Be Part of Seen on the Scene IV

This is where the best independent work gets seen.

Seen on the Scene brings together independent filmmakers, creators, and audiences for ONE DAY of discovery. It’s an event championing bold ideas, original voices, and projects ready to move forward.

If you’re building something you believe in, this is your moment to put it in front of the people who will support you at every level.

Submit your film and step onto the scene. October 3, 2026.

WHY FILMMAKERS CHOOSE SOTS

 

You did not make your film to get buried in a packed festival schedule. We curate with intention. One day. One room. All eyes on your art.

Seen on the Scene IV brings your work in front of an audience that includes sports media personalities, Oscar-qualified directors, award-winning writers with major streaming credits, and entertainment professionals who are actively looking for who is up next.

Selected filmmakers receive:

  • A curated screening at the Glorya Kaufman Performing Arts Center
  • A live panel discussion with professional moderation
  • Direct access to an industry audience that funds, distributes, and greenlights projects
  • Eligibility for the Palma Diamant, our audience-voted award presented at the closing ceremony, now accompanied by a $5,000 grand prize
 
New Category Announcement
Seen on the Scene introduces What We Watch Sports, a short film category built around the stories inside the game. Sports storytelling has grown far beyond the highlight reel, and this year, we’re giving it a home. It’s an open call for short films, narrative or documentary, 20 minutes or under, about the people who make the game what it is: athletes, coaches, families, and fans. Submit by September 7th for a chance to premiere at GKPAC on October 3rd and compete for the category’s $2,500 grand prize.
 

Our alumni have gone on to secure multi-million-dollar production budgets, secure deals with major streaming platforms, and win awards at internationally recognized festivals. We take pride in being part of the room where their next chapter began.

One day. The right room. This is what you’ve earned. 

JOIN OUR SEEN ON THE SCENE ALUMNI · Javicia Leslie · Kev On Stage · Julissa Bermudez · Jordyn Rolling · Jordan Riggs · Anthony James · Darron Savage · Joy Taylor · Nya Estep · Melissa Ramon · Tiger A.J. Ray · Jason Wallace · Nat Anglin · Brian Regal · Chaz Bottoms · Rei · Richie Kamtchoum · Rodney Rikai · Nina Lee · Kayla Johnson · Tory Devon Smith · Shayla Racquel · Armie Hicks Jr · Joshua Neal · Adrian Wallace · Taj Rani · Reagan Gomez · Caroline Renard · Tyler Garcia · Bee-B · Kwame Wiafe · Najah Elessie · Mark JP Hood · Jasmin Luv · Tahir Moore · Quin Walters · Eduardo Acosta · Rocio Lopez · Liz Lafontant · Deric Augustine · Jonathon Jacobs · Dawn Aneada · Danielle Banks · Aleah Quiñoes · AND YOU

Entry Timeline

Early Bird Submission

Apply before June 19, 2026 for our lowest entry fee.
$65
$ 40
  • DEADLINE: JUNE 19
Priority consideration during review. Our lowest rate of the season.
CLOSED

Regular Submission

Apply before July 16, 2026.
$ 65
  • DEADLINE: JULY 16
Standard review process. Strong submissions still welcome.
CLOSED

Late Submission

Apply before July 31, 2026. Final deadline.
$ 75
  • DEADLINE: JULY 31
Final call. Submit before doors close on Seen on the Scene IV.
CLOSED

What We Watch Sports Submission

Apply by September 7. Final deadline.
$ 35
  • DEADLINE: September 7
Submit for the chance to take home $2,500.

Before You Submit

Take a few extra minutes to present your project clearly and completely.

This helps the committee review your work with the attention it deserves and represent it in the strongest possible way.

  • Upload your final cut whenever possible
  • Write a clear and compelling project description
  • Share links to your social media and any relevant work
  • Include any context that helps us understand your vision

Early submissions are encouraged. It gives your project more time and consideration during the review process.

Eligibility

  • Open to filmmakers worldwide.
  • All film categories and genres are accepted. – Short films must have a maximum runtime of 20 minutes.
  • Films must have been completed after January 1, 2022, to be eligible.
  • Films may have previously screened at other festivals, on streaming platforms, or online.
  • Submissions must be in English or include English subtitles.

If your project is ready for the big screen, submit it now.

What We Watch invites you to showcase your short film, show, or project at our FOURTH ANNUAL FILM FESTIVAL! We're back AGAIN to celebrate the extraordinary talent in our communities.

This year's theme, "THE GOAT" celebrates how all roads lead to film. We're looking for stories that reflect your work ethic and dedication to filmmaking. Think about how the greatest of all time in music, sports, medicine, and even culinary arts, end up on the big screen alongside amazing storytellers like you.

How does your project emphasize how all roads lead to film? What stories from your GOATs have inspired you?


Please complete the form below. If you have any questions please email management @ whatwewatch dot net
Show us how you’re shaping the future of filmmaking. Thank you for sharing the stories we enjoy on screen!
Please note that priority submission approval will be given to those that can have at least 1 panelist join the discussion of the project submitted in person.
Based on the question above, who will be able to attend?
Check all that apply
Your Name
We will use this to communicate with you day of the film festival if you're selected. If you are not selected you will be notified via email.
Email
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload You can upload up to 2 files.
This may take a moment. Do not close or refresh the page. Recommended formatting: 1080p; ; export up to 4K resolution. ProRes preferred. .MOV files are suggested but MP4 files will suffice. Sound can be stereo or surround sound.
If your file is too large to load please provide a website or private link to download your project. Include any passwords or access codes in the space below. The link and associated comments will be securely submitted.
Submission Agreement
Feel free to upload any passwords, access codes, or any additional questions here.
Price: $35.00
This fee is non-refundable.

What's Next

If selected, you will receive a detailed onboarding email by August 24, 2026, with everything you need to prepare, including panel participation details, screening logistics, and event day information.

Questions in the meantime can be directed to management @ whatwewatch dot net. We review every submission with care. Thank you for trusting us with your work.

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