Film festivals are incredibly exciting opportunities for filmmakers. First-time filmmakers may want to grab every festival opportunity possible, but this could do more harm then good. The following article guides you through how to choose the right film festivals to apply to and how to make the most out of them:
1. Are They Credible?
First-time filmmakers may think applying to every film festival possible is a good thing. In truth, they aren’t wrong, but it would be very difficult to make a strong impact at every single film festival. You have to pick your battles with such festivals. Festivals that are credible should be number one on your list. Festivals that attract a lot of press and a lot of film industry types are essential. Screening at a credible festival will give your video production great merit and help you to network with some big industry names.
2. Where Are They?
There are a lot of logistics involved when it comes to applying to film festivals. To make a big splash at any festival you’ll need a big promotions team to help spread the word about your film. This means that not only do you have to be able to afford to get there, so does your team. If only you manage to make it to the festival your screening is going to greatly suffer due to the abysmal amount of promotion you’ll be able to do. Only apply to festivals that you and your team can get to.
3. Are There Any Fees?
Credible film festivals may require you to pay to submit your application. This cost aims to whittle down the serious filmmakers from the amateurs. Such fees are always non-refundable. The costs cover the processing of your application and the time it takes to watch and consider it as a candidate for the festival. Bear in mind if you are applying to a variety of film festivals you could be starting to rack up quite a bill.
4. Are There Any Benefits?
It may sound a little materialistic, but it’s always worth checking out what festivals can offer you. Will getting a successful application cover your lodging? Will you get free food or drink at the festivals events? Or maybe successful applicants will receive vouchers or a goodie bag? There are a lot of benefits to having a successful application so don’t be afraid to look out for them. Festivals can be very hard work and anything that helps you have a bit of fun at the end of your long days is worth grabbing with both hands.
5. Are There Any Awards?
Aside from the materialistic opportunities there are some straight up fantastic career opportunities to be had at film festivals too. Winning an award or even getting a nomination at a credible film festival could really boost your career as a filmmaker and raise the profile of your film at the event.
Summary
There you have it, 5 essential points to consider when applying for any film festival. Film festivals are fantastic ways for filmmakers to make a name for themselves, and by baring these suggestions in mind you can help to pick the right film festivals for your video production.
