Narrative Feature Film
Description: This category is for fiction-based films that run over 40 minutes. Submissions in this category should tell a compelling, well-structured story that captivates and engages the audience. Films may include drama, comedy, thriller, romance, science fiction, fantasy, or any other narrative genre. The narrative should showcase strong character development, an engaging plot, and impactful storytelling elements.
What We’re Looking For: Does the film leave a lasting impression? Does it evoke strong emotions, spark meaningful conversations, or make us want to share and recommend it to friends and family? The winning film will likely stand out for its creativity, impactful storytelling, and polished production quality. The producers of the award-winning film in this category will be recognized.
Narrative Short Film
Description: This category is for fiction-based films under 40 minutes. Submissions should convey a complete and engaging story within a shorter runtime, often using concise storytelling techniques and creative cinematography. The film should effectively introduce characters, develop a plot, and deliver a memorable conclusion, despite the limited duration.
What We’re Looking For: Does the short film make a significant impact within a short time frame? Are the story and characters memorable and impactful, and does the film leave us wanting more? Judges will be looking for originality, storytelling efficiency, and overall emotional or intellectual impact. The producers of the award-winning short film will be recognized.
Documentary Feature Film
Description: This category is for non-fiction feature films over 40 minutes that explore real-world events, people, or subjects in a meaningful way. Submissions should present a well-researched and compelling narrative or exploration, often shedding light on important or underrepresented topics. Strong storytelling, thoughtful interviews, and engaging visuals are essential.
What We’re Looking For: Does the documentary educate, inspire, or challenge our way of thinking? Does it bring a fresh perspective to the subject matter and create a lasting impact? Judges will be evaluating the film’s narrative strength, visual presentation, and the importance of the story being told. The producers of the award-winning documentary will be recognized.
Documentary Short Film
Description: This category is for non-fiction short films under 40 minutes that provide insight into a real-world event, person, or topic. The film should be well-researched and impactful, delivering a powerful message or exploration in a concise format. Visual storytelling and compelling interviews are critical components of a strong documentary short.
What We’re Looking For: Does the short documentary deliver a thought-provoking message or shine a light on a significant issue? Is the film both informative and engaging, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer? Judges will focus on the film’s ability to present a compelling story efficiently. The producers of the award-winning documentary short will be recognized.
Animated Film
Description: This category is for films that use animation techniques to tell a story, whether as a short or feature-length project. Submissions can include any style of animation, such as 2D, 3D, stop-motion, or experimental forms. The film should use animation to creatively enhance the storytelling, with attention to visual details, pacing, and voice acting (if applicable).
What We’re Looking For: Does the animation captivate and immerse the audience in the story? Are the visuals and characters memorable, and does the animation style add depth to the narrative? Judges will be looking for creativity, technical execution, and how effectively the film uses animation to tell its story. The producers of the award-winning animated film will be recognized.
Episodic Series (TV/Streaming)
Description: This category is for one episode of a series intended for episodic television or streaming platforms. Submissions should demonstrate the potential for an engaging series, with strong character development and a compelling storyline that makes viewers want to continue watching. Episodes can be of any genre and should establish a clear premise and hook.
What We’re Looking For: Does the episode leave us wanting more? Does it successfully set up a captivating story arc and introduce characters we care about? Judges will be assessing the episode’s ability to establish intrigue, create engaging characters, and lay a foundation for a successful series. The producers of the award-winning episode will be recognized.
Music Video
Description: This category is for creative and engaging music videos that combine music and visual storytelling. Submissions should use innovative concepts, compelling cinematography, and captivating visual effects to enhance the music. The narrative or theme should align with the song and leave a memorable impression on viewers.
What We’re Looking For: Does the music video complement and elevate the song? Is it visually striking and creatively executed, with a concept that stands out? Judges will focus on originality, visual impact, and how well the visuals and music work together. The director or producers of the award-winning music video will be recognized.
Experimental Film
Description: This category is for films that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling and explore new and unconventional cinematic techniques. Submissions may include abstract narratives, non-linear structures, or visually unique approaches that challenge conventional filmmaking norms. Creativity and artistic vision are key.
What We’re Looking For: Does the film evoke a strong emotional or intellectual response through its experimental nature? Is it thought-provoking, visually arresting, or artistically groundbreaking? Judges will look for films that successfully use experimentation to engage or challenge the viewer. The creators of the award-winning experimental film will be recognized.
Student Film
Description: This category is for films created by student filmmakers. Submissions can be of any genre or format but must include proof of student status, such as a valid student ID. The film should demonstrate the filmmaker’s potential and showcase their creativity, storytelling ability, and technical skills.
What We’re Looking For: Does the film display a strong understanding of cinematic language and storytelling? Does it reflect the filmmaker’s unique voice or creative vision? Judges will evaluate the film based on originality, technical execution, and the promise shown by the student filmmaker. The creators of the award-winning student film will be recognized.
LGBTQ+ Filmmaker
Description: This category is for films directed or produced by LGBTQ+ filmmakers, with submissions that highlight stories, experiences, or themes relevant to the LGBTQ+ community. The film can be of any genre or format and may feature narratives that celebrate, explore, or bring awareness to LGBTQ+ identities, issues, or culture.
What We’re Looking For: Does the film provide authentic representation or shed light on important aspects of the LGBTQ+ experience? Is the story compelling, meaningful, and handled with care and authenticity? Judges will be looking for storytelling that is impactful, unique, and culturally significant, with a focus on the voice and vision of the LGBTQ+ filmmaker. The filmmakers of the award-winning project will be recognized.
Women Filmmaker
Description: This category is for films directed or produced by women filmmakers, celebrating the creative contributions of women in the film industry. Submissions can be in any genre or format and should reflect the unique perspectives or voices of women storytellers.
What We’re Looking For: Does the film reflect a fresh, powerful, or insightful perspective on its subject matter? Is the storytelling strong and the vision distinctively that of a woman filmmaker? Judges will evaluate the film’s impact, execution, and the ways it elevates or showcases women’s voices in cinema. The award-winning women filmmakers will be recognized for their work.
BIPOC Filmmaker
Description: This category is for films directed or produced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) filmmakers. Submissions can span any genre or format and may include narratives that amplify BIPOC voices, explore culturally significant stories, or address social issues relevant to BIPOC communities.
What We’re Looking For: Does the film bring forward important or underrepresented stories with authenticity and passion? Does it highlight the unique voice of the BIPOC filmmaker and create a meaningful connection with the audience? Judges will be looking for films that are impactful, culturally relevant, and beautifully told from the perspective of a BIPOC creator. The award will honor the BIPOC filmmakers behind the project.
Screenplay
Description: This category is for written screenplays that are either produced or un-produced. Submissions must be in industry-standard screenplay format, including elements such as character dialogue, scene descriptions, and plot structure. Screenplays can be for feature-length films, short films, or episodic series, and should showcase the writer’s skill in developing a captivating story.
What We’re Looking For: Does the screenplay demonstrate strong writing, with compelling characters, engaging dialogue, and a well-structured narrative? Is the story fresh, original, and immersive, drawing the reader into its world? Judges will be assessing the screenplay based on its storytelling, character development, dialogue, and overall writing quality. The award-winning screenwriter will be recognized for their exceptional work.