Shires

1-Minute Film Festival

Returns for 2026!

One minute. One story. Your chance to create something creative, local, funny, heartfelt, weird, or completely unexpected.

Whether you’re a student filmmaker, first-time creator, or experienced storyteller, the Shires 1-Minute Film Fest is all about celebrating creativity through short-form video.

Learn More!

About the Festival

The Shires 1-Minute Film Fest invites filmmakers of all ages and experience levels to create an original short film that is 60 seconds or less.

Created by CAT-TV and GNAT-TV, the festival celebrates local storytelling, creativity, and community through the art of short-form filmmaking. Films can be funny, dramatic, experimental, animated, documentary-style, or completely outside the box.

No fancy equipment required — phones, cameras, tablets, and beginner editing tools are all welcome.

How it Works!

Make a Film

Create an original video that is one minute or less. Be sure to check Film Freeway for the details on what to include

Submit on Film Freeway

Upload your film through FilmFreeway once submissions officially open.

Join the Screening!

Films will be showcased as part of the 2026 Shires 1-Minute Film Fest screening event.

Who Can Enter?

Open to:

  • Students

  • Adults

  • Families

  • Community members

  • First-time filmmakers

  • Experienced creators

Film Guidelines

Films must:

  • Be 60 seconds or less

  • Be original work

  • Be appropriate for a public community screening

  • Be submitted by the posted deadline

  • Use the Theme and or Dialog Choices (info on Film Freeway!)

Important Dates

Submissions Open

  • May 2026

Festival Screening

  • October 17

  • Bennington Theatre

All submitters are welcome!

No fancy equipment required — phones, cameras, tablets, and simple editing tools are all welcome. The goal is creativity, storytelling, and having fun making something unique in just sixty seconds.

Ready to tell your story in one minute?

Start brainstorming now and check out Film Freeway for all the details. Remember, if you need any help or equipment CAT-TV and GNAT have you covered! Simply reach out and let us know what you need and we’ll make it happen!

PRESENTED BY

Presented in partnership by:

CAT-TV + GNAT-TV

Celebrating local storytelling and community media throughout Southern Vermont.