We typically announce official selections through FilmFreeway. If you have not received an email from FilmFreeway, please check your spam or junk folder, or log into your FilmFreeway account. Email info@sandyfest.com if the information still cannot be found.

The submitted film is final and cannot be altered. Unfortunately, our festival's submission deadlines are very strict and we cannot accommodate changes to submissions after they have been received. This policy is in place to ensure fairness and equal treatment to all filmmakers who have submitted their work to us.

Yes, we notify filmmakers of their rejection via email as well as through the online submission platform. To check the status of your submission, please log in to your account at sandyfest.com. You will find a notification indicating the decision on your submission. We will also send out an email notification to all submitters regarding the decision. If you have not received an email from us, please check your spam or junk folder.

Selection criteria carefully considers storytelling, tone, cinematography, pace, acting, dialogue and overall healing power. Depending on the category chosen, judges will look for elements of originality, honesty, ability to push boundaries, as well as emotional resonance and visual language. Overall, we assess a film's ability to move people emotionally and provide meaningful experiences for audiences.

Absolutely! There's no substitute for the connections and inspiration that come from meeting other filmmakers in person.We encourage filmmakers to attend our virtual and in-person events and network with other industry professionals. Sign up for our email list and we will notify you about screenings, panels, and events where you can meet industry buffs who share your passion for storytelling.

If selected, films will be promoted through the Sandy social media channels, press releases and and other media coverage. Sandy Fest brings together a range of industry professionals, from other filmmakers to producers, distributors, and investors. Sandy Film Festival is an event that provides opportunities for networking and building connections that can lead to future collaborations and opportunities. We encourage filmmakers to use Sandy Fest to create a narrative around their work that appeals to fans and industry professionals alike.

Yes, each category is subject to an award. Individual categories and their awards will be presented at the festival.

We fully support all efforts to share your work with a wider audience. Participating in multiple festivals can be an excellent way to connect with other filmmakers and promote your work. We encourage you to submit your film wherever you feel would be a good fit.

Filmmakers can not pay to be listed on the Sandy website, they must be invited after the festival. Select films are chosen for the Sandy website after receiving an award at the festival. Filmmaker profiles will be showcased alongside the film. Filmmakers are required to pay film submission fees.