About the Discover Film Festival

The Discover Film Festival is consistently voted by filmmakers in the top film festivals in the world. Spread over 4 days in October 2025, the festival involves public cinema screenings at the iconic Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square. Quentin Tarantino describes it as his favourite cinema in London saying it is “everything an independent movie theatre should be” – and we agree.

The Discover Film Festival looks for the best short films: stories that share a glimpse of the lives of filmmakers. This could be what bothers them or makes them laugh, of injustices, of unsung heroes, of the serious, the bizarre, the funny or just where filmmakers’ imaginations take them. All genre of short film are welcome to enter with awards for: action, animation, drama, experimental, sci-fi, fantasy, documentary, horror, comedy, and everything in between. A full list of award categories is provided, below. All films must be under 45 minutes.

At the Discover Film Festival, we fully embrace diversity and inclusion as foundational to our festival. We believe cinema can break cultural barriers, amplify marginalised voices, and foster understanding among diverse communities. By celebrating various perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences, we aim to create an inclusive platform reflecting the richness of human storytelling. Our commitment extends to filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives contributing to the global cinematic landscape. Championing films authentically capturing the human experience, we strive to create an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. We welcome submissions from filmmakers with disabilities and neurodiversity. For assistance with forms or Filmfreeway submissions, contact Jaine at jaine @ discover.film or call 0 7 9 0 5 3 2 0 8 5 5.

Selected films get the option of various paid distribution opportunities including international TV, video on demand, major trains, hotels and airlines. Distribution is optional and entirely up to the filmmaker.

As well as cash prizes, winners can get help with future film projects in the form of discounted rates from partner firms (such as production houses) and mentoring from senior commercial film and business executives. The festival also introduces filmmakers to funding sources for future projects and offers publicity across a wide range of media (print and social) so enter today!