1 – Aims
The short film as an art form and springboard for young talent is an established tradition at the Berlinale and enjoys high priority. This section shows all genres and types of short films; it is a showcase for the kind of new directions in filmmaking that often make their first appearance in short films. In order to give this special format the attention it deserves, no formal restrictions are imposed. Following the screenings, discussions with the filmmakers serve to establish ties between the public and the artists and provide ample space for communication.
For short films in the section Generation, the special regulations of that section apply.
2 – Eligibility
International premieres are required. World premieres are given priority.
German films have to be world premieres.
Eligible for the Berlinale Shorts competition are fiction, documentary, experimental and animation films up to a maximum length of 30 minutes (including credits)
Accepted formats: 35mm, 16mm, Digital Betacam, Betacam SP, HDCAM, DCP upon request
Date of completion: Within the 12 months prior to the festival
For all (except German) productions, Berlinale Shorts accepts:
- Theatrical release in the country of origin
- Participation in a national festival/national focus in the country of origin
Films may not have been broadcasted nor presented in the internet.
The festival director has the right to settle any cases not covered by the regulations.
All films have to be registered online at online film entry. The entry fee is € 50 and payment can be effected by credit card only (Visa, American Express, Mastercard) during the online submission process.
There are special conditions for film schools (please contact the programme organisation programme@berlinale.de)
3 – Selection and programming
Invitations for the films to participate in the Berlinale Shorts competition are extended by the festival director in agreement with the section’s curator.
Formats accepted for selection are film prints, HDCAM, Digital Betacam, Betacam SP, DVD, and Blu-ray (region free). For other formats please contact the section directly.
There is also the possibility to upload a short film within the online film entry process. More information can be found at infosheet upload.
All invited films participate in the competition.
4 – Versions and subtitling
All films, including German-language films, are shown in their original version with English subtitles.
The producer is required to meet the costs of subtitling.
The original version is the version shown (or which will be shown) in the country of origin.
5 – The international jury
The jury comprises a minimum of three German and international personalities.
No person involved in the production or commercial exploitation of a selected film may serve on the jury.
The festival director or an authorised representative may be present during the jury’s deliberations but does not take part in the voting.
The jury members are sworn to secrecy. The jury’s discussions and ballots are strictly confidential, even after the end of the festival.
6 – Awards
The international jury is obliged to award the following prizes to short films in competition:
- the Golden Bear for the Best Short Film
- the Jury Prize (Silver Bear)
Only one prize may be awarded ex aequo.
The jury also assigns the Berlin Short Film Nominee for the European Film Awards 2012 and the DAAD Short Film Prize.
For any further questions, please consult the General Regulations of the Berlin International Film Festival.
