Open Call for 2026 Entries
Has Begun!
Submissions are currently OPEN for 2026
Film Selections will be announced FALL 2026
2026 Entry Deadlines and Fees
(submit by dates)
February 12, 2026 Super Earlybird Deadline - $30
March 12, 2026 Earlybird Deadline - $35
June 12, 2026 Regular Deadline - $40
July 12, 2026 Extended Deadline - $45
September 12, 2026 Super Extended Deadline - $50
October 6, 2026 Last Chance Deadline - $55
(Notifications should be in Oct 2026)
Festival show dates are TBD (More info coming soon)
Festival show dates are TBD (More info coming soon)
Calling All Filmmakers
Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Festival is excited to announce the opening of their 23rd Season. A festival created and designed to celebrate the art of the short film, we welcome submissions from around the world. With programming and various themed categories, we help spotlight the best of this genre, the Short Film. So please join us in making the 23rd annual Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Festival a continued success. Follow the submit links below for Rules, Deadlines, and Fees.
Check Back often for updates to festival and join our Facebook group for news.
Don't forget to submit your film, the next submission deadline is coming soon!
Submission Fees
All submissions and payments are through Filmfreeway's secure online submissions system.
Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Festival is excited to announce the opening of their 23rd Season. A festival created and designed to celebrate the art of the short film, we welcome submissions from around the world. With programming and various themed categories, we help spotlight the best of this genre, the Short Film. So please join us in making the 23rd annual Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Festival a continued success. Follow the submit links below for Rules, Deadlines, and Fees.
Check Back often for updates to festival and join our Facebook group for news.
Don't forget to submit your film, the next submission deadline is coming soon!
Submission Fees
All submissions and payments are through Filmfreeway's secure online submissions system.
