How do I get my movie or independent film into Film Festivals? (n.d.). Retrieved January 15, 2015, from http://www.independentfilmadvice.com/IndependentFilmAdvice.com/Film_Festivals.html
Film festivals are the ideal way to get your film noticed, though it is important to keep certain things in mind.
Just because you submit your film to a film festival does not automatically mean that you will be featured in the festival. Think of this process as one that is similar to submitting college applications, you send in everything that you have completed, yet aren’t certain of whether you will be accepted or not.
When submitting your film to specific festivals, it is vital to read every rule. Certain festivals require formats that will draw the line between being considered for the festival or not.
Keep in mind that most festivals are not necessarily free. A submission fee could cost anywhere from $25 to $50 - include this cost in your overall film budget.
Lastly, if you are lucky enough to make it into the film festival, you will most likely attend a ‘filmmaker party.’ This is where you will be able to meet and interact with other filmmakers and distributors and where you can market your movie for free- something that could be very beneficial.
“If you don’t get into your first festival, all is not lost. I have been turned down for many festivals and still also been accepted to many with the same film.”
“These parties are important as this is your cheapest form of marketing and creating buzz. Go to them and promote your film!”
This article effectively breaks down specific steps that one must take when entering a film festival. It has tips and ideas that could definitely facilitate the process for first time filmmakers. I’ve read multiple other articles and no other has pinpointed the fact that there are submission fees for certain festivals and I think it’s an important detail that people should be aware of. An article like this could absolutely help filmmakers feel more prepared for film festivals.
I think film festivals are a great way to promote independent films and critique them on quality rather than popularity as do other award shows such as the Golden Globes. It's also a great way for younger filmmakers to put they're work out in the industry and hopefully launch off of their acquired success. Not only are they great advertising platforms, but it's a cheap form of marketing that can help you branch out as well as possibly have the opportunity to work with other filmmakers.
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