Exciting News for Filmmakers: Submissions Open for Sidewalk Film Festival in Birmingham!
Hey there, folks! If you’re a budding filmmaker or just someone who loves the magic of movies, I’ve got some thrilling news for you! The 27th annual Sidewalk Film Festival has just opened up its submissions, and we can hardly contain our excitement here in Birmingham, Alabama. This iconic festival is not just any run-of-the-mill event; it’s been celebrated as one of the coolest film festivals worldwide!
What is Sidewalk Film Festival?
Established way back in 1999, the Sidewalk Film Festival has been shining a spotlight on independent films ever since. It’s garnered impressive accolades over the years, including recognition from MovieMaker Magazine as one of the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World and deemed one of the Top 10 Festivals for the Rest of Us by TIME Magazine. Now that’s some serious street cred!
Why You Should Submit Your Film
Whether your film shines a light on civil and social issues, embraces diversity, or tells stories from the LGBTQ+ community, there’s a spot for everyone’s creativity! The festival features several unique tracks, such as the Life and Liberty track, the Black Lens track, and the SHOUT track. It even has a Family Festival track for our younger viewers and family-friendly programming, ensuring that no one is left out!
Keep Your Camera Rolling
If you’re thinking about entering, remember that your film must be completed after January 1, 2023, to be eligible. So, whether you’re polishing up some last-minute edits or considering a brand new project, now is the time to get those creative juices flowing!
Submission Guidelines
To make things a bit easier for you, here’s a quick rundown of the submission process:
- All films must be completed after January 1, 2023.
- Check out the full list of festival rules and categories to ensure your film fits just right.
- But wait, there’s more! If you’re producing films or screenplays right here in Alabama, you’re in for a treat. The festival offers a 30% discount on entry fees for Alabama-produced films!
Save the Dates!
Mark your calendars, everyone! The 2025 Sidewalk Film Festival will be taking place from August 18 to 24. It’s a week-long celebration showcasing the best in independent cinema. Imagine the atmosphere, the discussions, and, of course, the chance to connect with fellow filmmakers and film lovers alike!
Final Thoughts
This is truly an exciting time for filmmakers looking to share their stories and gain recognition. With such an expansive platform like the Sidewalk Film Festival, it’s a wonderful opportunity to get your work seen by audiences who appreciate art in all its forms.
So, dust off that old camera, wrap up those edits, and submit your masterpiece. There’s a vibrant community waiting to welcome you with open arms! Remember, the deadline is approaching, and you won’t want to miss out on this fantastic opportunity. Happy filming!

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.


