Anything and everything that promotes well being for us all! From narrative short films featuring characters working through emotional or physical trauma to science and evidence based documentaries tackling social, health, or environmental issues and everything in between, we want to amplify films that bring light into the world. Whether that's shining a light on dark and hard places, bringing hope where there was none, fighting injustice, or simply inviting us to share in the human experience, if you aim to make a difference with your film, IGHFF is the festival for you.

First and foremost entries will be judged on how well they align with the focus of IGHFF. Then our diverse panel of experts will select entrants based on artistic merit and the strength of their message.

Yes! We believe in giving recognition where recognition is deserved. An example of some of the awards that may be presented at IGHFF are:

BEST NARRATIVE FEATURE

BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE

BEST OUTDOOR/ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURE

BEST HEALTH/WELLNESS FEATURE

BEST NARRATIVE SHORT

BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT

BEST OUTDOOR/ENVIRONMENTAL SHORT

BEST HEALTH/WELLNESS SHORT

BEST DIRECTOR for a Narrative Feature*

BEST DIRECTOR for a Documentary Feature*

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY for a Narrative Feature*

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY for a Documentary Feature*

BEST EDITING for a Narrative Feature*

BEST EDITING for a Documentary Feature*

BEST ACTOR for a Narrative Feature*

BEST ACTRESS for a Narrative Feature*

BEST ANIMATION

-The competition is open to U.S. and International entries. Please check individual categories for additional requirements.

-Feature films are 40 minutes in length or longer. Short films are under 40 minutes in length.

-Films not in the English language must be subtitled in English.

-Entries must be submitted for pre-screening via FilmFreeway. NO HARD COPIES WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR ENTRIES.

-Works-in-progress are accepted but are not encouraged. We can't promise that we will be able to watch re-edited submissions. Please only submit a work-in-progress edit if you are submitting close to the final deadline.

-You may submit multiple entries but must fill out a separate entry form and pay an entry fee for each.

-Iris Arts Institute/IGHFF employees, including seasonal staff, board members, sponsors, and their immediate families, are not eligible to submit in any category to this competition.

-By submitting your work you are giving permission for the Iris Global Health Film Festival/Iris Arts Institute to showcase your work at the festival and for promotional purposes.

-Any potential prize awards are subject to all relevant federal and/or state laws and are therefore not guaranteed. Prize winners are responsible for providing required documentation in a timely manner and are responsible for any tax liabilities they may incur. Iris Arts Institute/IGHFF is not responsible for providing tax advice.

-We do not offer individual feedback on submissions after notification. Due to the volume of submission we receive, this isn’t possible for our staff.

FESTIVAL SCREENING

The individual or corporation submitting the film warrants that he/she/they is authorized to commit the film to at least one screening at any time during the 2024 Iris Global Health Film Festival (IGHFF) taking place October 2024 and limited, ticketed, secure online presentations during that same period. Selected entries will be given more detail on what film file formats to deliver (file type based on venue capabilities) .

LIABILITY

Every possible care will be taken with DCPs while in our possession, however, we cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or additional charges incurred en route, or due to normal wear and tear, or due to equipment failure. Do NOT send original prints or master copies.

Additionally, IGHFF/Iris Arts Institute is held harmless from any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits, publicity or screening of any film.

SHIPPING

For films accepted into the Festival, the entrant is responsible for any and all inbound/outbound shipping costs.

ALL OF THE FOLLOWING MUST ACCOMPANY YOUR ENTRY:

-Entry fee (must be paid online via FilmFreeway).

-3-Line Synopsis (may be used for Festival Program and website)

-FEATURE-LENGTH FILMS: 250 Word Synopsis (may be used for Festival Program and website)

-Accepted entries must submit at least one digital, horizontal 300dpi still photo from the film.

-Selected films who submit a rough cut MUST submit a copy of the final edit of their film on Vimeo or other digital streaming service.

NOTIFICATIONS

Notification of Festival acceptance status is scheduled to be given to all entrants on or about August 27, 2024.

How do I submit my film?

You MUST submit your film via FilmFreeway.

Do you accept re-submission from previous years?

We do. However we do warn that new work will be given precedence over re-submissions from previous years.

Do you require premiere status?

We do not require any premiere status.

Do you prefer DVD, Blu-ray or online screeners?

Online ONLY! No other form of screener will be eligible.

I have a question that wasn’t addressed. Who should I contact?

Please email us at iris@ighff.org