Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year 2027 / Fresh International Film Festival
Rated Advanced, Fresh Film’s annual youth festival invites an original short film and offers screenings plus Ireland’s Young Filmmaker awards. Open to filmmakers aged 7–19, with Junior and Senior age bands and separate Island of Ireland and International entry categories. Entrants must complete a coherent short film within the relevant time limit, balancing story, direction, performance, sound and visual craft for selection and specialist award judging.
Verified information
Competition details can change. Always confirm dates, eligibility and entry requirements on the official organiser's website.
Official website ↗LEVEL BY DIVISION
Advanced Level
Competition overview
Key information
Eligible ages
7–19
School level
Primary and secondary
Registration method
Individual Allowed
Competition stages
Film submission → selection → regional/national screenings and Fresh International Film Festival awards
Fee
€15 for Island of Ireland entries; international entries free
Online / in-person
In-person
Dates
Competition timeline
Registration opens
25 Jun 2026
Registration closes
15 Jan 2027
Competition starts
12 Apr 2027
Competition ends
16 Apr 2027
Editorial perspective
Our Take
Junior films must be under 10 minutes; senior and international films must be under 15 minutes. Films must have been completed after December 2025.
Preparation support
Recommended resources
Fresh Film 2027 Submission Guide
Open resource ↗Current categories, deadlines, film-length rules, awards and submission requirements for young filmmakers.
Official · Free · Rules & submission guide · Essential
Fresh Film Workshops and Resources
Open resource ↗Free workshops on smartphone cinematography, animation, props, costume and other practical production skills.
Official · Free · Filmmaking video library · Essential
2026 Winning Films
Open resource ↗The official winners list with links to completed shorts for studying story, direction, cinematography and sound.
Official · Free · Winning film showcase · Recommended