Film Submissions

Film submissions for the Movies that Matter Festival 2027 are now open.

Do you have a compelling short or feature-length documentary or fiction film, completed in 2026 or 2027, that addresses human rights issues? We warmly invite you to submit your work for the 2027 edition of the Movies that Matter Festival!

The festival will take place from 19 to 27 March 2027 in The Hague. The submission deadline is 1 November 2026. The final programme will be announced at the end of February 2027.

Before you begin, please read the full rules and regulations to ensure your film is eligible for submission.

Submit your film here

FAQ

  • The submission fee depends on when you submit your film: 

    Early Bird  1 June – 31 July € 20,- 
    Normal Fee  1 August – 30 September € 25,- 
    Late Fee 1 October – 1 November  € 35,- 

  • The final deadline to submit your film is 1 November. 

  • Submission fee waivers are granted only in very exceptional cases, and must be supported by strong and clear reasons.

    Please note: due to the high number of requests, waivers are rarely granted.

    • Documentaries and feature films that are completed or have their world premiere in 2026 or 2027.
    • Films previously selected for other festivals, including Dutch festivals, remain eligible if the festival occurred within maximum one year prior to our next edition.
    • Films of all lengths are accepted, including short films.
    • Films that have been released in Dutch cinemas before the start of the festival.
    • Films that have been broadcast on Dutch television before the festival.
    • Films that are freely available online.
    • Films that were previously submitted for consideration in our last festival edition.
    • Yes, if the film is only available on paid online platforms.
    • No, if the film is freely accessible online, it is not eligible.

  • Films must be submitted with English commentary and/or English dialogue or in the original version with English subtitles.

  • No, a (world) premiere is not required, but it may be taken into account in the final selection process. 

    Films previously selected for other festivals, including Dutch festivals, remain eligible if the festival occurred within maximum one year prior to our next edition.

  • The final selection will be announced at the end of February. You will be informed about the outcome via email.

    Please note: due to the high number of submissions, we are not always able to provide individual feedback or reasons for our decision. 

  • Unfortunately, films that were previously submitted for consideration in our last festival edition are not eligible for reconsideration.

  • Yes, you may submit a rough cut or work-in-progress.

    However, we cannot guarantee that the film will be reviewed again if a final version becomes available later.

  • Not guaranteed. If your film does not meet the eligibility criteria, the submission fee may not be refunded. 

  • Yes – if your film is selected and wins the Grand Jury Documentary Competition at Movies that Matter. This competition includes 8 documentaries focused on Human Rights. The winning film of this section will be eligible for nomination for the ACADEMY AWARD® for Best Documentary Feature Film. See here for more information.