True Crime Film Festival

True crime has the power to expose injustice, amplify unheard voices, and shed light on mysteries that demand answers. At True Crime Fest, we celebrate the art of true crime storytelling through the lens of filmmakers who dare to explore the darkest corners of human nature, the pursuit of justice, and the resilience of those seeking the truth.

 

​This festival is dedicated to true crime documentaries—long and short—created by filmmakers who are passionate about telling real stories that matter. Whether uncovering a long-forgotten cold case, exposing corruption, or bringing new insights into well-known crimes, True Crime Fest is the platform to share your work with a community that seeks justice, truth, and compelling storytelling.

 

​Now accepting submissions for the 2025 festival. Join us as we honor investigative filmmaking and bring the most gripping true crime stories to the screen.

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Submission Guidelines

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📽️ Eligibility:

• Submissions must be true crime documentaries, featuring real cases, investigations, or true crime-related themes.

• All submissions must be original works created by the submitting filmmaker(s).

• Films must not infringe upon any copyright laws or legal restrictions.

• International submissions are welcome, but all non-English films must include English subtitles.

🎥 Film Categories:

• Short Documentaries: 10–40 minutes in length

• Feature-Length Documentaries: 41–120 minutes in length

📝 Technical Requirements:

• Films must be submitted in high-definition digital format (.MP4 or .MOV preferred).

• Clear audio and quality production values are required.

• All necessary rights, including music, archival footage, and interviews, must be secured by the filmmaker(s).

💰 Submission Fee:

• $30 per submission (non-refundable)

📅 Deadline to Submit:

• March 1, 2025

🎞️ How to Submit:

• Submit your film via: True Crime Fest - FilmFreeway

• Ensure all required materials are included, including a brief synopsis, filmmaker bio, and high-resolution film poster.

🏆 Awards & Recognition:

• Selected films will be screened at True Crime Fest 2025 and will have the opportunity to compete for awards in various categories, including Best True Crime Documentary and Audience Choice Award.

🔍 Why Submit?

• Get your work in front of true crime enthusiasts, filmmakers, and industry professionals.

• Gain exposure and recognition for your investigative storytelling.

• Be part of an event that amplifies true crime stories and their impact on justice.​

Are you ready to bring your true crime story to life? Submit today and be a part of a festival that celebrates truth, justice, and the power of documentary storytelling.

📧 Questions? Contact us through FilmFreeway!