Tuesday, April 21st, 2026
Submitting your film to festivals can feel like a leap of faith.
But the right festival doesn’t just screen your work – it champions it, connects you, and helps move your career forward.
At Norwich Film Festival, we’re proud to be a platform for emerging filmmakers, bold storytelling, and unforgettable cinema experiences.
But don’t just take our word for it, here’s what last year’s filmmakers and award winners had to say.
Still deciding where to submit?
Here are 20 reasons why Norwich Film Festival should be on your list.
1. A BAFTA & BIFA – Qualifying Platform
All selected short films qualify for the BAFTA & BIFA Short Film and Short Animation Awards, placing your work on an internationally recognised pathway.
Several films we’ve screened have gone on to become BAFTA nominees and winners, including
- Two Black Boys in Paradise (2026 winner of Best British Short Animation)
- Rock Papers Scissors (2025 Best British Short Film)
- Jellyfish & Lobster (2024 Best British Short Film)
- An Irish Goodbye (2023 Best British Short Film & Oscar for Best Live Action Short FIlm 2023)
- Too Rough (2022 Best British Short Film)
NFF featured short films include BIFA nominees and winners;
- MAGID / ZAFIR (2025 Best British Short Film)
- Too Rough (2022 Best British Short Film)
2. A Genuine Springboard for Filmmakers
As Director & Filmmaker Ben Jackson puts it:
“It really is a springboard to future funding and future projects.”
3. A Festival That Feels Different
“A very friendly and cosy film festival, with a great cinema.”
NFF is known for its welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, something filmmakers notice immediately.
4. A Proper Cinema Experience
Screenings take place at Cinema City, Norwich – one of the UK’s most beautiful independent cinemas.
“This cinema is unbelievable. One of the most beautiful cinemas I’ve ever seen.”
5. Real Audiences, Real Energy
“Most festivals attract tiny audiences, but Norwich fills the room.”
Your film isn’t screened to empty seats, it’s shown to engaged, enthusiastic audiences.
6. High-Quality Curated Programme
“The standard of short films is so high.”
NFF carefully curates its programme, meaning your film sits alongside exceptional work.
7. A Programme That Doesn’t Overwhelm
“A really nice curated selection of films, not too many… it’s a great place.”
Your film won’t get lost in an overcrowded schedule.
8. A Strong Sense of Community
As BBC Broadcaster & Journalist, Ali Plumb says:
“Everyone knows each other, everyone talks, and everyone celebrates each other’s work.”
9. Meaningful Filmmaker Connections
“The best part of being selected is meeting the people.”
NFF is as much about connections as it is about films.
10. A Festival That Supports You
“Norwich Film Festival really supports filmmakers and the art of filmmaking and storytelling.”
You’re not just selected, you’re supported.
11. A Platform for Regional Voices
“Festivals like this highlight voices from across the UK.”
NFF actively champions stories beyond London.
12. Celebrate Diverse Stories
“My film about Caribbean culture was welcomed with open arms.”
NFF embraces global perspectives and underrepresented voices.
13. A Boost for First-Time Filmmakers
“This is the first film I’ve ever made… winning at Norwich is an incredible achievement.”
Whether it’s your first film or your tenth, your work is valued.
14. Encouragement Through Community
“No one feels alone in the things they’re making.”
The festival creates a space where filmmakers feel connected and supported.
15. A Festival with Real Buzz
“Nice energy in the cinema.”
“Very good vibes.”
There’s a genuine excitement around every screening.
16. Standout Programming
“That Sci-Fi set was one of the best sets of shorts I’ve seen this year!”
Your film becomes part of thoughtfully curated, memorable programmes.
17. Recognition That Feels Special
“Winning an award here feels special… everything has come full circle.”
Awards at NFF carry emotional and professional weight.
18. Strong Industry Presence
From hosts like BBC Broadcaster & Journalist Ali Plumb to NFF’s prestigious Patron board to visiting filmmakers and professionals, the festival connects you to the wider industry.
19. A Hub for Emerging Talent
“There’s so much talent in East Anglia.”
NFF is at the heart of a growing regional creative community.
20. A Festival You’ll Want to Return To
“Norwich Film Festival is always on our submissions list.”
Once filmmakers experience NFF, they always come back.
Final Thought
Making a film is hard.
Getting it seen, by the right audience, in the right setting, surrounded by the right people – is even harder.
That’s what Norwich Film Festival offers.
“If I was to recommend the Norwich Film Festival to a friend, it would be simple: come, enjoy yourself, don’t think twice.”
Submit Your Film
Be part of a festival that celebrates your work, connects you with others, and helps take your next step.
Posted in: Blog
