Formerly known as the Blue Dandenongs Young Filmmakers Festival, it is open for entries until early November.

Named Shoot. Show. Shine., the festival, in its fifth year, gives filmmakers the opportunity to see their work in front of a large audience, on a big screen and be judged professionally.

Films must be 15 minutes or less, made by a Victorian filmmaker aged 30 or under and submitted by November 2.

Festival director Tilla Buden said the festival was a great opportunity for exposure.

"The Hillside Film Festival offers a unique platform for the best emerging filmmakers to be recognised for their talent and showcase their own original projects.

"Victorian filmmakers can see their work on screen across Australia so it really is a great opportunity."

Films are seen by the festival committee before going to the judges, who include Sandra Sciberras, director of award-winning Caterpillar Wish, Bridget Callow, producer of the AFI-nominated Bitter and Twisted and Ray Mooney, playwright, novelist and screenwriter.

Festival producer Corey O'Meara said organisers hoped to build on last year's success.

"This year, films can be submitted online and the screening will be held over two days instead of just one. Last year more than 70 films were shown so this year we are hoping for more."

Filmmakers are competing for $1000 cash from the Upwey and District Community Bank Group and a prize pack from Madman Entertainment.

The festival is managed by Burrinja and films will be screened at the Cameo Outdoor Cinema in Belgrave from February 19-21. Selected films will feature on the Aurora Community Channel next year.

Send entries to Hillside Film Festival, 351 Glenfern Road, Upwey, VIC 3158, or info@hillsidefilmfestival.com