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Cine Gear 

Film Competition

As we prepare for our 2026 event, we welcome filmmakers to submit their projects to our Film Series. Categories include Music Videos, Independent Short Films, and Student Films. The Film Series at Cine Gear Expo is a great screening experience! We are one of the few festivals in the world to screen on a working film studio lot, and currently the only one in the heart of Hollywood.

2026 Winners
Cinegear Film Series Competition

Film Competition Overview

The Film Series at Cine Gear Expo is where creativity meets opportunity. Each year, filmmakers from around the world share their stories with an audience of industry professionals, innovators, and peers.

Categories Include:

  • Music Video
  • Independent Short Film
  • Student Short Film

Selected projects receive two badges for all screenings, tickets to the VIP Party and Awards Ceremony, and the chance to take home incredible prize packages from leading sponsors.
 

  • In 2025, our Jury Award winners earned nearly $16,000 USD in camera, lighting, and gear from sponsors including Blackmagic Design, DFI Rentals, Driving Plates, Tilta, and Film Craft Studio Gear.
  • Our Audience Award winners received almost $2,000 USD in gear from Nanlux/Nanlite, Fiilex, and more. Plus, all selected filmmakers received a free annual Scriptation subscription (valued at $99 USD).

Entry Dates & Fees

Extended

$75

Feb 16 - Mar 25

Late

$65

Jan 16 - Feb 15

Regular

$50

Dec 1 - Jan 15

Early

$40

Oct 16 - Nov 30

Rules & Terms

For All Categories:

  • Entry fees are nonrefundable.
  • All filmmakers will be notified via email of acceptance—please check your spam folder.
  • Selected films must provide a full EPK (stills, press materials, trailer/teaser, digital poster).
  • Final film files due to AutoDCP no later than May 1, 2026.
  • Entrants cover all shipping fees.
  • Non-English titles must include legible English subtitles.
  • Selection committee and jury decisions are final.
  • Cine Gear Expo, Inc. reserves the right to make changes to regulations or scheduling.

Student Competition Only:

  • You must be a currently registered student and include a copy of your Student ID or proof of enrollment.
  • If you recently graduated (within 2 years), you must have been a student when the film was made.
  • Projects started in school but completed post-graduation must be finished within 6 months of graduation.

By submitting to The Film Series at Cine Gear Expo on FilmFreeway, you agree to these terms. All entries are submitted via the Film Freeway website. When you click the button below be redirects to the FilmFreeway.com website to complete the application.

Entries Closed

Entries are submitted on Film Freeway website

Gabriel Mays

AbelCine Director of Rental

As Director of Rental, Gabriel Mays oversees growth of Rental by nurturing business relationships and unifying the customer experience nationwide. In his previous role as the LA Rental Manager, Gabriel worked with producers, cinematographers, and assistant camera operators to provide the highest level of customer service possible. He also ensured that all their equipment needs are met on budget. Before coming to AbelCine in 2015, Gabriel previously worked as a Communications Instructor and Electronic Media Engineer at a private university. He taught various courses in electronic media, including film, broadcasting, and digital arts. Gabriel is an award-winning cinematographer, director, producer, and editor known for his innovative research and implementation of new film techniques. He was also one of the first to implement HDSLR cameras into filmmaking. He has been the cinematographer on dozens of independent films, documentaries, and music videos.