESS (FINLAND) · VILLE LIPIAINEN
BEST ORIGINAL SCORE
WINNER
· BRING HIM TO ME (Australia) · Luke Sparke
· A SUMMERTALE IN MAINE (USA) · Carson Honor
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE (USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· THE EVE (Italy) · Luca Machnich
· LLM - MODELLO LINGUISTICO DIVINO (New Zealand) · Arthur Machado
· WHEN DOES FREEDOM BEGIN (USA) · Linda Genereux
NOMINEES
· LA MÉLODIE DES CENDRES "THE MELODY OF ASHES" (SWITZERLAND) · JONATHAN MORATAL
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· PLAYGROUND 2013-14 (Germany) · Erdogan Bulut
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE (USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· THE EVE (Italy) · Luca Machnich
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST ART DIRECTION
WINNER
· OLMA DJON (France) · Victoria Yakubov Schneid
· ROOT (Belgium) · Jonty Toosey
· EVERYTHING THAT RISES (USA) · Jon Curtis, Dillon Norton
· TURN KEYS (UK) · Luke Pearson
· FAHRENHEIT 2051 (France) · Hadrien Genest
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP" (Spain) · Antonio Rodríguez Cabal
· DESERTER (Canada) · Anthony von Seck
NOMINEES
· THE MOONMAN (CHINA) · XI WENTING
· BRING HIM TO ME (Australia) · Luke Sparke
· NOSTALMAGIA (USA) · Simon Sciacovelli
· NANAKOROBI "SEVEN FALLS" (USA) · Glenna Burmer, Gaby Breiter
· BONDS OF COURAGE (Czech Republic) · Helena Bernardová
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST DANCE OR POETIC FILM
WINNER
· ECHO HOMO (Germany) · Wolfgang Christoph Schmiedt
· INVISIBLE HAND (USA) · Matthew Taylor
· THE NIGHTMARE OF THE RUNNING ONES (Bulgaria) · Ivan Plamenov Kashlakov
· SHADOW WORK (USA) · Carlos Pacheco
· WATER SPIRIT (USA) · Cherie Carson
· A LONG JOURNEY (Republic of Korea) · Mira Kim
· QING QONG (Austria) · Bele Marx & Gilles Mussard
NOMINEES
· HEARTACHE (SPAIN) · IKER KARRERA, ALBERTO D. CENTENO
BEST ZERO/LOW-BUDGET FILM
WINNER
· TURN KEYS (UK) · Luke Pearson
· THE DAYS OF KNIGHT (USA) · John P Martinez
· RADIO SILENCE (USA) · Troy Scoughton, Sr.
· YOU ARE HERE (USA) · Dylan Brody
· FLATLINE (USA) · John Lockmer
· VIAGGIO: A JOURNEY (USA) · Colette Standish
· ABNORMAL FIXATION (USA) · John Kenneth Muir
NOMINEES
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (BELGIUM) · LENNART LEMMENS
· PROFESSOR HACK HARDDRIVE HACKS THE UNIVERSE
(USA) · Paul Jeffrey Davids
· THE CORONA DIALOGUES (USA) · Dylan Brody
· EVERY'NPARTY...NALIVADI?!? (Italy) · Mr. Nalivadi
· ALIEN DANGER 2 WITH RAVEN VAN SLENDER (USA) · James Balsamo
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST EXPERIMENTAL AVANT-GARDE (CULT)
WINNER
· WHITE MULE (USA) · Peter Dobson
· GREEK FIRE: DEMON SPIRIT (USA) · Dan T. Hall
· ABNORMAL FIXATION (USA) · John Kenneth Muir
· PROFESSOR HACK HARDDRIVE HACKS THE UNIVERSE (USA) · Paul Jeffrey Davids
· EVERY'NPARTY...NALIVADI?!? (Italy) · Mr. Nalivadi
· THERE IS A MOOSE (USA) · Robert Hicks
· FLATLINE (USA) · John Lockmer
· DREAMING VINCENT (Italy) · Christian Candido
NOMINEES
· PARTY PANDA: THE BIRTH OF A SERIAL KILLER (USA) · URIAH HERR
BEST INTERNATIONAL FILM
WINNER
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (Belgium) · Lennart Lemmens
· ROOT (Belgium) · Jonty Toosey
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP" (Spain) · Antonio Rodríguez Cabal
· WYNONA (France) · Samuel Kaperski, Etienne Baret
· PLAYGROUND 2013-14 (Germany) · Erdogan Bulut
· BONDS OF COURAGE (Czech Republic) · Helena Bernardová
· DREAMING VINCENT (Italy) · Christian Candido
· THE EVE (Italy) · Luca Machnich
· BOOMBOX: THE GOD OF THE DANCE (Italy) · Christian Candido
· EVERY'NPARTY...NALIVADI?!? (Italy) · Mr. Nalivadi
NOMINEES
· OLMA DJON (FRANCE) · VICTORIA YAKUBOV SCHNEID
BEST ORIGINAL CONCEPT
WINNER
· PLEASE TELL ME YOU’RE FINE (Belgium) · Lennart Lemmens
· CHUTE (USA) · West Webb
· HELP (UK) · Lesley Manning
· SAHARA: FIN DE VIAJE "END OF TRIP" (Spain) · Antonio Rodríguez Cabal
· LEMONADE PARTY (USA) · Alexander Minas
· BIG MOMMA EARTH (USA) · Jeff Kazanjian
· READING & OTHER VICES (USA) · Ariana Berenson
· WHITE MULE (USA) · Peter Dobson
· ABNORMAL FIXATION (USA) · John Kenneth Muir
· RAVEN VAN SLENDER SAVES CHRISTMAS! (USA) · James Balsamo
NOMINEES
· THE EVE (ITALY) · LUCA MACHNICH
BEST ANIMATION
WINNER
· SGT STUBBY: AN UNLIKELY HERO (Canada) · Richard Lanni
· NANAKOROBI "SEVEN FALLS" (USA) · Glenna Burmer, Gaby Breiter
· THE NIGHTMARE OF THE RUNNING ONES
(Bulgaria) · Ivan Plamenov Kashlakov
· SINA MA TINIRAU (USA) · Vilsoni Tausie Hereniko
· NOSTALMAGIA (USA) · Simon Sciacovelli
· SEULE TOD (USA) · Jim Middleton
· PLAYGROUND 2013-14 (Germany) · Erdogan Bulut
NOMINEES
· YELLOW DOVE AFTERMATH (USA) · RONY A. ABOVITZ
· MINDLESS IDIOTS (USA) · Sean Silleck
· REQUITED (USA) · Robert Majoch
· PIGASUS: THE LOST PARADISE - BATTLE FOR EVERMORE (USA) · Sean Patrick O'Reilly
· ECM "ELECTRONIC CRIME MUSIC" (UK) · Charlotte Webb
· CHOCOLATE CAKE & ICE CREAM (USA) · Steve Cowden
· ROBOT ARMADILLO (UK) · Lauren Jane Barnett
· CORIANDER & A PENNY'S WORTH OF LONESOME (USA) · Julian Grant
· THE DISASTER MITZVAH (USA) · Brandon Manuel Werwa
· SFUMATO #2: POLITICAL ASYLUM (USA) · Jim Middleton
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST FEATURE DOCUMENTARY
WINNER
· WHITE WOLVES: GHOSTS OF THE ARCTIC (Germany) · Oliver Goetzl
· IN A WHOLE NEW WAY (USA) · Jonathan Fisher
· WHEN DOES FREEDOM BEGIN (USA) · Linda Genereux
· BONIFACIO: FOUNDING FATHER OF BRAZIL (Brazil) · Mauro Ventura
· ESPERANZA: HOPE FOR OUR CITIES (USA) · James M. Ault
· POINTS OF VIEW (Italy) · Pepi Romagnoli
· FAR FROM THE NILE (USA) · Sherief Elkatsha
NOMINEES
· BIRDLIFE (ICELAND) · HEIMIR FREYR HLODVERSSIN
· NAFKOT: YEARNING (Israel) · Malka Shabtay
· INACTIVE, AMERICA'S SILENT KILLER (Canada) · Karl Talbot
· JUSTIN ZEE (USA) · Wayne Gibson
· AKWAABA THE AWAKENING (USA) · Sybil Jatta
· MUITO AMOR: JEWS AND JUDAISM IN AMAZONIA (Israel) · Malka Shabtay
​· THE WETLAND (Slovakia) ​· Dušan Davidov
· AMEN-AMEN-AMEN: A STORY OF OUR TIMES (USA) · Thomas Leo Gallagher, David Gibson
· ANYTHING YOU LOSE (USA) · Irina Vodar
· WILD ORCHID MAN: SEARCH FOR THE QUEEN OF SHEBA (USA) · Darryl Saffer
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST SHORT DOCUMENTARY
WINNER
· WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE (UK) · Genevieve Sulway
· BALI, ISLAND OF GODS AND SPIRITS (Spain) · MartinZalba
· LIA: BODY OF WORK (USA) · Susan Weiss
· MY LIFE AS A PIECE OF SPACE DEBRIS (Ireland) · Damien Donnelly
· HOUSE OF SOULO (USA) · Bryen Trawick
· MAKING OF MAKING NOTHING (Switzerland) · Barbara Erni
· INTOXICATED (USA) · Karl Talbot
NOMINEES
· TYRANNY (HUNGARY) · DAVID ADAMKO
· THE TIME IS NOW (USA) · Jason Borkland
· ART FROM THE INSIDE (USA) · Barbara Wiener
· WITH THE HIMBA AT EPUPA (Australia) · Arnold Kopff
· THIS STRANGE EVENTFUL HISTORY (UK) · Richard Slater
· DRAGONFLY MP, THE PHO MICHAEL STORY (USA) · Douglas J. Corcoran
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST ORIGINAL SCORE
WINNER
· BRING HIM TO ME (Australia) · Luke Sparke
· A SUMMERTALE IN MAINE (USA) · Carson Honor
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE (USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· THE EVE (Italy) · Luca Machnich
· LLM - MODELLO LINGUISTICO DIVINO (New Zealand) · Arthur Machado
· WHEN DOES FREEDOM BEGIN (USA) · Linda Genereux
NOMINEES
· LA MÉLODIE DES CENDRES "THE MELODY OF ASHES" (SWITZERLAND) · JONATHAN MORATAL
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· PLAYGROUND 2013-14 (Germany) · Erdogan Bulut
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE (USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· THE EVE (Italy) · Luca Machnich
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST DOCUMENTARY DIRECTING
WINNER
· WHEN DOES FREEDOM BEGIN (USA) · Linda Genereux
· LIA: BODY OF WORK (USA) · Susan Weiss
· HOUSE OF SOULO (USA) · Bryen Trawick
· INACTIVE, AMERICA'S SILENT KILLER (Canada) · Karl Talbot
· INTOXICATED (USA) · Karl Talbot
· POINTS OF VIEW (Italy) · Pepi Romagnoli
· BONIFACIO: FOUNDING FATHER OF BRAZIL (Brazil) · Mauro Ventura
NOMINEES
· WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE (UK) · GENEVIEVE SULWAY
· NAFKOT: YEARNING (Israel) · Malka Shabtay
· AMEN-AMEN-AMEN: A STORY OF OUR TIMES (USA) · Thomas Leo Gallagher, David Gibson
· MUITO AMOR: JEWS AND JUDAISM IN AMAZONIA (Israel) · Malka Shabtay
· DRAGONFLY MP, THE PHO MICHAEL STORY (USA) · Douglas J. Corcoran
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST DOCUMENTARY CINEMATOGRAPHY
WINNER
· WHEN DOES FREEDOM BEGIN (USA) · Linda Genereux
· LIA: BODY OF WORK (USA) · Susan Weiss
· HOUSE OF SOULO (USA) · Bryen Trawick
· INACTIVE, AMERICA'S SILENT KILLER (Canada) · Karl Talbot
· INTOXICATED (USA) · Karl Talbot
· POINTS OF VIEW (Italy) · Pepi Romagnoli
· BONIFACIO: FOUNDING FATHER OF BRAZIL (Brazil) · Mauro Ventura
NOMINEES
· WHITE WOLVES: GHOSTS OF THE ARCTIC (GERMANY) · OLIVER GOETZL
· NAFKOT: YEARNING (Israel) · Malka Shabtay
· AMEN-AMEN-AMEN: A STORY OF OUR TIMES (USA) · Thomas Leo Gallagher, David Gibson
· MUITO AMOR: JEWS AND JUDAISM IN AMAZONIA (Israel) · Malka Shabtay
· DRAGONFLY MP, THE PHO MICHAEL STORY (USA) · Douglas J. Corcoran
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST DOCUMENTARY PRODUCTION
WINNER
· WHEN DOES FREEDOM BEGIN (USA) · Linda Genereux
· LIA: BODY OF WORK (USA) · Susan Weiss
· HOUSE OF SOULO (USA) · Bryen Trawick
· INACTIVE, AMERICA'S SILENT KILLER (Canada) · Karl Talbot
· INTOXICATED (USA) · Karl Talbot
· POINTS OF VIEW (Italy) · Pepi Romagnoli
· BONIFACIO: FOUNDING FATHER OF BRAZIL (Brazil) · Mauro Ventura
NOMINEES
· WHITE WOLVES: GHOSTS OF THE ARCTIC (GERMANY) · OLIVER GOETZL
· NAFKOT: YEARNING (Israel) · Malka Shabtay
· AMEN-AMEN-AMEN: A STORY OF OUR TIMES (USA) · Thomas Leo Gallagher, David Gibson
· MUITO AMOR: JEWS AND JUDAISM IN AMAZONIA (Israel) · Malka Shabtay
· DRAGONFLY MP, THE PHO MICHAEL STORY (USA) · Douglas J. Corcoran
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST ORIGINAL SCORE
WINNER
· BRING HIM TO ME (Australia) · Luke Sparke
· A SUMMERTALE IN MAINE (USA) · Carson Honor
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE (USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· THE EVE (Italy) · Luca Machnich
· LLM - MODELLO LINGUISTICO DIVINO (New Zealand) · Arthur Machado
· WHEN DOES FREEDOM BEGIN (USA) · Linda Genereux
NOMINEES
· LA MÉLODIE DES CENDRES "THE MELODY OF ASHES" (SWITZERLAND) · JONATHAN MORATAL
· ABILENE (USA) · John Cash Carpenter
· PLAYGROUND 2013-14 (Germany) · Erdogan Bulut
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE (USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· THE EVE (Italy) · Luca Machnich
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST NEW MEDIA &/OR EPISODIC SERIES
WINNER
· CARISSA TELLS IT ALL (USA) · Mike Madigan
· READING & OTHER VICES (USA) · Ariana Berenson
· DREAMING VINCENT (Italy) · Christian Candido
· BONDS OF COURAGE (Czech Republic) · Helena Bernardová
· THE ALLIANCE 2: THE HUNT FOR BREEZE FILM TRAILER
(USA) · Robert Butler Jr
· A LONG JOURNEY (Republic of Korea) · Mira Kim
· ABNORMAL FIXATION (USA) · John Kenneth Muir
NOMINEES
· LLM - MODELLO LINGUISTICO DIVINO (NEW ZEALAND) · ARTHUR MACHADO
· FROTHIN AT THE BOO TAY (USA) · Maurice Dwayne Smith
· VOICES IN MY WORLD (USA) · Maurice Dwayne Smith
· WELCOME TO THE WHIMSICAL DESERT! (GOING SOLO) (USA) · Heidi Elisabeth Appe
· BAT DIARY (Italy) · Silvano Plank
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST ORIGINAL SONG & MUSIC VIDEO
WINNER
· LLM - MODELLO LINGUISTICO DIVINO (New Zealand) · Arthur Machado
· NIGHTWISH-PERFUME OF THE TIMELESS (Finland) · Ville Lipiainen
· DANGER (USA) · Ned Stresen-Reuter
NOMINEES
· WYNONA (FRANCE) · SAMUEL KAPERSKI, ETIENNE BARET
· LA VILLA (USA) · Bill E. Webb
· WINO-STRUT & FRIENDS 'ANGEL THAT AIN'T SENT FROM ABOVE' (USA) · Robert Cook
· THERE IS A MOOSE (USA) · Robert Hicks
· WE ARE ARTISTS (USA) · Lady Beaver
· ROCKIN IN THE CITY (USA) · Todd Barrow, Brian DePalma
· BURN (USA) · Gregory L. Hines
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST FEATURE SCREENPLAY
WINNER
· ANATOMY OF A TOWN (USA) · Patricia Fox
· BAD LOVE STRIKES (USA) · Kevin Schewe
· PUNCTURED (USA) · Shari Hamrick-Grewal
· SACAJAWEA, THE WINDCATCHER (USA) · Jane Fitzpatrick
· RUNNING (USA) · Sean Chandler
· KING OF BLADES (USA) · Paul Hikari
· GŒD (USA) · Monte Albers de Leon
NOMINEES
· THE ICE KING (USA) · NESTOR VILLALOBOS
· SACRED SUN (UK) · Michael Louis Gould
· QUERIDA ESZTER "DEAR ESZTER" (Chile) · Alex Balassa,
Marisol Mijares, Alejandro Orozco, Mario Pacheco Szekely
· GIRL ON FIRE (USA) · Kimberly Fisher
· OUT OF BODY (USA) · Michael William Hogan
· A SENSE OF SECURITY (UK) · Peter Gartner
· NON-LOCAL: THE "SALIVA" REWORK (USA) · Kameron Jenkins
· D,W,A (USA) · Bruce Smith
· DIARY AFTER DEATH (USA) · Nadine Weathersby
SEMI-FINALISTS
BEST SHORT SCREENPLAY
WINNER
· THE GREY ROOM (UK) · Daniel De'Ath
· REVELATION (Switzerland) · Carmen Pfammatter
· REFRACTIONS (USA) · Paula Rossman
· LO SIENTO (USA) · Stephen Huffman, Mark Braun
NOMINEES
· A VERY GOOD MAN (USA) · MICHAEL GAVINO
BEST TV SCRIPT
WINNER
· 1000: THE SWORD IN THE STONE (Italy) · Guido Giordano
· AT THE FLASH (USA) · Sean Chandler
· UNCLE PAYBACK (Switzerland) · Daniel Bodenmann
· BOOMBOX (Italy) · Christian Candido
NOMINEES
· LAFAYETTE: DEATH OF A REVOLUTION (USA) · MARSHALL FERRIN
OUTSTANDING DRAMATIC ACHIEVEMENT
WINNER
· ANATOMY OF A TOWN (USA) · Patricia Fox
· YOU WANT IT DARKER (Belgium) · Sandra J. Paul
· THE COLOR OF THE EVENING SKY (USA) · Linda Kampley
· EDWARD CARDINALD: THE GHOST AT BLACK MOOR CASTLE
(UK) · Elyssa Catalfano
· GŒD (USA) · Monte Albers de Leon
· BATTLE CRIES (USA) · Karen Walker
· LION MOUNTAIN (USA) · Eric P. Granger
NOMINEES
· THE ICE KING (USA) · NESTOR VILLALOBOS
· MOUNT MORA (USA) · Eric Gerard Sollars, Michael David Sollars, Geoffrey Durand Sollars
· LET THE WILD GRASSES GROW (USA) · Kase Johnstun, Trevor Baierl
· THE MOUNTAIN (UK) · Ruth Finnegan
· LUCKY IN LONG ISLAND (USA) · Michelle Taubman
· BAD LOVE TIGERS (USA) · Kevin Schewe
· SCRAMBLE! (New Zealand) · Laurence Ostrowsky
· CALLED BACK (USA) · Matt Hagemann
SEMI-FINALISTS
OUTSTANDING ORIGINAL CONCEPT
WINNER
· POSSUM KINGDOM (USA) · Hank Slaughter
· THE SECOND COMING (USA) · Michael William Hogan
· HUNGER (USA) · Michael William Hogan
· THE LAST PEACE (Switzerland) · Daniel Bodenmann
· ORPHEUS WITH HIS LYRE (UK) · Ruth Finnegan
· BAD LOVE STRIKES (USA) · Kevin Schewe
NOMINEES
· ALTA CALIFORNIA (USA) · LYNN ELLIOTT
· CHATEAU DE TAROT (USA) · Reid Barwick
· TEXAS TOM (USA) · Wayne Gibson
· STARSHIP SAKIRA (USA) · Leslie Brockett
· A BUSHRANGER'S CURSE (Australia) · Jeffrey Milne
· THE MERRY MERCHANT OF DEATH (USA) · Terry Ayrault
· RACE WARS: A EUGENICS EXPERIMENT (USA) · Eric Faulkner
· BAD LOVE TIGERS (USA) · Kevin Schewe
SEMI-FINALISTS
ACCESS
INTELLIGENCE
AREA51
UNDERGROUND FILM CONTEST
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
15.01.25
VIRTUAL FILM FESTIVAL
FILM AWARDS CONTEST
IMDB QUALIFIER
COLLABORATORS
The AREA51 Cinematic Division is tasked with the identification, evaluation, and recognition of covert cinematic operations conducted by emerging auteurs. Our primary objective is to expedite the acknowledgment of exceptional audiovisual transmissions that have yet to infiltrate mainstream channels.
AREA51
2025 UNDERGROUND FILM CONTEST
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
JURY PANEL
Dylan Taylor is a seasoned Music Producer and Sound Designer with a proven track record of creating compelling compositions and enhancing audio quality within the music industry. His expertise in trend analysis and creative direction in sound makes him an invaluable asset to our film festival jury.
DYLAN TAYLOR
FILM SOUNDTRACK SPECIALIST
Gianna Brown is an acclaimed screenwriter and director with a MFA in Screenwriting, known for her dynamic storytelling and leadership in producing original content. Her extensive experience in mentoring and media production education makes her a profound contributor to our film festival jury.
GIANNA BROWN
VISIONARY SCREENWRITER & DIRECTOR
Danielle Shapira stands out as a transformative video director and creative producer, celebrated for her compelling video content for top-tier brands and her creative leadership at Condé Nast. Her expertise in brand storytelling and talent for pioneering successful marketing campaigns make her an asset to our film festival jury.
DANIELLE SHAPIRA
INNOVATIVE VIDEO DIRECTOR
Drew Rosenfeld shines as an accomplished Exec VP and multi-media specialist with a prolific 25-year career in entertainment, covering TV, film, and music, known for steering innovative content development across multiple platforms. His adept leadership in global broadcast licensing and production, coupled with a rich background in music, positions him as an industry luminary.
DREW ROSENFELD
STRATEGIC EXEC VP & MULTI-MEDIA MAESTRO
Michael B. Sieve is an acclaimed screenwriter with a talent for crafting impactful narratives across genres, garnering over 90 film writing awards. His expertise in script consultation and development is sought after in the film industry, reflecting a career highlighted by compelling storytelling and recognition from top film entities.
M B SIEVE
SCREENPLAY VIRTUOSO & STORY CONSULTANT
Jason Young is a distinguished Director of Photography and Photographer, known for his skill in creating powerful visual narratives. His work, marked by a blend of technical mastery and creative insight, spans from leading roles at top firms to a dynamic freelance career, solidifying his status as a cinematic innovator.
JASON YOUNG
VISIONARY DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Grant Livingstone, esteemed Creative Director, excels in delivering impactful storytelling and visual narratives. Educated at Seattle Central College, his work with META, Contrast Films, and clients like Nordstrom and Vogue showcases his ability to direct with a compelling creative vision.
GRANT LIVINGSTONE
VISIONARY CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Farrell Roth is an Emmy-nominated TV Field Producer and Unscripted Director with significant experience at E! News and roles on shows like "Entertainment Tonight" and "Extra." As a Film Podcaster and On-Camera Host, she shines in team management and celebrity interviews. Based in Los Angeles, her work spans the Tribeca Film Festival to MTV, highlighting her media industry impact.
FARRELL ROTH
EMMY-NOMINATED TV PRODUCTION MAESTRO
The AREA51 Cinematic Division is tasked with the identification, evaluation, and recognition of covert cinematic operations conducted by emerging auteurs. Our primary objective is to expedite the acknowledgment of exceptional audiovisual transmissions that have yet to infiltrate mainstream channels.
The AREA51 review board seeks audiovisual communications and narrative blueprints that exhibit the following characteristics:
Deployment of avant-garde storytelling methodologies
Evidence of visionary cognitive processes
Exploration of restricted thematic terrain
Novel interpretations of societal phenomena
Resourceful utilization of limited tactical assets
Our panel of experts prioritizes originality, psychological impact, and the capacity to instigate cognitive recalibration among viewers. We encourage the submission of materials deemed too unconventional for standard evaluation protocols.
NOTE: THIS COMMUNICATION IS CONSIDERED
UN-CLASSIFIED AND APPROVED FOR PUBLIC DISSEMINATION.
DISTRIBUTION TO ALL POTENTIAL OPERATIVES IS ENCOURAGED.
The designation "AREA51" was selected due to its association with clandestine innovations and classified information. Much like its namesake, this division serves as a secure facility for ideas and techniques that challenge established norms in visual storytelling.
AREA51 Cinematic Division issues the following directives to all field operatives:
Engage in high-risk, high-reward creative maneuvers
Infiltrate restricted subject matters and illuminate obscured truths
Conduct experiments with narrative architecture and visual cryptography
Produce artifacts capable of reconfiguring public consciousness
Expand the parameters of cinematic possibility
Be advised: AREA51 is not merely a testing ground. It is a top-secret initiative designed to revolutionize the landscape of independent cinema.
ABOUT
AWARDS LIST
LIVE-ACTION NARRATIVE
FILM - MAIN COMPETITION:
Best Picture
Best Feature Film
Best Film (Medium-Length)
Best Short Film
Best Micro-Short Film
Best Student Film
Best Experimental Film
Best Dance or Poetic Film
Best Queer Film
Best Zero/Low-Budget Film
TECHNICAL AWARDS or INDIVIDUAL MERIT:
Best Directing
Emerging Filmmaker Award
Best Directorial Debut
Best Young Filmmaker (16-25)
Best Original Screenplay
Best Original Concept
Best Cinematography
Best Lead Actor
Best Lead Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Best Supporting Actress
Best Ensemble Cast
Best Editing
Best Sound Design
Best CGI & Visual Effects
Best Original Score
Best Art Direction
Best Makeup & SFX
NARRATIVE FILM - GENRE COMPETITION:
Best Drama
Best Comedy or Musical
Best Action, Sci-Fi or Fantasy
Best Horror or Thriller
ANIMATION & VFX COMPETITION:
Best Animated Film
Best Character Design
Best Created Environment
Best Original Animation Style
Best 2D Animation
Best Student Animation
Best CGI & Visual Effects
DOCUMENTARY FILM COMPETITION:
Best Feature Documentary
Best Short Documentary
Best Student Documentary
Best Documentary Directing
Best Documentary Cinematography
Best Documentary Editing & Sound
Best Nature Documentary
TV & NEW MEDIA COMPETITION:
Best Series or Pilot Episode
Best New Media
Best Filmed Theatre
Best Fashion Film
Best Fan Film
Best Mobile Film
Best Commercial/Ad Film
Best Original Podcast
Best Film Trailer
Best Film Poster
MUSIC VIDEO COMPETITION:
Best Music Video
Best Experimental Music Video
Best Original Song
Best Music Video or Commercial Directing
Best MV or Commercial Cinematography
Best Music Video Artist
Best Music Video Montage Editing
Best Music Video or Commercial Scenography
SCREENPLAY COMPETITION (WRITTEN/UNPRODUCED):
Best Feature Screenplay
Best Short Screenplay
Best TV Script
Best Drama
Best Queer
Best Romantic Drama
Best Comedy or Musical
Best Family Adventure
Best Action Drama
Best Horror
Best Psychological Thriller
Best Semi-Professional Screenplay
RULES FOR COMPETING
Why Compete at AREA51 FilmFest?
Competing at the AREA51 FilmFest offers numerous benefits to filmmakers and artists aspiring to make their mark in the industry:
1. Regular Competitions:
- With three contests held annually, AREA51 provides continual opportunities for new talent to emerge and be recognized, fostering a dynamic environment that celebrates cinematic innovations all year round.
2. IMDb Qualifier:
- As an IMDb-qualifier, our contest ensures that winners and selected entrants gain valuable exposure and credibility, which are critical for advancing careers in the competitive film industry. This affiliation not only enhances your project's visibility but also significantly boosts your professional profile.
3. Reputation and Prestige:
- The laurels awarded by AREA51 are recognized symbols of quality and achievement within the international film community. Winning or being nominated at AREA51 can substantially enhance the reputation of the filmmakers and the films themselves, marking them as distinguished entries in the global cinematic landscape.
4. Career Advancement:
- Achievements at AREA51 can profoundly impact your professional trajectory. These accolades open doors to further opportunities in filmmaking.
6. Online Festival Dynamic:
- AREA51 is an exclusively online film contest that operates with a unique structure featuring three classification periods throughout the year. This model allows for multiple entries and flexible participation, culminating in a Results Day where category winners are announced, celebrating a wide array of filmmaking excellence.
7. Secure and Exclusive Streaming Opportunity:
- While AREA51 does not typically stream films, selected Best Picture winners may be showcased during a designated short window, under strict conditions to ensure copyright integrity and secure viewing, which includes encryption and robust anti-piracy measures such as geoblocking and digital rights management (DRM).
By competing at AREA51, you not only strive to excel in a competitive environment but also gain the opportunity to present your work on a prestigious, international platform that honors the art of film and the profound impact of visual storytelling.
Additional Guidelines and Policies...
1. Use of Stills and Clip Fragments:
- You allow us to use stills and short clips from your projects on our digital platforms for promotional, non-commercial, and educational purposes, affirming that all necessary rights are cleared worldwide.
2. Downloading for Jury Review:
- Permission is granted to the Festival Director and Jury to download your projects to assist with offline viewing and adjudication, underlining the festival's commitment to comprehensive and fair evaluation.
3. No Refunds and Commitment to Sportsmanship:
- Entry fees are non-refundable, and participants are expected to uphold respect and sportsmanship throughout the competition process.
4. Singular Fee, Multiple Categories:
- A one-time fee ensures your project is evaluated across all applicable festival categories, maximizing your potential for recognition and awards.
5. Submission Integrity and Restrictions:
- Each submission must adhere to the festival's guidelines, and once a project has been submitted to a particular edition, it cannot be re- submitted in subsequent editions unless significantly altered.
6. Opt-Out and Privacy Policy:
- Entrants agree to be added to our mailing list for further communication and promotion, you agree for our partner festivals to send you direct discount offers and promotions, with rights reserved to unsubscribe or opt-out at any time, ensuring respect for participant privacy and data protection.
These terms and conditions underscore AREA51 FilmFest's dedication to fairness, integrity, and the celebration of cinematic artistry, providing a robust platform for filmmakers globally to showcase their creative prowess.
INSCRIBE YOUR PROJECT AND COMPETE
©2023 AREA51 FilmFest