Runtime
4 to 8 minutes for the film, plus up to 1 minute of credits.
2026/2027 season registration is now open!
We are a Minnesota-based film challenge designed to keep filmmaking fun, welcoming, and community-driven. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, we’re here to help you get your work on the big screen.
The Challenge: Teams have eight months to create and submit a short film (between 4 and 8 minutes long). Season begins in June and ends in February.
The Premiere: Every film submitted gets a big-screen premiere at a Twin Cities theater in the spring.
The Awards Gala: Our season ends with a red carpet event to celebrate our regional talent. We hand out dozens of awards, including trophies, certificates and cash prizes.
Community First: We are 100% volunteer-run. Our goal is to build a space where local creators can connect and grow together.
North Star Film Festival is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Your donations help support screenings, filmmaker opportunities, and community film events.
Choose one or include them all. The control element does not need to be heavily featured. It simply has to be included in a frame of your film, NOT simply added in post. The control element exists to prove that your film was created for the festival within the time frame of the competition. If you have questions about control elements, email hello@northstarfestival.com for clarification.
Important Information
Everything teams need to know for this season, from registration to Gala night.
4 to 8 minutes for the film, plus up to 1 minute of credits.
Early Bird: $100
Regular: $125
Late: $150
Procrastinator: $175
Dates listed above
Trophies awarded for most categories.
Certificates awarded for audience choice and trailer contest.
Film Prizes
$600 1st place · $400 2nd place · $200 3rd place
Trailer Contest Prizes
$100 1st place · $75 2nd · $50 3rd
✦ All dates are tentative and subject to change. Stay updated at NorthStarFestival.com
Want to help out?