FILMS FOR THE FOREST

the films

Do you remember watching a film that inspired you to take action? The art of filmmaking can transport us to new places, introduce us to new perspectives, and tell stories that resonate with us on a deeper level. At Rainforest Partnership, we believe in the transformative power of film. This is why we created Films for the Forest, our international film challenge, in 2010.

2024 Contest
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2024 Contest
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While many view forests merely as areas that can be converted into timber or land for livestock and agriculture, in reality, the significance of these vast ecosystems extends far beyond such utilitarian purposes.

Our planet needs forests. 

The daily lives of each of us depend heavily on healthy forests for what we need to survive. Forests, especially Rainforests, contribute to maintaining healthy water systems by acting as natural filters, regulating water flow and rainfall distribution, preventing erosion and desertification, cycling nutrients, regulating temperatures, and supporting overall biodiversity. The impact of forests on the global water cycle cannot be overstated.

Rainforest moves more water than any other ecosystem on land. 

Without forests, the future of food production as we know it would be in great danger. Deforestation greatly alters climate regulation, creating droughts or floods (depending on the area), that directly impact crop productivity. These drastic effects are not limited to the surrounding areas of tropical forest, but impact locations thousands of miles away. 

This year, our objective is to inspire filmmakers to showcase the importance of forests and water through their diverse talents and creative expressions.

Films are expected to fall under the theme for the current year (2023): “Living Forests. Thriving Future.”
All films must be between 1 to 20 minutes in length.
All films must be submitted in English or with English subtitles if in a different language.
Filmmakers agree to have their films screened multiple times within 365 days after the event date. The screenings may take place in front of a live audience within the United States, in international events, and online screenings as curated Films for the Forest content and ensure their licensing will allow such screenings.
Filmmakers agree to allow Films for the Forest to use short clips from their films for promotional, informational, and educational use related to the competition.
To qualify for the Indigenous (IPLC) Category, films must have been created or directed by members of an indigenous community.
Any submissions from those under 18 years of age require adult consent and they must sign a consent form
All submissions confirm they follow the terms and conditions set by FilmFreeway.
If you have submitted your project in the previous year, please do not resubmit the same project to the current Films for the Forest edition.
A film can fall into more than one category. It is up to the filmmaker to choose under which category he/she wishes the film to be judged.
Note: Films for the Forest reserve the right to change the date of the event under special circumstances. All filmmakers will be informed about any changes through email and our online platforms. Films for the Forest also reserve the right to update the current terms and conditions.
Categories of Film

For 2024 we have introduced a new category to complement our five existing favorites:

Have a question? No problem.
Reach out to us at films@rainforestpartnership.org
If you would like to collaborate, contribute to or sponsor Films for the Forest, please email us at films@rainforestpartnership.org.
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