[Montclair First Features]
Debut short films from first-time directors
About the night
The first program of the season is reserved for first-time directors. Bring your community.
Program
- Doors open6:15 PM
- Program begins12:00 AM
- Screenings6 films · 1h 28m
- Q&AModerated conversation with filmmakers
Participating creators
Submission details
Submission deadline
Fri, Dec 11, 2026
Max runtime
15 minutes
Submission fee
$10
Eligible categories
Drama, Documentary, Experimental
Eligibility
- First short film by the director
- Under 15 minutes
FAQ
＋Can I submit a film I've screened elsewhere?
Yes. We accept films that have played at other festivals or online — as long as you retain screening rights for this event.
＋Do I need to attend in person?
We strongly encourage it. Part of the point is you meeting your audience and other filmmakers. If travel isn't possible, let us know when you accept the invitation.
＋How many guests can I invite?
Every accepted creator gets a guest allocation. You can also purchase additional tickets at a creator-guest rate.
＋What happens after I submit?
Our curation team reviews every submission. You'll be notified with a status update within three weeks of the submission deadline.