3rd-16th November 2025
What Actually Happens After You Submit to a Film Festival?
Ever wondered what happens to your film after you hit submit? Here’s how we programme our festival – from first watch to final selection – and why every decision matters.
Why LGBTQ+ Stories Are Important And How To Do Them Justice
LGBTQ+ short films are a vital part of the festival landscape. Here’s why they matter, how we approach programming them at NFF, and what filmmakers can do to tell these stories with care.
Budget vs. Impact: Do You Need Money to Make a Festival-Worthy Film?
Think you need a huge budget to get into film festivals? Think again. We break down what really matters — and why strong storytelling beats a six-figure budget every time.
Why Your Short Film Doesn’t Need A Twist Ending
Think your short film needs a twist to be memorable? Think again. We explore why the best endings don’t always surprise — they resonate — and what programmers actually want to see.
Five Film Festival Mistakes Even Experienced Filmmakers Make
Even experienced filmmakers make mistakes on the festival circuit. From botched loglines to prestige-chasing, here are five key pitfalls — and what you can do to avoid them in 2025.
From Laugh-Out-Loud to Family-Friendly: Why Variety Matters in a Short Film Festival
A good short film festival should make you laugh, cry — and sometimes watch with your kids. Here’s why we champion comedy, family-friendly stories, and all kinds of genre films at NFF.
Short Docs, Big Impact: Why We Want More Documentary Films
Short documentaries punch above their weight — telling urgent, emotional stories with honesty and impact. Here’s why we’re calling for more documentary submissions at NFF, and what we’re looking for.
Five Things We Love Seeing in Short Films
From bold openings to strong emotional hooks, here are five things our programming team loves to see in short films — and why they can make all the difference on the festival circuit.
Why You Should Submit Your Short Film to Norwich Film Festival
Discover why Norwich Film Festival is a filmmaker-first, BAFTA-qualifying platform that champions bold storytelling, emerging talent, and underrepresented voices—including LGBTQ+ films, short docs, and regional work.