FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

SUBMITTING FILM TO JOIN THE MINIKINO FILM WEEK

Which platforms should I use to submit my short film?

You can submit your work through FilmFreeway or Short Film Depot. You are encouraged to choose the platform that is most convenient for you.

What are the key deadlines for MFW submissions?

The submission period opens on 1 December 2025. Key deadlines include:

Earlybird Deadline: 1 January 2026
Regular Deadline: 9 March 2026
Late Deadline: 6 April 2026
Extended (Final) Deadline: 27 April 2026

Is there a maximum duration for short films?

Yes, the maximum duration is 25 minutes, and no extra seconds are allowed.

What are the eligibility requirements regarding the film's release date?

Short films must have been released or premiered within two years prior to the festival edition. Please refer to the regulations for full details.

Do I need to provide subtitles with my submission?

Films must be presented in their original language. For preview purposes, you may include embedded English subtitles. However, if your film is selected, you must provide English subtitles in a .srt file, along with a “clean” version of the film without burned-in subtitles. Minikino will work on the Bahasa Indonesia subtitles at no additional cost.

Can I get an entry fee waiver or discount?

Waivers and discounts are available under specific conditions and must be requested via email to waiver@minikino.org before submitting:

Indonesian Directors/Producers
Students with proofing document
MFW most recent year alumnies including distributors

What are the premiere requirements for award consideration?

To be eligible for an award, your film must meet specific premiere statuses:

International Awards: Must hold Indonesia Premiere status, meaning it has never been screened in Indonesia outside of Minikino activities before the festival ends.
National Awards (Indonesian Productions): Must hold Bali Premiere status, meaning it has never been screened in Bali outside of Minikino activities.

Are there specific technical requirements for the film file?

The festival prefers Full HD 1080p files (24 or 25 fps) in an H.264 Mp4 container with a minimum 15mbps compression. The presentation format is 16:9 ratio with stereo audio.

When will I know if my film has been selected?

The official notification date for all submitters is stated in the regulations. A film’s selection status is only finalized once the filmmaker has completed the required consent forms and met all technical deadlines. We will notify you by email regardless of the outcome.

ENJOYING MINIKINO FILM WEEK

What can I expect to see at the festival?

Minikino Film Week showcases over 200 short films each year from across the globe. In addition to screenings, you can take part in the Short Film Market, offering opportunities to network, exchange ideas, and connect with industry professionals.

The festival also features an Education program focused on families, children, and school-age youth, with curated screenings, workshops, and activities designed to encourage engagement with short films from an early age.

Do I always need to pay to watch the films?

No. Aside from premium events, the festival offers several “Freebies” that provide free admission to general screenings at open venues. These include Inclusive Cinema, Community Screenings, and the MFW Exhibition. Please check the catalog for full details.

How do I get a Festival Pass and what are the benefits?

You can purchase a Festival Pass, while students receive a 50% discount with a valid ID. to get a pass. A pass grants you access to premium venues like MASH Denpasar, as well as Short Film Market events, the film library, workshops, and exclusive F&B discounts.

What if I want to attend a screening but don't have a pass?

If you don’t have a pass, or if you have reached your daily limit of four programs as a pass holder, you can purchase individual tickets. Tickets are available at the Front Desk on a “pay-what-you-can” basis, with a minimum price.

Where can I find the full schedule?

The complete festival schedule and detailed program information are available at minikino.org/filmweek, where you can also download the festival catalog on pdf.

What are the rules for attending a screening?

To ensure the best experience for everyone, please follow these guidelines:

Arrive early: You should be at the venue at least 15 minutes before the start time.
Late Policy: If you are late, your seat may be given to someone on the waiting list after a 5-minute no-show window.
In-film entry: You may enter the room between films, but never while a film is playing.
No Recording: Cameras and recording devices are strictly prohibited during screenings.

Will I be able to understand the films?

Yes, all films at MFW include both English and Indonesian subtitles. Additionally, specialized Inclusive Cinema Programs provide subtitles for the Deaf and hard of hearing, as well as Indonesian audio description for audiences with vision impairments.

Is the festival family-friendly?

Absolutely! Families are welcome, but please check the age recommendations provided for each program in the festival catalog or website before attending to ensure the content is appropriate for your children.