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 - EXPERIMENTAL

 A Wave From The Ocean Crashing Into Shore, Dir: Jacob Nicholson

Showdown, Dir: Hugo Max

The Absence of Things, Dir: Eoin Murphy

Doll, You’re Smoking…, Dir: Harvey Neale

Pigeon-Livered, Dir: Sophiya Sian

BUDKA, Dir: George Peter Alshevskij-Jones

A Surrealist City Symphony, Dir: Grace May

Yolk of Doom, Dir: Corn Baum

Big Fat Rat, Dir: Skye Pearson

Medlock, Dir: Olivia Briggs

Limbo, Dir: Aliyyah van Koten

Lament, Dir: Ava Oliver

Thick Skin, Dir: Danielle Russell

Oxygen, Dir: Tilda Casey Furubrink

The Trodden Grass, Dir: Chander Ramnarine & Noah Turner

She’s Asking For It, Dir: Natalia Zajączkowska

Burial, Dir: Toma Traian

Overgrown, Dir: Chiara Rivers

Silvae, Dir: Evie Breslin

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.