Film Submissions

Film submissions for the Movies that Matter Festival are now closed.

The 2026 edition of the Movies that Matter Festival will be held from 20–28 March in The Hague, The Netherlands. Submissions for the 2026 Festival were open from 1 June to 1 November 2025. The results of the final film selection will be announced at the end of February 2026.

FAQ

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

    Early Bird  1 June – 31 July 2025 € 20,- 
    Normal Fee  1 August – 30 September 2025 € 25,- 
    Late Fee 1 October – 1 November 2025  € 35,- 

  • The final deadline to submit your film is 1 November 2025. 

  • 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 2025 or 2026.
    • 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. 

  • 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.