Howdy filmmakers and lovers of the moving picture!

Welcome to The Best of The West Fest...(and the rest) Film Festival!

Saddle up and mosey on down to our friendly, intimate night celebrating short films from the finest West Midlands filmmakers and beyond!

It's our first year on the frontier and we are mighty keen to rustle up a whip-cracking schedule of stories! From seasoned trailblazers to fresh-faced newcomers, we welcome submissions from anyone brave enough to step into the saddle.

Was your film made in the West Midlands?
We want it!
Does your film have Western vibes?
We want it!
Or do you just like the look of us?
Well, partner, we'd be mighty honoured to receive your submission.

For one night only, on 17th April 2027, we'll be gathering at the studio in the beautiful Palace Theatre, Redditch for a darn-tootin' night of networking, awards and some silver screen magic.

Will there be bull riding?
Probably not!
Will there be a prize-winning filmmaker sitting proudly atop an imaginary bull as they ride into the sunset?
You’d better believe it.

So dust off your shooter, grab the bull by the horns and submit your film. We can't wait to watch 'em. Yeehaw, partner!

Please check our rules before hitching your wagon.

Deadline for submissions: 20th December 2026

For more information, full terms and conditions and to submit your short film please click the book now button which will take you to the FilmFreeway website.

Awards & Prizes
The Best of the West Fest (and the rest) Film Festival gives away the following prizes:

Best of the West Fest - Best Short Film with a West Midlands connection
Best of the Rest - Best International Short Film from our open category
Best Student - Best Student Film
Best Buckaroo - Our wildcard award.