A promotional video for This is Shanghai global short video collection initiative. [Video/WeChat account: shanghaifabu]

From June 24 to Oct 31, the global short video initiative, This is Shanghai, invites creators from around the world to submit original short videos or micro-documentaries, each no longer than five minutes, that capture the city's dynamic spirit and cultural diversity. A total of 24 outstanding entries will be selected for cash prizes and promotional support.

Campaign themes

The competition centers around five thematic categories:

• City Charm — Iconic views and vibrant scenes, from the Bund at sunrise to futuristic skylines and historic alleys.
• City Taste — The city's rich culinary culture, from traditional street food to modern gastronomy.
• City People — Portraits of everyday individuals who embody the spirit of Shanghai.
• City Objects — Stories told through meaningful artifacts that connect Shanghai's past and present.
• City Scenes — Personal narratives and unique perspectives reflecting individual connections with the city.

Eligible formats:

Accepted formats include short videos, micro-documentaries, animated films, experimental works, and AI-generated content videos. All entries must be under five minutes in length.

Participants:

Open to global content creators, independent filmmakers, university teams, and relevant production studios.

Judging criteria:

• Submissions should demonstrate creativity and humanistic depth, with an emphasis on:
• Global perspectives on Shanghai's openness and innovation.
• Timeless narratives of urban transformation.
• Heartwarming depictions of daily life.
• Cultural explorations bridging heritage and modernity.
• Technological innovation in audiovisual storytelling (e.g. AI, VR, AR).

Judges:

A panel of renowned international directors, producers, scholars, and media influencers will evaluate entries based on technical excellence, narrative power, social influence, and cultural impact, ensuring a fair and transparent process.

Prizes and opportunities:

1. Winning entries will be announced at the 31st Shanghai TV Festival in 2026.

2. Select works may be adapted by professional teams for broader distribution.

3. Top entries will be promoted at international competitions and film festivals.

Submission guidelines:

1. Deadline: Oct 31, 2025.

2. Submission platform: “这里是上海”全球短片征集计划报名小程序←Entry Submission Link: This is Shanghai - Global Short Video Collection Initiative

Complete the basic information form and provide a cloud-based video link (MP4, 1920×1080, H.264) with both Chinese and English subtitles. The video must be no longer than five minutes in length.

3. Institutional inquiries: Please contact Ms Liu (Liuyue@smg.cn).

Copyright note:

Winning entries will be jointly owned by the creators and the event organizers. By submitting their work, creators agree to grant the organizers the rights to use, distribute, and adapt the content for promotional and derivative purposes.

Join the initiative to share your story of Shanghai with the world!

Source: Official WeChat account of "shanghaifabu"