The screen went blank, and the dulcet symphony of trombones, harps, and oboes came to a crisp close. One by one the crystal theatre lights flickered on, illuminating the spectacular scene in the auditorium. Audience and critics alike rose soundly to their feet, their hearty applause echoing deep into the hall. Enthusiastic heads swivelled around to face the filmmaker, who let trifling smile caress his lips.
The dreams of all wacky writers, daedal directors, and feisty filmmakers is to one day experience this one moment of pure pride, elation, and triumph. However, the journey of a filmmaker is far from steady; that’s why film festivals have stepped in. Film festivals are the balmy boosters to this quite turbulent trek to success. Here are 5 reasons as to why you NEED to submit your short film to a film festival.
- “Exhibit A: A photograph of the victims, my bike and me.”
– Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure, 1985
The primary benefit of showcasing your work at a festival is the tremendous amount of exposure and attention your work receives. Hollywood legendaries such as Tim Burton and George Lucas kick-started their venerated careers with short films screened at film festivals. Film festivals are attended by production executives, content creators, and other personalities in the business. Having your film screened gives you a chance to network and make partnership deals. It’s a great way to meet people, discuss your work, have them spread the word, and hopefully get picked up by an industry official. You have to get out there, and you just have to get noticed.
- “He doesn’t know it’s a damn show, he thinks it’s a damn fight!”
– Rocky, 1976
Along with your film, you get to see many other short films too. This is gives you the opportunity to see the kind of competition your up against, and the kind of content that is likely to receive praise and awards. Meet and communicate with fellow filmmakers and engage in eye – opening and enriching discussions about your content. Get to know what’s relevant and what’s not. Film festivals are known for the unique show of films and electric atmosphere they create. Get yourself acquainted, get yourself motivated, and get yourself inspired.
- “Pulitzer Prizes are like Academy Awards, nobody remembers what you got it for; just that you got one.”– Superman Returns,2006
Film festivals are an amazing medium to get your work recognised, reviewed, and acclaimed.Why miss a chance to have your film and yourself praised and awarded? One of the wholly reasons of such festivals is to celebrate the thriving vision of young filmmakers and reward them for their efforts. Award – winning filmmakers are most certainly offered big opportunities, and nominated ones create lasting impressions too.
- “Aren’t you a little short for a stormtrooper?”
– Star Wars, 1977
Another feature of film festivals is the Q & A sessions which occur with moviemakers. The audience is given a chance to interact with the maker and get more of an insight into the mechanics and myriads of making the film. You can personally relate and connect with your audience, as well as giving a backstory of the evolution of your idea, the production process, and the final presentation.In the process, your work also gets reviewed, highlighting the hits and misses of your work. Production officials often pick up filmmakers with good public speaking and social skills with an easy connect with audiences. Create a convincing and saleable impression by attending a Q & A and give your work the justification it rightfully deserves.
- “People love what other people are passionate about.”
– La La Land, 2016
If you’re a filmmaker, films are your expression of passion, creativity, and emotion. Submit your film in a film festival, and share your passion with the audiences. Let the world see and indulge and rejoice in the content you have created. This is an exciting opportunity to experience audiences viewing your work and watching them relish it. Film festivals are a simple way to build up a fan base that propels you to victory. Let the audience feel your angst, your pain, and your uncontrollable happiness.
Those are just 6 of the millions of reasons why film festivals are stepping stone in your career. That dream, that flicker of victory, that moment of triumph is not far away – sow those seeds of hope and reap the fortune right away. Get your short film registered at a film festival. In the words of George Lucas, you simple have to put one foot in front of the other and keep going.
