KATO FILM FEST

The KATO Film Fest is a unique showcase for short films and feature projects that deserve attention. We celebrate diverse voices and cinematic storytelling by offering filmmakers a chance to screen their work to an engaged audience and compete for awards that elevate their careers.

In a world saturated with platforms and algorithms, it can be difficult for creative voices to break through. Our mission is to remove as many barriers as possible by providing:

• 🌟 Curated Exposure — Each selected film becomes available through the Whylie platform, where viewers can watch and support the work directly.
   
• 🎬 Audience building — Filmmakers gain followers and visibility through festival spotlight features, audience interaction, and ongoing platform access.
   
• 🏆 Recognition & Awards — Projects compete for festival awards that help filmmakers stand out in portfolios, festivals screens, and press.
   

Whether you’re an emerging creator or an experienced filmmaker, KATO Film Fest is designed to uplift your voice, expand your audience, and help your work find the attention it deserves.

• Short films and selected feature works in all genres
   
• Projects with artistic creativity, strong storytelling, and cultural resonance
   

• Open to filmmakers worldwide
   
• Films of all styles and genres are welcome
   
• Projects are reviewed for artistic merit and audience engagement potential
   

• Each accepted film is featured on the Whylie platform
   
• Viewers access films directly through user accounts, allowing filmmakers to build personal followings
   
• Festival highlights and awards are announced via DD’s Showbiz channels
   

Filmmakers compete for honors that spotlight exceptional work and help elevate careers.

The KATO Film Fest was born from a passion to uplift creatives and break down barriers in the film industry. Founded by Whylie Films, the festival grew from firsthand experience with the challenges filmmakers face, from limited exposure to the high costs of promotion, distribution, and audience growth. As storytellers, we know how hard it can be to get your work seen in a crowded digital landscape, especially when short films often don’t have a voice on major distribution platforms.

Whylie Films partnered with DD’s Showbiz, a fellow production company for artist opportunity and creative empowerment, to build something different. Together, they envisioned a space where filmmakers ~emerging and seasoned ~ can showcase their projects, gain meaningful exposure, and connect with audiences who genuinely want to see original work. KATO Film Fest is more than a festival. It’s a community and a launchpad for creators to grow their audiences, earn recognition, and celebrate the art of filmmaking.