Hurry! 9 Essential Tips for Your Next Film Festival Submission

Erin Brown Thomas and the Power of Persistence in Film

Erin Brown Thomas has always been a force to be reckoned with in the world of independent cinema. Her journey began with over 900 submissions to film festivals before she finally broke through into the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, often referred to as the Harvard of indie cinema. As the filmmaker behind "Chasers" and the artistic director of Salute Your Shorts Fest, Brown Thomas has become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers. Her advice, often delivered with a mix of wit and wisdom, reflects her deep understanding of the industry and the challenges it presents.

Brown Thomas's episodic pilot, "Chasers," is a psychologically rich 31-minute oner that explores the personal and professional sacrifices she made to succeed in the entertainment industry. Despite facing numerous obstacles, she finds solace in the Salute community, which fosters artists with unique perspectives and supports authentic storytelling. The festival's mantra, "Films with aftertaste," emphasizes the importance of creating work that leaves a lasting impression.

A Growing Network of Creators

Salute Your Shorts, co-founded by Brown Thomas and Becky Murdoch in 2017, has grown into a significant event in the independent film scene. Held annually at the Assistance League Theater in Los Angeles, the festival offers a unique blend of intimacy and creativity. The venue, known from the TV show "The Office," provides a cozy setting with only 300 seats, making it an ideal space for showcasing emerging talent.

In 2025, the festival received over 1,300 submissions, with around 60 films selected across 16 award categories. Brown Thomas emphasized the importance of having a supportive network, stating that having someone who believes in your work can make all the difference when dealing with rejection. She highlighted that either you learn from the experience or realize that the rejection was unjust, reinforcing the value of a strong support system.

Tips for Successful Festival Submissions

Brown Thomas shared nine essential tips for filmmakers looking to submit their work to festivals, emphasizing the importance of effort, research, and authenticity:

1. Put Real Effort into Your Profile on FilmFreeway
   Creating a compelling profile on FilmFreeway can significantly enhance your visibility. Brown Thomas noted that many filmmakers fail to utilize this platform effectively, even though it can help track submissions and improve your chances of success.

2. Tell Your Film's Story, While Understanding Your Audience
   Filmmakers should communicate their story clearly and understand the audience they are targeting. This helps programmers see the value in your work and increases the likelihood of acceptance.

3. Do Your Research - and Don't Fall for Scams
   Researching festivals is crucial to avoid scams. Brown Thomas warned about the spectrum of fraudulent practices, from events that don't exist to those that lack genuine programming.

4. Pick Your Festivals with Purpose(s)
   Choosing the right festivals can make a big difference. Brown Thomas suggested considering events that offer both networking opportunities and a chance to enjoy the experience.

5. Programming Will Teach You What Kind of Filmmaker You Are
   Programming at festivals can provide valuable insights into your filmmaking style. It helps you understand what resonates with audiences and how to refine your craft.

6. Being Memorable Is More Important Than Being Perfect
   Brown Thomas emphasized that being memorable is more important than perfection. Films that leave a lasting impression, even if not flawless, can stand out in a competitive landscape.

7. Most Shorts Are Too Long, but There's a Sweet Spot
   Finding the right length for a short film is crucial. Brown Thomas noted that while longer shorts can be effective, there is a sweet spot where the content remains engaging without becoming overwhelming.

8. Social Media Feels Like Future Proofing Your Career
   Social media plays a vital role in building a career. Brown Thomas encouraged filmmakers to embrace platforms like Instagram to share their journey and connect with audiences.

9. Salute Your Shorts!
   Finally, Brown Thomas urged filmmakers to appreciate the short film format and seek out communities that support it. She emphasized the importance of enjoying the process and finding joy in the journey.

Winners of Salute Your Shorts Fest 2025

The 2025 edition of Salute Your Shorts Fest recognized a range of outstanding films across various categories. Highlights include:

• Programmers Choice Award: "The Music Store" (dir. Joe Gillette)
• Audience Choice Award: "The Singers" (dir. Sam Davis)
• Narrative Best of Fest: "Live" (dir. Mara Tamkovich)
• Best Genre Film: "Clementine" (dir. Zoe Davidson)

These awards reflect the diverse and innovative storytelling that defines the festival. As Brown Thomas continues to champion the short film art form, her passion and dedication remain evident in every aspect of Salute Your Shorts.