This year, the films will compete in three categories, each with its own prize: Best Film – 1000 EUR, Emerging Talent – 500 EUR + 2 free entries to one Studio Camera Session, and Audience Favourite – extra screnning during the Award Ceremony.  Additionally, the winner of the Best Film award will receive a custom-designed trophy created by a queer artist from Utrecht.

1. Duration: The film must be no longer than 10 minutes, including credits, with a 1-minute grace period.
2. Queer Representation: The film should contribute to a queer-inclusive film world — for example, through queer creators, queer actors, or a queer perspective in the story.
3. Filmmaker Status: You should be an emerging filmmaker. This means someone who has made, or is planning to make, their (first) queer film and is looking for a stepping stone into the film industry. All ages are welcome! Whether you’re young or old, if this contest inspires you to create a queer film, we warmly invite you to apply. Every generation is encouraged to take part.
4. Production Timeline: The film must have been made in 2024 or 2025 and must not have been shown publicly before. Even if your film is already (almost) finished, it can still be submitted — the only requirement is that it hasn’t been screened at another festival.

Submit your idea, script, scenario, or synopsis (short and sweet is absolutely fine!) by Monday, 30 June 2025, using the submission form on this page. After submitting, you’ll receive regular newsletters and updates about the competition’s progress. Of course, you’re always welcome to contact the QFFU team at 10minute@qffu.nl for questions or guidance.

If we receive more applications than we can accommodate, a selection will be made based on your motivation and project plan.

Shortly after the submission deadline, we’ll host an introductory meeting where participants can meet one another, get to know the Queer Film Festival Utrecht, and officially kick off the competition.

During the filmmaking process, two masterclasses will be offered to support participants in developing their films. These are optional but will cover inspiring and practical topics you won’t want to miss! More details on the masterclasses will be announced soon.

Your completed film must be submitted by Friday, 1 August 2025, at 12:00 PM (noon).

All selected films will premiere on the big screen on Saturday, 30 August 2025, during the Queer Film Festival Utrecht.

From 30 August to 5 September 2025, the films will also be available for public viewing online, where audiences can cast their votes for the Audience Favourite award.

Finally, on Friday, 5 September 2025, we’ll celebrate during a festive closing event, where the winning films will be announced by the jury and screened once more. Be sure to mark these key dates in your calendar!

After the festival, we’ll host a follow-up masterclass focused on how to take your next steps in the film world — a true stepping stone for emerging filmmakers!