Film at Lincoln Center has officially opened submissions for short films for the 64th edition of the New York Film Festival, set to run from September 25 through October 12. The announcement marks the start of the festival’s search for bold new voices and innovative storytelling from filmmakers around the world.
Presented in partnership with Rolex, the New York Film Festival remains one of the most prestigious showcases for international cinema. Since its founding in 1963, the festival has played a central role in shaping global film culture, spotlighting both acclaimed auteurs and emerging talent.
Short film submissions are now open via the FilmFreeway platform and will be accepted through May 24. Entry fees are set at $50 through April 5 and $60 from April 6 through May 4, with proceeds supporting festival operations and staffing, including screeners who help evaluate submissions. Films must have a runtime of 40 minutes or less to be considered.
Selected shorts will primarily be considered for the festival’s Currents section, a forward-thinking program dedicated to showcasing adventurous and boundary-pushing work across narrative, documentary, and experimental formats. Some films may also be featured in other sections, including the New York Shorts program within the Spotlight lineup.
Unlike many festivals, the New York Film Festival is noncompetitive, emphasizing curation over awards. All selections are made by the festival’s programming team, alongside a global network of advisors and industry experts. In addition to FilmFreeway submissions, the selection committee also reviews films recommended by alumni and peers, as well as standout works from other international festivals and galleries.
The open call offers a significant opportunity for emerging filmmakers seeking to gain visibility on a global stage. Every submission is evaluated alongside all other entries, ensuring equal consideration regardless of a filmmaker’s background or experience level. Applicants will be notified of their status by August 17.
As a year-round cultural institution, Film at Lincoln Center continues to champion cinema as a vital art form through festivals, retrospectives, and educational initiatives. Its flagship event, the New York Film Festival, remains a cornerstone of the fall cultural calendar in New York City.
With submissions now underway, NYFF64 is poised to once again bring together a dynamic mix of voices, styles, and perspectives—reinforcing its legacy as a launchpad for some of the most compelling films of the year.