RULES & REGULATIONS

1. ELIGIBILITY

1.1 Open Submissions

BITFF is open to international, national, and regional films from all countries.

1.2 Production Year & Release Status

There is no restriction on the year of production or release status. Films may be released or unreleased, and may have been exhibited online or offline on any platform.

1.3 Original Work & Authority

All submissions must be the original work of the applicant or submitted by an authorized representative with the legal right to enter the work.

2. SUBMISSION CATEGORIES

2.1 Official Submission Categories

• Student Short Films

• Professional Short Films

• Feature Films

2.2 Duration

• Short Films: 40 minutes or less

• Feature Films: More than 40 minutes

2.3 Student Verification

A valid school or college ID card is mandatory for submissions under the Student Short Films category.

3. GENRES / SUBCATEGORIES

Films may belong to one or more genres, including but not limited to:

• Fiction / Narrative

• Drama

• Animation

• Documentary

• Social Awareness

• Experimental

Genres are used for programming and curation purposes only and do not constitute separate award categories.

There is no restriction on theme, subject, topic, or genre.

4. SUBMISSION PLATFORM & MATERIALS

4.1 Submission Methods

Films may be submitted via BITFF’s official online submission partner (FilmFreeway).

4.2 Preview Access

Applicants must ensure that preview links are accessible and downloadable for review purposes.

4.3 Required Materials

• Film poster

• Synopsis (maximum 200 words)

• Accurate filmmaker/producer contact details

Even if an agency submits on behalf of the filmmaker, direct contact details of the filmmaker/producer must be provided.

5. SUBTITLES & LANGUAGE

5.1 Films may be silent, with dialogue, or without dialogue.

5.2 English subtitles are mandatory for all non-English films.

5.3 BITFF may request additional subtitle formats or languages for selected films, depending on screening locations.

6. MULTIPLE ENTRIES

Applicants may submit multiple films.

Each film must be submitted as a separate entry with a separate submission fee.

7. FEES & WITHDRAWALS

7.1 Submission Fees

All submission fees are non-refundable under any circumstances.

7.2 Withdrawal Policy

Once a film is submitted, it cannot be withdrawn from participation in BITFF at any stage.

8. SELECTION, SCREENING & TOURING

8.1 Selection Process

Selection, awards, screenings, touring invitations, and promotional features are based on curation, jury evaluation, and editorial discretion.

8.2 No Guarantees

Submission does not guarantee:

• selection

• screening

• awards

• touring inclusion

• promotional placement

8.3 Touring Model

BITFF operates a flexible, opportunity-driven touring model. Selected works may be programmed into multiple curated screenings or touring events across different locations during the edition cycle.

9. PROMOTION & SUBMISSION SHOWCASE

9.1 Submission Acknowledgement

All submissions may be acknowledged through BITFF’s submission showcase and official digital platforms.

9.2 Editorial Discretion

BITFF reserves the sole right to determine the extent, timing, and format of promotional features. Promotional activity cannot be claimed, demanded, or challenged by any participant.

10. SELECTED FILMS – MATERIALS & SCREENING COPIES

Once a film is shortlisted or selected, filmmakers may be requested to:

• provide publicity materials (stills, posters, trailers)

• submit a screening copy in the specified format

Detailed instructions will be communicated individually.

11. FESTIVAL ATTENDANCE

Filmmakers and delegates of selected films may be invited to attend festival events.

BITFF does not guarantee or reimburse travel, accommodation, or related expenses unless explicitly stated in writing.

12. SCREENING CONDITIONS

While BITFF makes best efforts to present films in professional screening conditions, commercial cinema hall presentation is not guaranteed. Screenings may take place in auditoriums, cultural venues, or alternative screening spaces.

13. COPYRIGHT, RIGHTS & LIABILITY

13.1 Rights & Permissions

The applicant confirms that all necessary rights, permissions, and licenses (including music, script, and underlying works) have been secured.

13.2 Accuracy of Information

The applicant accepts responsibility for the accuracy of all information provided.

13.3 Indemnification

By submitting a film, the applicant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless BITFF, its organizers, affiliates, representatives, and partners from any claims, damages, or legal disputes arising from the submission or exhibition of the work.

BITFF does not verify or attest to the authenticity of rights declarations and is not responsible for copyright disputes.

14. SHIPPING & INSURANCE

Any costs related to shipping, insurance, publicity materials, or screening copies are the sole responsibility of the participant.

15. FESTIVAL RIGHTS & CHANGES

BITFF reserves the right to:

• accept or refuse any submission without assigning reasons

• modify schedules, venues, dates, or formats

• announce selections in multiple phases or cycles

• interpret these rules at its sole discretion

All decisions of the festival management are final and binding.

16. PROMOTIONAL & PARTNERSHIP ENQUIRIES

For branding, promotional, or partnership opportunities, please contact:

Email: contact@banjaracinema.com