Every year we receive hundreds of entries into CINEMAGIC YOUNG FILMMAKER from young people wishing to share their stories with a wider audience. In 2025 we received over 700 short film submissions from the next generation of young creatives, from throughout the UK and Ireland, and we a delighted to share with you the competition shortlists.

SHORTLIST – DRAMA 1

Daydreaming, Dir: David McCall

Seabird, Dir: Eva Churchill

Overtime, Dir: Munk

Afterimage, Dir: Nathan Roaf

On Dissonance, Dir: Marcelo Seguí Gill

Type Of Rain, Dir: Saskia Steinberg

Seen, Dir: Elian Beaumont

Scheduling My Grief, Dir: Dinah Naitamu

Two Women, One Lobster, Dir: Bethan Radford

Bonfire, Dir: Jake Mark

Crossroads, Dir: Muhammed Bittaye

Better When You’re Dancing, Dir: Kyra Owers

Little Explosion, Dir: Gabriel Ng

Content warning: This package contains flashing images which may affect viewers who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy.

Age Suitability: This shorts package has been given an age recommendation of 18+ due to adult themes and strong language.