Festival overviewAbout Universe Multicultural Film Festival
Physical film festival in CA, United States with submission categories including UMFF Short Films and UMFF Feature Films.
The Universe Multicultural Film Festival seeks to bring to the best of classic and contemporary filmmaking from the world; Committed to enlightening the public with a unique international film program, a forum for cultural understanding and enriching educational opportunities.
The Festival focuses on showcasing diverse cultural and heritages films, supports the creation and advancement of innovative and artistic cinematic works of both emerging and seasoned filmmakers and proudly embraces the passion, independent spirit and vision of these talented artists.
With the integration of the local community and educational institutions into all aspects of the Festival, the Festival stimulates an interest in the study and appreciation of film and encourages people of all ages and background to participate and share the harmony universe.
Important Dates
- Call for Entries Opens
- Jun 26, 2026
- Final Submission Deadline
- May 8, 2027
- Notification Date
- May 10, 2027
- Festival Starts
- Jun 4, 2027
- Festival Ends
- Jun 6, 2027
RecognitionAwards & Prizes
Best Feature Grand Jury PrizeBest ShortBest Achievement in DirectingBest ScreenplayBest Actor in A Leading RoleBest Actress in A Leading Role Rising Star Award Culture Heritage Film AwardBest CinematographyBest Animated FilmBest Documentary - FeatureBest Documentary - ShortBest Comedy - FeatureBest Comedy - ShortBest Musical FilmBest Music VideoBest TVBest Children's Film Screenplay Competition - Screenplay Award Make A Difference AwardBest Original Film Song
EligibilityRules & Eligibility
General Rules+
Competition is open to films that abide by the Universe Multicultural Film Festival (UMFF) Vision Statement
All film entries must be in English, or dubbed or subtitled in English.
All film entries must have been completed after September 2023 to be eligible for the 2026 competition. Other films may be screened "for presentation only." Student Films are produced by students who have attended an accredited or Certified professional film school at a collegiate, university or certificate presenting institution or school.
The producers of all Finally Selections screened by UMFF may use the opportunity for marketing their films to domestic and international distributors. Promotional guidelines are available from UMFF. After every screening, the producers/cast members are invited to a Q& A session with the attending audience.
Submission package: All film entries must include 3 screening DVD's (NTSC only), the entry fee, and a CD with the following items: (1) completed entry form, (2) up to a 50 word synopsis, (3) proof of ownership (WGA or copyright), (4) Director's resume, and (5) resumes of principals. The Press Kit (including production stills and poster) is for UMFF display during the festival. It will be requested upon "Final l Selection" notification to the film's producer. Incomplete forms may cause delays.
Submission material will not be returned.
All 2025 film & screenplay entrants grant the UMFF, the right to copy part of their production/project for judging, exhibition, broadcast, website, for UMFF promotional purposes.
No film may be withdrawn from competition after May 18, 2026. All entry fees are non-refundable.
UMFFF reserves the right to adjust the film schedule. Dates and times of film screenings at
Current Categories, Deadlines & Fees
CategoryUMFF Short Films
UMFF Short Films currently lists a maximum runtime of 45 minutes. Listed fees include USD 50 early-bird, USD 70 regular, USD 90 late, and USD 100 extended.
Current FeeUSD 50.00Early
RuntimeMaximum runtime: 45 minutes
CategoryUMFF Feature Films
Current FeeUSD 70.00Early
RuntimeMaximum runtime: 120 minutes
CategoryMusic Video
Music Video currently lists a maximum runtime of 20 minutes. Listed fees include USD 20 early-bird, USD 40 regular, USD 40 late, and USD 50 extended.
Current FeeUSD 20.00Early
RuntimeMaximum runtime: 20 minutes
CategoryYouth-made Films
film make by age 18 and yonger
Current FeeUSD 20.00Early
CategoryUMFF Short Screenplay
screenplay less than 45 page
Current FeeUSD 30.00Early
CategoryUMFF Feature Screenplay
screenplay from 45-120 page
Current FeeUSD 65.00Early
CategoryTV Episode
TV Episode currently lists a maximum runtime of 45 minutes. Listed fees include USD 50 early-bird, USD 70 regular, USD 90 late, and USD 100 extended.
Current FeeUSD 50.00Early
RuntimeMaximum runtime: 45 minutes
