Terms of Service

1. Introduction

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 solely as an aggregator and discovery platform, helping filmmakers and film talent connect. We do not host, distribute, or monetize films or content beyond providing a searchable database of film industry participants.

2. Legal and Compliance

Terms of Service (ToS)

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.

Privacy Policy

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.

Copyright and Intellectual Property

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.

Disclaimer of Liability

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.

3. User Types and Expectations

Filmmakers

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.

Actors & Crew Members

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.

General Users (Audience, Enthusiasts, Media)

Can browse and discover profiles and projects.

Must respect content ownership and refrain from unauthorized sharing or downloads.

4. Platform Features

User Profiles

Allows uploading of bio, headshots, reels, and project history.

Optional social media links and portfolios for verification.

Search and Filters

Filter by location, role, experience, or language.

Easy navigation and advanced search for targeted discovery.

Internal Messaging (Coming Soon)

Users can communicate via platform inbox without sharing personal contact info.

Reporting tools will be available for inappropriate behavior.

5. Safety and Verification

Voluntary Verification

Users may submit identity documents for a "Verified" badge.

SFU does not guarantee safety or legitimacy of users or content.

User Conduct Policy

No harassment, abuse, or coercion tolerated.

No uploading or linking to explicit, defamatory, or illegal material.

Users who violate guidelines may be permanently banned.

Reporting & Moderation

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.

Sensitive Work Environments

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.

6. Financial Terms

Subscription System

Filmmakers pay a fixed subscription fee for access to the database.

SFU charges no commission or royalty from projects.

All payments are securely processed via trusted payment gateways.

Receipts and Invoices

Automatically generated for each payment.

Users may request detailed billing via email.

International Users

Subscription prices are listed in INR but may be paid from other currencies.

SFU complies with international payment norms and will issue invoices accordingly.

7. Dispute and Legal Process

Dispute Resolution

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.

Indemnity Clause

Users agree to indemnify and hold SFU harmless against any legal claims arising from their use of the platform.

Jurisdiction

All legal matters shall be governed by and construed under the laws of India, with jurisdiction in Bangalore, Karnataka.

8. Accessibility and Inclusivity

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.

9. Community and Engagement

Content Spotlight

Featured profiles may be showcased on the homepage and social media.

Users can submit work for promotional consideration.

Feedback and Ratings (Future Roadmap)

Users will be able to rate experiences and provide endorsements.

Helps improve trust and transparency across the platform.

Ambassador & Contributor Programs

Users from different regions may apply to become SFU brand ambassadors.

Regular contributors (bloggers, educators, curators) may be featured on the platform.

10. Final Notes

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.