Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Film Now Festival? 

The FilmNOW Festival is a regional high school film festival founded in 2015. Originally an international film festival that was open to student filmmakers from all over the world. FilmNOW has shifted its primary focus to showcasing local student filmmakers within the Tri-State Area. Film Now has and always will aspire to motivate and educate young artists to showcase their work in a public setting. 

Why is The Ambler Theater hosting this festival? 

The Ambler Theater is a community based nonprofit movie theater whose mission is to cultivate and curate films with artistic merit. The Ambler believes that displaying the works of local filmmakers and artists creates a stronger bond with their audience. For the past 4 years, The Ambler Theater has had the privilege to host the FilmNOW awards screening & reception. Starting in 2019 they’ve taken up the mantle of running the festival to encourage, motivate, and inspire high school filmmakers within the community.

Who is eligible to submit a film for jurying?  

Students from either Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware who are currently enrolled in high school or its equivalent for the 2023-24 school year are eligible to submit a film for jurying. If you have questions about your eligibility, send us an email at filmnowfestival@gmail.com 

What type of films are right for Film Now?

FilmNOW is a short film festival, meaning that entries must have a running time no longer than ten minutes in length (10:00), including credits. There are three categories: Narrative, Documentary, and Experimental. You can submit a short film made in a media arts class, or create something completely new on your own. Films do not need to have been produced in 2023-24, but the filmmakers must have been in high school when the film was produced and must still be in high school for the 2023-24 school year. 

How do I submit my film?

The FilmNOW Festival is accepting all submissions in digital format through this website or through FilmFreeway.com/FilmNow Read the terms and follow the instructions on the How to Submit page. 

Can I come to the Film Now Festival Screening & Reception?  

Absolutely! Everyone is welcome to attend the public Screening & Reception courtesy of The Ambler Theater on Sunday, April 28, 2024. The event is free of charge.