Genesis Cinema, 4-9 May

BUFF is a BAFTA, BIFA, AMAA and Iris Prize qualifying festival. Now in our 21st year, submitting your work means your film or script could not only premiere at BUFF 2026 but also become eligible for major international awards.


From 2026, BUFF will introduce a new revenue participation and reporting model for selected feature films screening in-person at the festival.

Participating filmmakers will receive 70% of the net box office from qualifying screenings after the cinema split, alongside a verified post-festival sales report detailing ticket sales and audience engagement.

This initiative reflects our belief that independent filmmakers should benefit directly from audience demand and have access to credible market data that can support future distribution and financing conversations.

We believe that with this new approach, independent films not only continue to get made, but meaningfully seen.

Deadlines & Eligibility

  • Submissions for BUFF 2026 are now open.

  • Eligible categories:

    • Short Films (under 45 mins)

    • Feature Films (45-120 mins)

    • Documentaries

    • Animation

    • Music videos, TV & Web pilots

    • Short & Feature-length Scripts or Screenplays (20-120 pages)

How to Submit

You can enter your film or script in two simple ways:

Option 1 – Through Platforms

Option 2 – Direct to BUFF

  1. Pay your submission fee via PayPal (choose the correct category below).

  2. Email your file/link + synopsis, 2 film stills, key art poster, trailer, cast & crew credits, social media accounts and/or website to submit@buffestival.com  with proof of payment (students must provide proof of eligibility).

  3. Pay your student submission fee via PayPal

Submission Fees (per entry)

(Fees are non-refundable.)

July 3 – August 30, 2025: 
Standard Fee £20
Student Fee £10
 
September 1 – 30, 2025: 
Standard Fee £30
Student Fee £20
October 1 – 30, 2025: 
Standard Fee £40 
Student Fee £30
 
October 31 – November 30, 2025: Standard Fee £50
Student Fee £40
December 1 – 30, 2025: 
Standard Fee £60
Student Fee £50
 
December 31 – January 30, 2026: 
Standard Fee £70
Student Fee £60
 
January 31 – February 28, 2026: Standard Fee £80
Student Fee £70

Pay securely via PayPal 

Rules & Formats

  • Films must be submitted in MP4 formats.

  • Scripts must be in PDF format.

  • English subtitles required for all non-English dialogue.

  • By submitting, you confirm you have full rights to your work.

  • Submissions are final – no refunds and no waivers.

Questions?

Contact: submit@buffestival.com
We aim to respond to all queries within 72 hours.

Why Submit to BUFF?

  • Award-qualifying platform: BAFTA, BIFA, AMAA, Iris Prize, BUFF Awards.

  • Exposure: Showcase your work to industry professionals, press, and audiences.

  • Track record: BUFF alumni include films and filmmakers who have gone on to Netflix, BBC, Amazon, and theatrical release.

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