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Are you passionate about seeing more women and non-binary creatives behind the camera? The Reel Champions Shorts Fest is now open for submissions, welcoming short films that amplify voices too often overlooked in the film industry.
Now entering its third year, TRC Shorts Fest showcases films directed by women and non-binary filmmakers while creating meaningful opportunities for visibility, education, and connection. Selected films will screen at a live festival event in Los Angeles in Fall 2026, followed by filmmaker Q&As, educational panels, and community networking.
About the Festival
The Reel Champions (TRC) is a 501(c)(3) organization operating under the umbrella of Cinematography for Actors Institute. Led by a board of entertainment industry professionals, TRC is dedicated to helping women and non-binary filmmakers gain recognition, access, and sustainable careers.
What began as a small weekly screening in a living room has grown into a vibrant community offering a biweekly newsletter, monthly panels, screenings, networking mixers, and the NEXT GEN: Executive Diversity Mentorship Program—all centered on building equity and representation in entertainment.
TRC Shorts Fest reflects this mission by pairing film exhibition with mentorship, education, and real industry access.
Awards & Categories
Films MUST be directed by a woman or non-binary filmmaker to be considered for:
- Best Drama
- Best Comedy
- Best Horror / Experimental
- Best Documentary
- Best Student Short (Any Genre)
- Best Director
Films of any director identity may be considered for the following awards if a woman or non-binary creative holds the credited role:
- Best Cinematography
- Best Script
- Best Editing
- Best Production Design
- Best Sound Design
Mentors from TRC’s NEXT GEN Executive Diversity Mentorship Program will serve as jurors for the 2026 festival. Films selected but not awarded will receive Official Selection status and a festival laurel.
Submission Guidelines
- Films must be 1–25 minutes in length (including credits)
- No restrictions on completion date, premiere status, or online availability
- Student films must have been completed while enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program
- Films not in English must include English subtitles
- Submission fees are non-refundable
- Selected films must provide a DCP, poster, director headshot, bio, stills, and logline for marketing
Directors and department heads are strongly encouraged to attend the live festival and participate in post-screening Q&As. If attendance isn’t possible, a pre-recorded Q&A option will be available.
Submit your film today and be part of the movement shaping a more equitable film industry.
