The Chain Reaction Film Festival is a digital festival hosted by Relay Stories — a platform built for powerful, collaborative storytelling.

We’re looking for short films that move people, challenge conventions, and shift perspective. If you’ve made something you truly believe in, this is where it belongs.

This isn’t just another screening. It’s an invitation to be part of a storytelling movement — where films don’t disappear into a feed, but live on in conversation, in impact, in memory.

Selected films will be featured on the Relay Stories platform alongside some of the most compelling work from around the world. We’re building a space for stories that stick.

All genres accepted; submissions must be under 25 minutes (unless submitting in Story Fragment category).

Films must be the original work of the submitter.

You must hold the rights to all visual and audio content in your submission.

By submitting, you allow Relay Stories to feature your film on our app and associated digital channels (you retain full ownership).

English subtitles required if film is not in English.

Submitters will be notified of acceptance via email.

Submission fees are non-refundable.

Selected creators may be asked for promotional materials for release.

The Winning Film wins a $15,000 cash prize.

Selected films will:

Be featured on the Relay Stories platform with our curated slate of globally recognized and emerging creators

Receive official Chain Reaction laurels

Be promoted through our platform, press channels, and community

Be considered for future live events and showcases hosted by Relay

This isn’t just a credit. It’s a way in.