Sundance Film Festival
Park City, United States
100
Tier AOscarScreenings
Festival dossier
Changing Minds Young Filmmaker Competition 2026
United States · Est. 2016 · Multiple structural red flags — exercise caution before submitting
WarningWatchlist
United States
26
Legitimacy ScoreShould I submit?
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Warning-tier means structural red flags in our data — not a confirmed scam, but submit only with eyes open.
- Listed as 'competition' not 'festival' - likely online-only awards
- No physical screenings
- 1 documented risk signal
Overview
The Changing Minds Young Filmmaker Competition 2026 is a New York-based youth film festival and competition run by Community Access that spotlights filmmakers ages 15 to 25 creating short films about mental health. It is notable for using film to challenge stigma, encourage honest conversation, and amplify young voices; what began as part of the NYC Mental Health Film Festival has grown into its own festival and an international storytelling program.
Last updated Aug 27, 2026
Legitimacy Analysis
Positive Indicators (+12 pts)
- 10 years of verifiable history
- 1 verified pro signal
Red Flags (-36 pts)
- Listed as 'competition' not 'festival' - likely online-only awards
- No physical screenings
- 1 documented risk signal
- On watchlist — negative reputation signals detected
Trust Signals
Risk Flags
- COMPETITION_NOT_FESTIVAL
Positive Signals
- Documented history with archived programs
Festival Details
Founded
2016
FilmFreeway community
Avg. rating
3.8/ 5
Reviews
2
Synced 19 days ago
Rating synced from FilmFreeway; individual review text not pulled yet for this festival.
View on FilmFreewayFilmFreeway reviews are filmmaker opinions, not our score. Cross-check red flags before paying fees.
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Research
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At a glance
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