We aim to celebrate independent films and showcase the artistry and creativity of independent filmmakers. Strengthening the bonds between Japanese and foreign filmmakers is our greatest aspiration. We also strive to prioritize filmmakers by promoting them, their artistic expression and creativity.

Our Festival

Inspired by the elegance, culture & refinement of bon dance and history, action & high energy of Ninjas, the essence of BonDance International Film Festival exemplifies the backbone of Japanese culture. Located at Hizen Yume Kaidou Ninja village, in Saga Japan, this festival is made possible by the community of Saga.

Our Programs

We showcase film categories such as Kids, Drama, Sci-fi, Comedy, Thriller, Documentary and many more. Our films and guests are from Japan and abroad. All films shown will be subtitled in Japanese and English.

Our Location

Hizen Yume Kaido Ninja Village located in Ureshino City, Saga Prefecture, is a theme park loved by the locals and is frequently used as a location for TV and movies. The adjacent Ureshino Onsen has been known as a famous hot spring since ancient times. This location near the center of Kyushu boasts great access to all other tourist destinations.

BonDance International Film Festival

Events

DATES & DEADLINES

Opening Date:
– October 22, 2023

Earlybird 1:
– November 5, 2023

Earlybird 2:
– December 3, 2023

Earlybird 3:
– December 31, 2023

Regular 1:
– January 28, 2024

Regular 2:
– February 25, 2024

Regular 3:
– March 24, 2024

Extended 1:
– April 21, 2024

Extended 2:
– May 19, 2024

Extended 3:
– June 16, 2024

Notification Date:
– July 14, 2024

Event Dates:
– September 14 – 16, 2024

CATEGORIES

Best Feature (Live Action)
Best Feature (Animation)
Best Feature (Documentary)
Best Short (Live Action)
Best Short (Animation)
Best Short (Documentary)
Best Film for Kids
Best Film of Japan
Best Music Video

Awards

Best Feature (Live Action)
Best Feature (Animation)
Best Feature (Documentary)
Best Short (Live Action)
Best Short (Animation)
Best Short (Documentary)
Best Film for Kids
Best Film of Japan
Best Music Video

No prize money involved.

Rules

-We accept all genres.
-We accept multiple-category submissions.
-Feature films must be longer than 40 minutes. Short films must be 40 minutes or shorter.
-mp4 (H.264) is the preferred exhibition format for the festival.
-For programming consideration, the festival only accepts online screeners via FilmFreeway. WE DO NOT ACCEPT DVD OR BD SUBMISSIONS.
-After submitting, please check your FilmFreeway account to make sure that your submission meets our requirements and is ‘In Consideration’. It is your responsibility to make sure all requirements are met, and necessary information is given.
-We do not accept works in progress.
-All the rights related to the submitted film must belong to the applicant.
-Those whom we deem overly violent, abusive, thoughtless or outrageous without the respect for human rights or animal rights will be disqualified.
-Films in non-English languages must have English subtitles.
Submissions are deemed to be offers for screening. If we officially select one, that is the acceptance which forms a mutual agreement to screen unless it is withdrawn.
-Once officially selected, it cannot be withdrawn from the festival program during the event.
-All the paid fees are non-refundable for any reasons.
-Still photos, a brief synopsis, a poster and a trailer should be added to the project for the film’s promotional purpose.
-We will send your digital winner certificate free of charge.
-All the shipping costs regarding the award-winning film, if any, must be borne by the applicant.
-By submitting, you agree to allow us to use the materials such as trailers, posters, images etc. for the purpose of advertising your film and our events (web, printed media, and television etc.), and to share them with our partner festivals for promotional purposes.
-By submitting, you warrant that you have read, understood, and agreed to the regulations of the BonDance International Film Festival and that, to the best of your knowledge, the information that you have supplied is correct.
-We reserve the right to add, modify, or discard rules and terms, if needed, as needed, at any time, at its sole discretion, with or without notification.

BonDance International Film Festival

CALL FOR ENTRIES !

We can't wait to see your work