Women X  submissions are open until 30th June 2021 for short films directed, written or produced by women or non-binary filmmakers. With the festival taking place 10th – 12th September 2021.

Celebrating its second year, Women X is breaking down barriers that underrepresented voices face in the industry, with new awards for North East filmmakers and student films.

Submissions costs with Women X are accessibly priced, being 70% lower than the average film festival in the UK.

Festival circuits are an integral part of the filmmaking journey, yet it’s an area of the industry that also suffers from an extreme lack of opportunity for filmmakers that aren’t straight, white and/or male.

Award-winning, women-led production company, Rianne Pictures is breaking down these barriers with short film festival Women X. While inclusion has always been the core mission of the three-day, innovative festival, adapting virtually in 2020 allowed for a fully accessible experience open globally.

2020’s official selection showcased 32 short films including Love Spell (Best Director, Lauren Ververs), Dispel (Best Writing), The Train to QinLing (Best Animation) and Antonio (Best Drama). The Festival also had strong support from partners here at Screen Queens as well as Write Her Direct Her, and The Light Leaks.

For its second installation, Women X hopes to combine in-person and virtual experience to continue showcasing North East talent, while also creating a global collaborative space with accessible screenings, panels, workshops, networking opportunities, and self-care spaces.

From guidance on smashing your festival funding goals to managing your wellbeing in creative industries, to navigating a male-dominated world of film criticism, Women X panels and workshops cater to people across all stages of their career. 

Women X puts its filmmakers first, with a culture intrinsically connected to community and the championing of one another. Being a part of the official 2021 selection goes beyond a screening, and amplifies your voice and work in a safe space, by a team and community that truly loves film.

Submit your short film now via FilmFreeway, by 30th June. Visit FilmFreeway for further submission guidance.