Borscht is not a typical film festival.
Borscht doesn’t just screen films, it creates them. The Borscht Film Festival accepts submissions of work at all stages, treatment to final cut, from emerging filmmakers born, raised, inspired by, or living in South Florida. Any form, any genre, any subject matter is welcomed, as long as it deals with South Florida in some way.
Borscht partners with emerging filmmakers to support their work in a variety of ways.
Commissioned Films
Projects submitted to Borscht in their initial stages are eligible to be selected as a work commissioned from the filmmaker. Borscht provides funding, guidance, and professional support throughout the filmmaking process as well as a platform for exposure. We don’t take credit for the World Premiere either. It’s a pretty good deal and we want to see what you’ve got for us.
Completed Films
Films submitted upon or near completion are eligible to screen at an official Borscht presentation or event. Borscht continues to expand its programming each year and we are excited to be offering more screening opportunities during our 2012 season.
All slots for Borscht 7 have been filled but check back soon for information on how to submit work for our 2012 season, including Borscht 8 and much, much more.
FAQ
Q. Minister of the Interior? Manifesto? Are you guys communists?
A. No.
Q. Can I submit a completed film to screen at Borscht?
A. Yes, Borscht presents completed work alongside commissioned projects.
Q. Does Borscht only do shorts? Can I submit a feature length project?
A. Borscht accepts submissions of any format, but please keep in mind that the stringency of the evaluation criteria increases with running time. To date our feature screenings have been solicited from the filmmakers and all of our commissioned films have been short format.
Q. How many films will be produced and/or screened?
A. Borscht continues to expand its operations each year. The number of films produced and screened at each festival will vary along with several factors including: the quality of submissions received, the availability of funds for production, and thematic content of each presentation.
Q. Is there an age limit? Does Borscht accept the work of filmmakers over the age of 30?
A. Borscht presents the work of emerging filmmakers regardless of age.
Q. Why was my film rejected?
A. Filmmakers can make an appointment to speak with us about any eligible project, even in the event that it is not accepted to the festival.
Q. My film was not accepted last year, can I submit it again this year?
A. Yes. But, why? Avail yourself of the above mentioned consultation and make something new.
Q. Why is Borscht called Borscht? What does the name have to do with emerging filmmakers in Miami, FL?
A. Borscht is a beet soup from Eastern Europe. It can be served hot or cold, sometimes with a dollop of sour cream on the side.
For more information please contact us directly.
