The Short Film Universe (SFU) Platform: Legal & User Compliance Document
This document outlines the comprehensive legal framework, user safety protocols, platform features, and community standards for The Short Film Universe (SFU), accessible at www.shortfilmuniverse.com. SFU functions as an aggregator and discovery platform, helping filmmakers and film talent connect. SFU is free to use and is supported by advertising. We do not sell subscriptions, and we do not host, distribute, or monetise films or content beyond providing a searchable database of film industry participants.
SFU is an aggregator and not involved in any production, distribution, or hiring processes.
SFU holds no liability for disputes, misconduct, or financial loss stemming from user interactions.
All users are responsible for their communications, transactions, and agreements.
We collect basic data (name, email, location, bio) to maintain platform functionality.
No personal data is sold or shared without user consent.
We comply with the Indian IT Act, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) in Singapore, and relevant data protection laws in other Southeast Asian countries.
Users from outside India are informed that their data may be processed and stored on servers located in India or other jurisdictions, and their continued use of the platform indicates consent to such processing.
Users are responsible for ensuring that any media, description, or content they share does not violate copyright laws.
SFU does not claim ownership over user-submitted content.
SFU may remove infringing material upon receiving a valid DMCA or similar notice under local copyright laws.
SFU is not responsible for any harm, threat, harassment, or financial loss arising from third-party interactions.
All users agree to use the platform at their own risk.
May list projects or search for talent.
Must verify ownership or rights of any film content described.
Encouraged to conduct background checks before hiring talent.
May create profiles with bios, reels, and experience.
Understand that all collaboration is at their own discretion.
Encouraged to request verified project details before engagement.
Can browse and discover profiles and projects.
Must respect content ownership and refrain from unauthorized sharing or downloads.
Allows uploading of bio, headshots, reels, and project history.
Optional social media links and portfolios for verification.
Filter by location, role, experience, or language.
Easy navigation and advanced search for targeted discovery.
Users can communicate via platform inbox without sharing personal contact info.
Reporting tools will be available for inappropriate behavior.
Users may submit identity documents for a “Verified” badge.
SFU does not guarantee safety or legitimacy of users or content.
No harassment, abuse, or coercion tolerated.
No uploading or linking to explicit, defamatory, or illegal material.
Users who violate guidelines may be permanently banned.
Reports can be submitted via our contact form.
SFU may suspend or remove accounts based on verified misconduct.
SFU will cooperate with legal authorities when required.
SFU strongly advises users, especially women and minors, to work only with verified profiles.
All users are encouraged to meet in public or professional spaces and perform background checks.
SFU is free to use. There is no subscription fee for filmmakers, cast, crew, equipment rental providers, or location rental providers.
Creating a profile, browsing, applying, inviting, hiring, and requesting rentals are all free.
SFU is supported by advertising, primarily Google AdSense and Adsterra. Ads may appear across the platform, including the homepage, discovery pages, and profiles.
Ad content is supplied by third-party ad networks. SFU does not control and is not responsible for the content of third-party ads.
Users must not click their own ads, use bots or automated tools, or otherwise manipulate advertising. Doing so may result in account termination.
Where required by law, personalised advertising is subject to your consent, as described in our Privacy Policy.
SFU charges no commission or royalty on projects, hires, or rentals.
SFU will not mediate disputes but will record complaints.
Users are encouraged to resolve disputes via legal means or third-party arbitration.
For international users, local jurisdiction applies, subject to platform policies.
Users agree to indemnify and hold SFU harmless against any legal claims arising from their use of the platform.
All legal matters shall be governed by and construed under the laws of India, with jurisdiction in Bangalore, Karnataka.
Website is designed to be mobile-friendly and accessible to users with disabilities.
Future plans include multilingual support.
Content moderation policies will reflect inclusive practices and cultural sensitivity.
Featured profiles and projects may be showcased on the homepage and discovery pages.
Featured profiles and projects may be showcased on the homepage and discovery pages, at SFU’s discretion.
Users will be able to rate experiences and provide endorsements.
Helps improve trust and transparency across the platform.
Users from different regions may apply to become SFU brand ambassadors.
Regular contributors (bloggers, educators, curators) may be featured on the platform.
SFU is committed to providing a professional, respectful, and safe environment for the filmmaking community across India and Southeast Asia. We continuously update our policies to ensure legal compliance and user satisfaction.