1. It’s all about TREATING FILMMAKERS WITH RESPECT.
Filmmakers who attend DC Shorts not only enjoy parties and city tours, but also receive complimentary housing, meals and local transportation. Most importantly, they enjoy the opportunity to meet and learn from other filmmakers—an experience that comes from a showcase dedicated to short films and the people who make them.
 
2. It’s all about UNDERSTANDING THE JUDGING PROCESS.
Why didn’t your film or script get in? What were the judges looking for? DC Shorts lets you know. Before you apply, we provide not only the rules of competition which explain the judging process, but offer a comprehensive article with information and tips about films that have made it or been rejected in the past. After the judging process, DC Shorts provides direct feedback from the judges to EVERY filmmaker through our online review system in which your scores and comments can be viewed. This is one of the reasons DC Shorts was named as “one of 25 festivals worth an entry fee” by Moviemaker Magazine – 2 years in a row!
 
3. It’s all about PROFESSIONAL PROJECTION.
DC Shorts prides itself on the clearest digital projection available. Your film will be carefully and meticulously digitally mastered for projection through a sophisticated projection system we developed. Our theaters project in high definition for ultra-clear images as you intended your HD film to play.
 
4. It’s all about WATCHING FILMS.
At other festivals, if you want to see other films, you need to cough up money for another ticket. DC Shorts provides an all-inclusive pass so filmmakers and their friends can watch, discuss, relax and enjoy themselves without any extra cost.
 
5. It’s all about QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.
At a typical film festival, the audience can’t wait for the film to start. At DC Shorts, they can’t wait for it to be over. That’s when they can learn more about your film—from you—in a professionally moderated discussion. Our moderators spend time with you before the festival to understand your film and process—which allows them to ask the probing questions filmmakers and audiences really want to know.
 
6. It’s all about the CAMARADERIE.
Filmmakers who have attended past DC Shorts have made connections that stand the test of time. Many have collaborated after the festival to work on new projects, new ventures — and even new relationships. Now, that’s spreading the love around!
 
7. It’s all about the LEARNING.
During the festival, we offer FREE SEMINARS for filmmakers in subjects as diverse as screenwriting, ultra-low budget shooting, working within the system and more — taught by industry professionals and film leaders.