Internationale Short Film Festival Oberhausen

Application guidance

Oberhausen accepts submissions through its online platform, typically with deadlines in late autumn and winter. The festival charges modest entry fees, with discounts for early submissions. Works must have been completed within the last two years and should not have been publicly screened in Germany prior to the festival. The selection process is highly competitive, with thousands of entries vying for around 100 slots across sections. Artists are advised to submit early, ensure their film aligns with the festival's experimental and auteur-driven ethos, and provide accurate metadata. The festival values formal innovation and personal vision over commercial appeal. For German productions, the German Competition offers a distinct opportunity. Keep in mind that Oberhausen is a festival of discovery, so emerging artists are encouraged to apply.