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University Filmmakers

Online Submission Process for 2024

Films are due and submitted to the vetting and selection committee two weeks prior to the Highbridge event. This allows filmmakers time to implement any changes that may be requested by the committee for official festival selection. This year’s university submission deadline is March 29.

Entry requirements for university students differ from those for high school students. For university students, only films completed while enrolled in Asbury University can be entered (eligibility to enter extends for December graduates up to the close of the following Spring semester). In addition, films may not be submitted more than two years after their completion dates. To ensure that your entry can be accepted, please make sure to reference the applicable requirements. Submissions must be accompanied by an Entry Form, which includes a complete list of entry requirements.

To prepare your film submission, please read the file specification and upload instructions (PDF). Then proceed to complete the online form linked below.

Complete the online submission process (access requires your Asbury user ID and password).

The university submission deadline is Friday, March 29.

Entry Tips

The Highbridge Film Festival is dedicated to expressing and exploring the human condition through the power of the visual story. We place special value on the ultimate spiritual truths illustrated through the struggles, joys, tragedies and the miracles we as people all experience. Consider the following tips to increase your chance of being chosen:

  • Story is Key: in a format as short as this, your storyline must be tight and the pacing strategic.
  • Keep it Moving: The inciting incident must happen in the first 15-30 seconds for a short film.
  • This Isn't a Home Movie: Every background, every setting must add to the story. Consider the composition of every shot and never underestimate the value of a tripod.
  • Storytellers Matter: Cast actors who can actually tell your story, not just your best friend.
  • Listen Carefully: Pay careful attention to your film's sound. You can't always fix it in post!
  • Stay Legal: Do not use any copyrighted music, footage, logos, or images that you have not secured the right to use.
  • Keep it Short, Sweet, and to the Point! These are short films, after all.

By entering your film, you agree to the following:

  • You will provide the Festival committee with requested marketing and promotional materials.
  • Your film has been completed within two years of the entry deadline.
  • You are currently enrolled as a student at Asbury University (or a graduate as of the most recent December).
  • You have secured all the necessary rights for all material in the film for Festival play and the subsequent duplication and sale of your film.
  • The Festival retains the right to use all submissions for unlimited promotion, screenings, and a compilation DVD. Entries cannot be returned.
  • Judges' decisions are final. All prizes need not be awarded.

Prizes and Categories

Each selected entry will be premiered at the Highbridge Film Festival. University filmmaker entries are eligible for the following awards:

  • Best Drama
  • Best Comedy
  • Best Documentary
  • Best Supershort
  • Best Screenplay
  • Best Costuming and Makeup
  • Best Production Design
  • Best Cinematography
  • Best Editing
  • Best Audio Editing
  • Best Audio Mixing
  • Best Visual Effects
  • Best Special Visual Effects
  • Best Original Score
  • Best Actress
  • Best Actor
  • Best Director
  • Audience Favorite

All winners will receive a Highbridge Film Festival Award. Winning films will also be available online through the Highbridge Film Festival and Asbury TV websites.