Join us in 2026 for a one-of-a-kind experience that uplifts neurodivergent voices and showcases the extraordinary talents of filmmakers on the autism spectrum and with special needs.

The Brilliant Minds, Bold Stories Film Festival is more than a screening — it’s a celebration of creativity, inclusion, and powerful storytelling.

Event Highlights

Red Carpet Experience

Step into the spotlight. All filmmakers and guests will walk the red carpet before the screening — photos encouraged.

Top Voted Film Screenings

A curated selection of short films chosen by public vote will be shown on the big screen. These works reflect a diverse range of voices, genres, and perspectives.

Special Guest Appearances

Meet surprise celebrities, industry professionals, and community champions showing up in support of neurodivergent talent.

Holiday Toy Drive

Admission is one new toy valued at $15 or more.

All donations will go to single-parent households raising children with autism or special needs. Help us bring joy and support where it’s needed most.

Awards and Cash Prizes

Winning filmmakers will be honored during the event with custom awards and a cash prize to support their future creative endeavors.

Who Should Submit?

We invite filmmakers on the autism spectrum or with special needs to submit short films in any genre. No experience required.

Timeline

Submissions Open:

To be announced

Submission Deadline:

To be announced

Finalists Announced: 

To be announced

Public Voting: 

To be announced

Notification of Selection: 

To be announced

Festival Dates:

To be announced

Festival Details

  • Dates: 2026 – To be announced
  • Times: To be announced
  • Location: To be announced (Los Angeles area)
  • Admission: To be announced

Film Submissions

We are now accepting short film submissions! We welcome filmmakers who are:

  • Neurodivergent
  • Have physical, cognitive, or developmental disabilities
  • Working on limited or no budgets
  • First-time or emerging filmmakers with unique perspectives

Submission Guidelines

Film Length:

  • 2 to 15 minutes maximum
  • All genres welcome (narrative, documentary, experimental, animation, etc.)

 

Formats Accepted:

  • .MP4 or .MOV format
  • 1080p resolution minimum

 

Content Guidelines:

  • Family-friendly or PG-13 level content (no nudity, graphic violence, or hate speech)
  • Films must be original work with full rights cleared (including music)

 

Who Can Submit:

  • Individuals with special needs or neurodivergent conditions
  • Filmmakers who identify as disabled
  • Low-budget or self-funded filmmakers
  • Schools, programs, or creative groups serving special needs communities

 

Youth Division:

  • Submissions accepted from students under 18 with adult consent
  • Films may be submitted through teachers or guardians

Toy Drive Admission

This is a give-back event:

  • To be announced

Sponsorship & Partnership Opportunities

We welcome mission-aligned individuals, companies, and organizations to support this event.

Sponsorship Tiers Include:

  • Logo placement on all event materials

  • Speaking opportunity at the event

  • Featured spot in printed program and website

  • Inclusion in press & media outreach

For questions, partnership inquiries, or accessibility needs: info@soniclightproductions.com

Submit Your Film

Ready to share your story?

Use the link below to upload your film and complete the submission form.

There is no submission fee.