Most films are submitted through PAIFF’s official FilmFreeway page during the open call for entries. However, we also accept films through FestHome.

PAIFF accepts a wide range of independent work including narrative films, documentaries, short films, screenplays, music videos, student films, experimental work, and other eligible categories listed on FilmFreeway and FestHome.

We only charge ONE submission fee per project. Typical submission fees start at $5 and top out around $80 depending on the length, type, and when the project is submitted. The sooner you enter, the more affordable the fees.

Yes. Each project must be submitted separately.

Yes, but this depends on the category. Please review the current rules and category descriptions on FilmFreeway.

Selected filmmakers will be contacted with next steps regarding screening materials, promotional assets, and festival participation.

Attendance is encouraged but not always required. Some prizes, stipends, or special opportunities may require in-person presence. Filmmakers or associated entourage attending the festival will have the most impact interacting with our audience and our judges. We encourage Q&A sessions and have seen the positive outcome they have on the voting process. If unable to attend, a brief video introduction or message to the festival audience is strongly encouraged. Filmmakers and their entourage who plan to attend will also need to purchase festival passes (but we have special discounted rates for official selections and industry personnel).

No. PAIFF does NOT pay, or reimburse for travel or lodging expenses. However, there are stipend opportunities available for Best Screenplay and Best Vertical Awards, and participating panel or workshop filmmakers.

Yes, we consider fee waivers on a case by case basis. Please write us if you would like to request a waiver. Be patient as their is usually on a long waiting list each season and we only approve a select few of them.

Yes, but it makes it harder for us to promote your work if you are selected. You risk your work being ignored or not taken seriously by members of our judges committee thus lowering your chances of selection.

If your screenplay or script is selected, we highly recommend you present a short 5 minute visual presentation to be played at the event but it is not required. If you plan to attend in person, be prepared for a Q&A following your presentation. Our audience, industry personnel, and committee judges at the event will be making the final award decisions on the day of the awards ceremony so your final presentation will have the most impact at the event.

PAIFF considers all submissions under 60 minutes to be short films and all entries 60 minutes and over to be features.

No. 5 minutes per project submission is the maximum time allowed for vertical submissions. It can be a several episodes or just one – or a combination of first, middle, and last or any sequence – but must not exceed 5 minutes per submission.