Deadline: January 23, 2006

"Technology has been creating a lot of exciting opportunities and new delivery systems. We have organizations like Media That Matters to find new materials, new voices, and new points of view." - Tim Robbins

If a film is made and no one sees it, does it make an impact? Submit your film to Media That Matters and be heard.

If you want to make an impact, this is the festival for you - Media That Matters will bring your social-issue short to audiences around the world! Sixteen winners get an international distribution deal - DVD, broadcast, web streaming and hundreds of community screenings. Plus many films get cash awards. Media That Matters launches in NYC with a premiere and awards ceremony (previous presenters have included Tim Robbins, Chuck D and David Cross). The shorts are distributed to educators with a Teacher's Guide and integrated into activist campaigns all year long.

• The shorter the better! 8 minutes max (if your piece is too long, consider submitting a shorter cut or a stand alone excerpt)
• All genres welcome: Documentary, Narrative, Experimental, Comedy, Animation, PSA, Digital Story, Music Video, Game, Interactive Online Project, Youth Media
• Seeking films on any social or environmental issue – we are particularly interested in submissions on Fair Use, Response to Katrina, Elections and Democracy, Food Politics, Criminal Justice, LGBT Rights, Youth Activism, Health Advocacy, Racial Justice, Human Rights and HIV/AIDS
• Youth-produced projects welcome!
• All music and other rights must be cleared and film must be available for home video, educational, broadcast and theatrical distribution
• Submissions must be on NTSC DVD (preferred) or VHS – no PAL or mini-DV entries will be considered
• Limit 2 submissions per filmmaker, youth and community media centers may submit up to 5 pieces
• Cash awards of $1,000 will be distributed to most films
• Submission fee: $25 / Free for students
• Deadline: January 23, 2006

The Media That Matters Film Festival is a project of Arts Engine, Inc, a 501(c)(3) organization that supports, produces, and distributes independent media of consequence and promotes the use of independent media by advocates, educators and the general public. By fostering the production and use of independent film, video and new media, Arts Engine connects media makers and active audiences in order to spur critical consideration of pressing social issues.

Meet the Jury

Submit via MediaRights or