Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about entering Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re wondering about age limits, film formats, or how to submit your masterpiece via FilmFreeway, we’ve broken down everything you need to know below.
If you still can’t find the answer you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team—we’re always happy to help!
What is the age limit for Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year?
The Senior category is open to filmmakers aged 13–19 who are in second-level education. The Junior category is open to filmmakers aged 7–12.
What if I made my film while I was in secondary school but am now in college?
You can still enter. Your film is eligible for the 2027 competition if you made it while you were in second-level education and completed it from 1 January 2026 onwards
How many films can I submit?
You can submit as many films as you like. Please complete a separate submission for each film.
How do I submit my film?
You can upload your film directly to FilmFreeway or share a link through FilmFreeway using Vimeo, Google Drive or another file-sharing service.
Please make sure that the link works and allows us to download your film. Before submitting, check that you have provided the correct and most up-to-date version, as this is the version we will screen if your film is selected.
How long can my film be?
Senior films must be under 15 minutes long. Junior films must be under 10 minutes long.
What types of films can I enter?
You can enter any type of film. We love to see your unique ideas and your own way of telling a story. Fiction, documentary, animation, experimental films, music videos and other short-film formats are all welcome, provided they meet the competition requirements
Can I make my film using a phone?
Yes. Films made using a phone, tablet, camera or other equipment are welcome
Can my school or youth group submit a film on my behalf?
Yes. A school, youth group or other organisation can submit a film, provided the filmmaker or filmmakers meet the eligibility requirements.
Should I upload stills from my film?
Yes, please! We would really appreciate it if you could upload a few good-quality stills to your FilmFreeway entry. A still is simply an image taken from your film.
Choose images that best represent your film, as we may use them on our website, in the festival programme, on social media or for publicity if your film is selected. Uploading these when you submit your film is a real help to the Fresh Film team.
Can I enter a film that has already been shown elsewhere?
Yes, you can. However, we encourage you to use the festival as your premiere screening, as this can create greater interest and publicity around your film.
Does my film need subtitles?
Your film does not need subtitles if it is in English. Films in Irish or another language should include English subtitles so that all members of the selection panel and audience can follow the film. Irish-language films are very welcome.
Can I enter a film in a language other than English?
Yes, but films in other languages should include English subtitles so that the selection panel and audience can follow the film.
What is the Sustainability Award?
The Sustainability Award recognises filmmakers who take steps to make their film in an environmentally sustainable way. It focuses on how you make your film, rather than its subject matter.
How do I apply for the Sustainability Award?
Complete the separate Sustainability Award form when you submit your film. Use it to tell us about the steps you took to reduce the environmental impact of your production.
When is the deadline?
The deadline for Island of Ireland entries is 15 January 2027. The deadline for INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES international entries is 18 December 2026. Full details are available on our FilmFreeway page.
When will I find out if my film has been selected?
Entrants will be contacted after the selection process has been completed. Please check FilmFreeway and your entry confirmation for updates on notification dates.
What happens if my film is selected?
Selected filmmakers may be invited to have their film screened at the Regional Finals. They may also be eligible for awards, publicity or other opportunities connected with the competition.
🚀 Want to know more?
Head over to our main awards page to learn more about Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year, check out past highlights, and get inspired for your next project: Ireland’s Young Filmmaker Award
