Rules

Watching films

The programme, the Vertical Room and most films are open to everyone — no account, no charge. Signing in (an email address, no password) is only needed to like films so your vote counts, and for the few films whose makers asked to screen behind a free sign-in. Some films screen for the jury only.

Each film is available for the period agreed with its filmmaker. When a film’s screening window ends, it comes offline automatically.

Prizes

Cash prizes are paid to the film’s registered filmmaker within 30 days of results being announced. All awards, including cash prizes, are presented at HNIFF’s discretion under the rules above.

Judging

Films are reviewed by HNIFF’s jury. Judges score independently and never see each other’s scores; a judge with a connection to a film steps back from it. Jury decisions are final.