Filmmaker Resource

Please review the following rules before submitting. These guidelines apply to all filmmakers, and full details can also be found on our FilmFreeway page.

1. A separate entry and entry fee is required for each film submission. However, previous submitters to SAAFF can have a discount code. For the discount code, please email us at programming@seattleaaff.org for verification.
2. We accept films of all premiere statuses, including films that already have distribution and/or are available for streaming online.
3. All non-English language films must have English subtitles or no dialogue.
4. All accepted films must have full captions provided when sending final film files. If your film does not have captions yet, we may still be able to consider it.
5. All submissions must be digital, uploaded to FilmFreeway directly or link to Vimeo preferred. Please do not send DVDs. No exceptions.
6. Access to film screeners submitted through FilmFreeway must not expire until at least June 1, 2026.
7. After selection, notification letters and further correspondence will take place via email only.
8. Images from the film's website or social media properties may be used by SAAFF for publicity purposes for this year's festival as well as future events.
9. All selected films may be excerpted (up to 2 minutes) for publicity purposes for this year's festival as well as future events.
10. SAAFF does not pay exhibition fees.
11. Films must have a completion date of no earlier than 2023.
12. Do not submit works in progress.
13. Entry fees will not be refunded.
14. All press kits, publicity info, photos, etc. will be retained as part of the Seattle Asian American Film Festival's library.
15. Acceptance into the festival also releases the film for press review.
16. It is the responsibility of the filmmaker or submission contact to ensure that all requirements are met. The festival retains the right to disqualify an entry, with no refunded fee, if submission rules are not followed.
17. The festival retains the right to disqualify an entry with no refunded fee if the contact person for a selected film fails to respond to email correspondence from the festival.

All selections will be announced in February 2026. Please no phone calls. If you have questions, please contact our programming team at programming@seattleaaff.org.

By submitting your film to SAAFF, you acknowledge that:

I have read, understood, and complied with all eligibility requirements. All the statements in this document are true. In consideration for the opportunity to be selected into the Seattle Asian American Film Festival, I release and discharge Seattle Asian American Film Festival, its employees, agents, contractors, volunteers, licensees, successors and assigns from any and all claims, demands or causes of actions related to misappropriation or infringement of copyright or violation of any other right arising out of or relating to my submission hereunder. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Seattle Asian American Film Festival from any claims that arise as a result of this submission or screening of my film (should it be selected) as well as from damage to or loss of any submitted materials en route to the festival.

I have all rights necessary and am duly authorized to submit this film to the Festival. This film is not subject to any claims or litigation and is not threatened by any claims or litigation. I understand, as the authorized representative, any prizes will be awarded to the director(s) of the winning films.