Hollywood Queer Short Film Festival

Now in its 10th incredible year, the Hollywood Queer Short Film Festival (formerly the CMG Short Film Festival) continues to shine as a powerful platform for bold, authentic, and groundbreaking LGBTQ storytelling.

Each year, they present four dynamic programs of fewer than 40 short films—handpicked from hundreds of submissions on FilmFreeway, personal recommendations, and standout entries from other major festivals. These selections represent the very best of the queer community’s creative vision and cinematic talent.

In a time when queer visibility is under threat, this festival stands as a cultural act of defiance. They believe visibility is revolution—a declaration that queer voices will not be silenced or erased. Each film screened is a proud affirmation: they are not going back into hiding.

To nurture community and connection, the festival gives special consideration to Los Angeles-area filmmakers and talent. While being local doesn’t guarantee selection, it reflects their commitment to building a supportive “family” of artists who uplift and inspire one another. For some creators, this may be the only local LGBTQ festival their film screens at—and the organizers recognize the weight and honor of that role. To show their support, they offer a generous comps policy for filmmakers, cast, and crew.

They are also deeply committed to accessibility, offering grassroots submission pricing to ensure that independent and emerging voices—regardless of budget—have the chance to be heard. Thanks to FilmFreeway, this inclusive model remains possible year after year.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark celebration of queer cinema. Submit your film. Share your story. Be part of the revolution.

The tenth annual Hollywood Queer Short Film Festival is now accepting early bird submissions. Submitted films should be 30 minutes or less, and must include queer content.

The festival will screen again this year on October 4th and 5th at Founders Metropolitan Community Church in Hollywood. Selected Short Films will be presented in four programs reflecting our immense and diverse queer community.

Filmmakers can submit their live action or animated films online at FilmFreeway.com. An experienced selection committee will then select the approximately forty films to be exhibited at the event.

Awards & Prizes

The Hollywood Queer Short Film Festival honors outstanding achievement with both audience-voted and jury-selected awards:

• Audience Favorite Award – chosen by festivalgoers via ballot

• Jury Awards include:

  • Best Comedy or Musical

  • Best Drama

  • Best Performance (in both Comedy/Musical and Drama, regardless of gender)

The jury also has the discretion to present special recognition awards for exceptional work across any category.
Please note: These awards are honorary and do not carry cash value.

Rules & Terms

By submitting a film, filmmakers confirm that they hold all necessary rights to authorize the festival to:

• Screen the film at the Hollywood Queer Short Film Festival

• Use a short excerpt in a festival trailer

• Use publicity stills for press releases, social media, website, printed program, and promotional postcards

• Include the film in a possible “Best Of” showcase in the year following the festival

• Archive a copy of the film for festival records

Filmmakers are strongly encouraged to include a brief synopsis with their submission. If selected, they will be contacted to provide high-resolution stills and may be invited to share a trailer for inclusion in the festival’s integrated marketing campaign—especially across social media.

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