Small Moments. Big Impact.

CHATTING OVER THE FENCE is a screening of DIY short films made by anyone, anywhere. Sponsored by Pivot Arts, this festival celebrates the stories, perspectives, and creative sparks found right outside your door. So grab your phone, your selfie stick, and your ring light, and capture a moment. Then submit your microfilm for a chance to be screened in front of a live audience at the Wirtz Center in Chicago.

Anyone can submit — no experience, prerequisites, or entry fee required

🌿 All films must be 5 minutes or less.

🏡Your film should embody the spirit of Chatting Over the Fence — intimate, human, community-rooted storytelling, and autobiographical in nature.

🎞Narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, and genre-defying formats are all welcome.

🪟 Already made something that fits? We’ll take it!

🌻 There is no compensation for selected films. Selected filmmakers will be announced and featured in our digital program, and their work will be screened for a live audience at the Wirtz Center in Chicago on June 27th.

Submissions now open!

Deadline to submit:

May 25th | MIDNIGHT