Rules & Guidelines

The Imagine Futures Cinema (Shorts Programme) aims to salute and promote the work of filmmakers based in North West England by providing a platform for short films to be screened in front of an audience in Liverpool City Region. In 2025 and 2026, Imagine Futures Cinema screens specifically in Shakespeare North Playhouse, in Prescot, Knowsley. Join us!

Event overview

> Event Purpose: The Imagine Futures Cinema (Shorts Programme) aims to aplaude and promote the work of filmmakers based in North West England by providing a platform for short films to be screened in front of an audience in Liverpool City Region. In 2025 and 2026, specifically in Shakespeare North Playhouse, in Prescot, Knowsley.

> Event Frequency and Format: Imagine Futures Cinema presents screenings monthly, between September 2025 and February 2026. In each event, a short film, directed by local talent, is screened before a feature film. Before screening both filmes, there’s a Q&A/intro with the filmmakers, if they’re interested and available. 

Screening Themes

| changes in legislation and/or government guidance
| as required by the local safeguarding partnership
| as a result of any other significant change or event.

Submission Guidelines

> Submission Process: All films must be submitted through the Imagine Futures website. Submissions can be completed at any given time, and selected for a screening from the submission date onwards.

> Submission Requirements: Filmmakers must fill out the submission form in full, including all required fields. There’s no submission fee. Films not accompanied by the correct information will not be reviewed.

> File Format: Films must be submitted digitally (MP4, MOV), by a shared link, and meet the resolution requirements (minimum 1080p). If a film does not meet these criteria, it may be disqualified.

> Content Warnings: Filmmakers must disclose any content requiring a viewer discretion warning (e.g., strong language, violence, flashing lights) on the submission form.

Film Selection Process

> Selection Committee: A committee of Imagine Futures team members and project’s volunteers will review all submissions. The selection process is blind, meaning films are evaluated without knowledge of the filmmaker's identity to ensure fairness and objectivity.

> Selection Criteria: Films are evaluated based on creativity, storytelling, technical quality, and alignment with the event feature film/topic. The committee’s decision is final, and feedback on individual films will not be provided.

> Notification: Filmmakers will receive an email notification of their film's selection status. Selected films will also receive detailed instructions on screening logistics and any additional promotional opportunities

Screening Logistics

> Format and Timing: Each event will include a brief introduction/Q&A with attending filmmakers, and the screening of the film.

> Technical Specifications: Filmmakers must ensure their films are formatted correctly and meet all technical requirements. Imagine Futures is not responsible for issues arising from incorrect formatting or submitting low-quality files.

> Attendance: Filmmakers are encouraged to attend the event, especially if their film is being screened. Attendance allows engaging with the audience, participating in the intro/Q&A, and will be given two free complimentary tickets to the event. 

Event Participation and Conduct

> Professional Conduct: All participants and attendees are expected to conduct themselves professionally. Disruptive or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the event.

> Intro/Q&A Sessions: If a filmmaker's film is selected, participation in an intro/Q&A session is not mandatory but welcomed. He/She/They will be invited to present their movie, and share the inspiration behind it. This session is an excellent opportunity to connect with the audience and receive feedback.

Audience Engagement

> Photographs and Filming: Filmmakers and audience members consent to being photographed or filmed by attending the event. Imagine Futures may use these images or recordings for promotional purposes.

Health and Safety Guidelines

> Compliance with Venue Policies: All attendees must comply with the venue's health and safety policies. This includes adhering to any fire safety regulations and other rules set forth by the venue.

> Personal Belongings: Imagine Futures and the event venue are not responsible for any personal belongings lost, stolen, or damaged during the event.

Filmmaker Rights and Responsibilities

> Representation: By participating in the event, filmmakers agree to represent their work truthfully and maintain the event's integrity. This includes providing accurate information about their film and ensuring they have the right to all content. All rights including but not limited to, location permits, music rights, footage etc. must have been obtained in full legality prior to submission, any film found to not have rights to show the film publicly will be removed from the programme and disqualified.

> Promotion: Filmmakers are encouraged to promote their involvement in the screening through their networks and social media. Imagine Futures has the right to use footage from submitted films for marketing purposes.

> Withdrawal: If a filmmaker needs to withdraw their film after it has been selected, they must notify Imagine Futures in writing as soon as possible. This will allow the programming team to adjust the schedule and potentially include an alternative selection. You will need to update us 7 days before the event minimum.

Liability and Indemnification

> Event Changes: Imagine Futures reserves the right to change event details, including date, time, venue, and format, as necessary. 

> Damage to Property: Filmmakers and attendees are responsible for any damage they cause to the venue or equipment. Imagine Futures is not liable for any damages, injuries, or losses sustained during the event.

> Indemnification: Filmmakers agree to indemnify and hold harmless Imagine Futures, its employees, volunteers, sponsors, and affiliates from any claims, damages, liabilities, and expenses arising from their participation in the event.

Agreement to Guidelines

> Acceptance of Guidelines: By submitting a film and/or attending the event, participants agree to abide by all event rules and guidelines. Please comply to avoid exclusion from the event and future events.

> Amendments: Imagine Futures reserves the right to amend these rules and guidelines anytime. Participants will be notified of any changes via the email address provided during submission or registration.