Please note that all information currently given on these pages refers to the Berlinale 2010 and is given subject to alteration in order to offer a general insight into film entry procedures.

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.

1. Fiction, documentary, experimental and animation films may be submitted.
2. Formats eligible for screening are 16mm, 35mm, HDCAM, Digital Betacam and Betacam SP.
3. Films must not exceed 30 minutes in length (including credits).
4. Films must have been completed in the 12 months preceding the festival
5. Films must not have been screened at any festival or similar public event outside their country of origin prior to to the Berlinale. Screening at a national festival or event with national focus in the country of origin does not preclude a film from selection.
6. Films must not have been released commercially outside their country of origin. Films must not have been shown on television or in the Internet.
7. German films must not have been screened publicly prior to the Berlinale.

The festival director invites films in agreement with the curator of the Berlinale Shorts section.

All selected films compete for the Golden Bear in the competition. Film prints are preferred for selection screenings. Video cassettes and DVDs can also be accepted.

The festival director reserves the right to settle any cases not covered in the regulations.

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.

The international jury comprises a minimum of three German and foreign 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 of the director 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.

The international jury is obliged to award the following prizes to short films in competition:

Only one prize may be awarded ex aequo.

The jury also nominates both the Prix EFA for the best European short film as well as the DAAD Short Film Prize.

 

For any further questions please consult the General Regulations of the Berlin International Film Festival.

Download the Berlinale Shorts Regulations Form 2010, PDF (52 KB)