Our chosen theme for 2024 is Belonging, an invitation to think about the places and spaces we find comfort and peace, perhaps even the place we call home. Belonging could be about community, connections and the bonds of shared experience. It might be the case that you struggle to find a sense of belonging, what’s missing? What prevents people from finding that? Tell us what belonging means to you. 

Each year the theme is decided by popular vote, how you choose to interpret this is up to you. The festival judges will be looking for the most original and imaginative approaches to telling stories of recovery. 

 How to enter 

We’re looking for people who want to tell their story in an innovative and creative way. You don’t need to be an expert filmmaker or know any nifty editing tricks; we want imaginative ideas told well. Whether you’re making your film with professional kit or the camera on an old phone, the powerful bit is the story.  

So, spend some time thinking what this year’s theme means to you, plan out your film and what message you what to send and get creating.  

See our ‘how to make a short film’ page for helpful tips and ideas. 

The closing date for 2024 entries is 31st August at 11:59pm.

Submissions will be shortlisted later in the year and the winners selected by a panel our panel of festival judges. 

Previous entries  

The Recovery Street Film Festival has been going for 10 years and the films submitted have been seen over a million times! 

Over the last decade we have seen some amazing entries. From the funny to the moving, the challenging to the inspiring. Everyone who has submitted their film over the years has had a different take on telling their story.  

Check out some of the entries from previous years.