Raintown Short Film Competition 2026
The Raintown Short Film Competition has been the main programme of the annual Raintown Film Festival in Taiping Perak since 2025. The competition provides a platform for creativity and connects filmmakers from diverse backgrounds, encouraging innovative storytelling through short films.
Following the success of the previous edition, the Raintown Short Film Competition 2026 is back! Filmmakers are invited to create short films of under 10 minutes based on the theme “After the Rain”. Submissions are open to professionals, students, and amateurs alike, inviting explorations of transformation, renewal, and the emotions that emerge after rainfall, whether literal or metaphorical.
20 shortlisted films will be screened during the 3rd Raintown Film Festival 2026 in Taiping, Perak, taking place in early September. These films will compete in 8 award categories, including the top honour, The Rainmaker Award. The Best Short Film will receive a cash prize of RM8,000, along with sound equipment sponsored by CK Music, with additional prizes to be announced. Shortlisted filmmakers will be invited to Taiping for the three-day festival, where their films will be showcased on the big screen.
Let’s make a short film and visit Taiping this year!
3 Malaysian filmmakers will serve as the finalist jury members, deciding the winners for 8 award categories from the Top 20 shortlisted short films, including The Rainmaker Award, Best Short Film, Special Mention, Best Director, Best Script, Best Cinematography, Best Sound, and Best Editing. Who will be the jury members? Stay tuned!
5 selection committee members from diverse backgrounds, including director, writer, actress, producer, and cinephile, will review all submissions and finalize the Top 20 films, which will then compete for the 8 award categories. Who will be on the selection committee? Stay tuned!
Who can join this competition?
Everyone! Whether you’re a film student, amateur, professional filmmaker, young child, or retiree, you’re welcome to participate.
Is there an entry fee?
No. Submission is completely free, save your budget for making the film.
Can I submit more than one short film?
Definitely!
Can I submit an old short film?
Yes, as long as it meets the requirements, such as nationality and theme. However, we encourage creating a new film to showcase your current creativity.
What types of films are accepted?
We accept all types and genres: documentary, narrative, animation, AI short films, experimental films, music videos, PSAs, photo-films, and more. As long as it incorporates the “After the Rain” theme, you’re free to be creative!
Does the shooting location have to be in Taiping?
No. You may shoot your film anywhere, as long as it reflects our theme “After The Rain”.
I am Malaysian but currently living overseas. Can I still participate?
Yes! You may shoot your film anywhere. Non-Malaysians residing in Malaysia are also welcome to join.
Does the short film have to show actual rain?
Not necessarily. You can interpret “After The Rain” creatively – metaphorical or symbolic representations are all acceptable.
Will you help obtain permits for shooting?
No, you are responsible for securing any necessary permits yourself.
Can I submit the form first and update the film link later?
We recommend preparing all information before submission. You can fill out the form offline first, then submit it in one go once all details are ready.
Can I use copyrighted music in my film?
For narrative short films, please use royalty-free music or obtain permission for any copyrighted tracks. For music videos, all copyright matters must be cleared in advance. The festival is not responsible for any copyright issues.
What happens after submission?
We will select the Top 20 films to be screened at the 3rd Raintown Film Festival in Taiping in early September 2026. The winners will be announced during the closing ceremony.
Are There Awards and Cash Prizes?
Yes! There will be a total of eight award categories, including the top honour, The Rainmaker Award. The Best Short Film will receive a cash prize of RM8,000, along with sound equipment sponsored by CK Music, with additional prizes to be announced.
Will the deadline be extended?
No, to be fair to all participants, the deadline of 14th June 2026, 11:59 PM is final. 3 months is considered enough time to complete a short film, from preparation to post-production.
Any other questions?
You can email us at raintownfilmfestival@gmail.com or send a private message on Facebook or Instagram at Raintown Film Festival, or leave your question in the comment box on our social media posts.
