Short Stack
Short Stack shows the best short films and music videos the Midlands and beyond has to offer.
We aim to support independent filmmaking talent from a range of backgrounds and experiences to give them a platform to show their work here at Broadway!
WHAT IS SHORT STACK?
Established in 2013 by David Lilley, Short Stack began as a cosy film night in a furniture store basement and has since blossomed into a bi-annual event at Broadway Cinema in Nottingham City Centre. With support from Film Hub Midlands, we proudly provide a spotlight for Midlands-based filmmakers to showcase their talents on the big screen and connect with fellow creatives.
Our aim is to celebrate filmmaking talent from the Midlands and beyond and give filmmakers a home to show their work on the big screen, in front of a friendly and supportive audience where creatives can come together to network, socialise and make connections for future collaborations.
We accept submissions of films in any style or genre, from filmmakers in the Midlands, under ten minutes. Entry is free.
We love when filmmakers attend and introduce their work. If you're planning to be there, we'd love to see your submission.
We're on the lookout for films that enchant and entertain - whether through humour, style, or a compelling story. No need for a big budget or famous faces, just a commitment to quality. So let's avoid those pesky audio hiccups!
Longer entries (over 10 minutes) are considered selectively so make sure they're exceptional and grab our attention in the first ten minutes.
SUBMISSION DETAILS AND PREVIOUSLY FEATURED SHORTS
Submission Process:
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Midlands-based filmmakers can submit films under ten minutes for free.
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Please limit submissions to one per person. Let's showcase your best work!
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Occasionally, outstanding films longer than ten minutes may be considered, subject to exceptional quality, industry recognition, and festival history.
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Please only submit finished films as it is hard to judge works in progress to the same standard as a completed film.
Note: We occasionally make exceptions for outstanding films from outside the Midlands, at the judges' discretion. Feel free to contact us or check Film Hub Midlands for catchment area details. We can't wait to see your creations!
Want to submit to the next Short Stack?
The next Short Stack will take place in March 2024. Submissions are currently open until Friday 9th February at 23:59
Please apply here
FAQs
If my film is longer than ten minutes can I still apply?
Yes, but we prefer to programme shorter films - so it will be much harder to be selected. We may only watch the first ten minutes of your film during our initial judging phase.
I don’t live in the Midlands, can I still apply?
If your film was shot in the Midlands, or a key crew member (writer, producer, director) is from the Midlands then we will consider it.
What happens if my film is selected?
We will ask you to provide us with a delivery file (usually a ProRes) of the final film, along with one promotional still (for marketing). You will also receive a free ticket to the event.
Why wasn’t my film selected?
Nobody likes rejection and this is our least favourite part of putting on a film night. There’s no easy answers, but ultimately we only have so much time to screen work and sometimes difficult choices have to be made. We would love it if you could still attend and see our programme, what kind of films we like to play - and you’ll get a chance to meet other filmmakers after the screening at our networking drinks in Broadway's Mezz bar.
Does my film have to be a premiere, or can it be available online?
We’re not picky about these things and have no rules regarding premiere or online status.
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Short Stack
Delivered by Broadway on behalf of Film Hub Midlands
Supported by the National Lottery
