2026 Theme

Our chosen theme for 2026 is Rewriting the Script.

Everyone has a story.
Sometimes it feels like it’s already been written for us.

But it’s not fixed.  Rewriting the Script is about turning points -  the moments where something shifts, a new choice is made, and a different path opens up.
We’re looking for bold, honest short films that explore recovery, identity, and transformation.  

So - what’s your script?  Who’s in it?  And what happens next?
This is your chance to take control of the narrative.
To flip it. Challenge it. Rewrite it.

Your film can be serious, funny, creative, or completely unexpected - documentary, drama, comedy, animation, music, spoken word, experimental, or something we’ve never seen before.
This is your story. Tell it your way.

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 2026 entries is 23rd August 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.