At Short of the Week, our mission has always been to champion emerging filmmakers and spotlight voices that deserve to be seen and heard. With the launch of Pride Shorts, our new global short film competition, we’re creating a dedicated space to celebrate the complexity, creativity, and diversity of LGBTQ+ storytelling.

More than just a showcase of exceptional filmmaking, Pride Shorts is designed to amplify perspectives that challenge, inspire, and reflect the richness of queer experience – past, present, and future. 

For those ready to submit, entries are now open. Read more about the competition below.

Awards & Prizes

Winner

  • Short of the Week Feature (2.2m subscribers)
  • Free Winners Merch

Finalists/Runners-up (x3)

  • Inclusion in Short of the Week’s Pride Month showcase on Shortverse
  • Free Finalists Merch

Competition Jury

The winner of our Pride Shorts competition will be selected by a handpicked jury, including a number of filmmakers previously featured on Short of the Week:

  • Charlie Tidmas – a BIFA and Grierson-longlisted writer and director whose work in film and television focuses on intersectional masculinities and trans identity – Full Bio / SotW Films
  • Carlen May-Mann – a Brooklyn-based writer and director of bold, humanistic horror, drama, and comedy films – Full Bio / SotW Films

Competition Timeline

Pride Shorts will run over a six-week submission period:

  • Opens: Tuesday, April 6
  • Closes: Thursday, May 21

The winner will be announced by the end of May and be featured on Short of the Week in early June, to coincide with Pride Month.

What we’re looking for

We are seeking short films that explore LGBTQ+ themes, identities, and experiences in all their forms. Above all, we are looking for films that feel authentic and considered – work that showcases a filmmaker with something to say and the ability to get their message across.

There are no restrictions on genre or style – narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, and hybrid works are all welcome. What matters most is a distinct voice and a clear sense of perspective.

Eligibility

  • Films must be 40 minutes or less
  • Films can’t already be featured on SotW
  • Open to filmmakers from anywhere in the world
  • Selected films must be available for online screening if chosen
  • All rights secured including music.

 

 

Industry Partnerships

SotW is also inviting organisations interested in collaborating or sponsoring the competition to get in touch at partnerships@shortoftheweek.com

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With Pride Shorts, Short of the Week continues its commitment to supporting filmmakers and fostering a more inclusive film community – one where a wider range of stories can be shared, celebrated, and discovered.