SAN DIEGO BLACK FILM FESTIVAL

San Diego, California – USA
January 31 to February 3, 2013

 

The 11th Annual San Diego Black Film Festival (SDBFF), is showcasing African American and African Diaspora films. Located in gorgeous San Diego, California, this celebration combines sun, sand, and cinema with countless networking opportunities, and is one of the largest black film festivals in the country. Screening over 100 films a year in a broad variety of categories, SDBFF has cultivated a strong industry reputation as a place where talent is regularly scouted and discovered.

Each year the SDBFF program includes an awards dinner, filmmaker’s breakfast, panel discussions, opening reception, and a red carpet for filmmakers. The dynamic film program includes narrative and documentary features and shorts, as well as comedies, animated films, and music videos.

Opportunities for success at SDBFF are as varied and as exciting as the festival’s lineup; SDBFF awards include Best Dramatic Feature, Best Dramatic Short, Best Documentary Short, Best Religious Film, Best Cutting Edge Film, Best GLBT Film, Best Animation, and a host of others. Winning an award at the San Diego Black Film Festival adds significant industry prestige to a filmmaker’s resume and has helped launch the careers of past winners.

UPCOMING DEADLINE
August 31, 2012 – Regular Deadline

MISSION AND OBJECTIVE
The San Diego Black Film Festival celebrates cinema and community by providing a vehicle for worldwide exposure of quality African American and African Diaspora films.

MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
SDFF takes place in downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, the historic heart of the city with numerous shopping venues and electric nightlife. Submit your film to the San Diego Black Film Festival today for the chance to participate in one of the largest and most prestigious black film festivals in the country!

GOTHAM SCREEN Film Festival and Screenplay Contest

6 Annual October 04, 2012 to October 14, 2012

 

MISSION & OBJECTIVE
The mission of the GOTHAM SCREEN Film Festival & Screenplay Competition is to create an opportunity for filmmakers to have their work shown and critically judged in New York. The festival aims to create a positive industry and audience exposure for works that would otherwise not easily get seen, and for new writing, directing and acting talent to get discovered.

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
The 6th Annual GOTHAM SCREEN Film Festival and Screenplay Contest will take place October 4-14, 2012 in New York City.

Following the success of the 2011 edition, this years event has been expanded to showcase more short and feature films during a week of screenings at the storied Quad Cinema in Manhattan, New York City, and other locations.

Gotham Screen is looking for fresh voices and perspectives from local, national and international filmmakers.

The 2012 Screenplay Contest comes again with a $2,500 cash prize for the winning screenplay! In addition, excerpts from selected contest entries will be performed live by professional actors at a staged reading during the festival.

Recognizing the need for quality projects in the industry, and realizing that this need can not always be satisfied by established writers with agency representation, the GOTHAM SCREEN Screenplay Competition has been set up with the goal to find the Next Great Screenplay, and to give previously undiscovered writers a chance at getting their craft recognized and their projects produced.

The GOTHAM SCREEN Screenplay Competition specializes in lower- to mid- range budgeted projects. We are actively looking for scripts that can be produced with budgets in the 2-15m dollar range. While we realize that great writing exists beyond this range, the GOTHAM SCREEN Screenplay competition is not the appropriate venue for it. Our targeted budget range will most likely exclude high budget action or special effects driven stories, most science fiction, many epics and/or historic movies, as well as most animation projects.

Producers and Financiers have as much interest in great stories and screenplays, as the struggling writer has to get her or his next project onto the screen. Realizing that this is a two way relationship that calls for a new kind of approach, GOTHAM SCREEN strives to find projects and writers that can have a real chance in the marketplace.

ORGANIZERS
Alex Blakeney ; Michael Gunther (Festival Registrar) ; Michael Gunther (Festival Registrar) ; Walter Gamper ; Walter Gamper

GENERAL RULES
– Entrants must fully comply with the Entry Rules & Regulations, including deadline(s), entry material requirements and selected film requirements. Submitting to GOTHAM SCREEN constitutes acceptance of these Rules, Regulations and Requirements.

– The GOTHAM SCREEN Film Festival and Screenplay Contest is open to everyone. You must be 18 years or older (21 in some states) to participate, or have written consent from your parent or guardian.

– Screenplay submissions must be in English, Film submissions must be in English, or subtitled in English.

– International submissions are encouraged, as long as they are in English (screenplays and English language films), or subtitled in English (non-English language films).

– Multiple entries are admissible, but each entry must be accompanied by its own separate submission. You may submit more than one screenplay per writer, or more than one film per director, and you may submit more than one film or screenplay per category

– Contest winners and selected films will be notified by early-October 2012 (approximately). You must give us a valid e-mail address to be notified.

OPEN CALL FOR ENTRIES • Select a Category of Entry to continue.

SCREENPLAY
While we are looking for great stories of any kind, we are encouraging submissions in the following genres: 

– DRAMA
– COMEDY
– HORROR
– THRILLER/SUSPENSE
– FAMILY
– ADVENTURE
– ROMANTIC COMEDY
– ROMANCE
– ACTION
– SCI-FI
– FANTASY
– SUPERNATURAL
– WESTERN
– URBAN
– DOCUMENTARY
– SCIENCE

Selected entries in this category can made available to the industry (upon request, and with the submitters agreement only), and a number of previous participants and winners have had their work optioned or were further commissioned by producers and production companies.

FEATURE FILM
Gotham Screen each year shows an eclectic mix of US and International Feature Films, from both new directors as well as established filmmakers. Our sophisticated New York audiences like to be surprised, scared, moved and entertained, and appreciate the craft of great storytelling. Among them the occasional scouts from major sales- and distribution companies have been known to attend the screenings as well, and subsequently contact selected filmmakers of interesting movies.
SHORT FILM
One of our favorite audience categories! A number of Short Films of different genres, lengths and formats, from both US and International filmmakers, are shown each year to a discerning and enthusiastic audience.
DOCUMENTARY
Feature-length documentary films, over 45 minutes in runtime. Documentary shorts should be submitted to the Short Film category. Another audience favorite – documentary screenings have drawn good responses from audiences looking for something new and different.
STUDENT / EXPERIMENTAL
Our newest category is specifically for student and experimental filmmakers who want to be critically judged against their peers. They are usually shown together with other short film entries, but are judged as a separate category. And if your film is really exceptional, it even has a chance to win the coveted “Best Short Film” award and cash prize!

 

ILLINOIS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Chicago, Illinois – USA
November 2012

 

UPCOMING DEADLINE
August 31, 2012 – Late Deadline

The 7th Annual Illinois International Film Festival (IIFF), is celebrating all aspects of the filmmaking process and the people who work tirelessly to bring great stories to the screen. The festival also attracts plenty of filmmakers and film lovers to share in the excitement of the diverse annual showcase, offering numerous opportunities for networking and discussion.

For years, IIFF has proudly celebrated not only filmmakers but also screenwriters – those skilled creative talents who literally create something from nothing. Winners in last year’s screenwriting category told the stories of a Mexican drug cartel, a Turkish wrestler battling against his cultural history, and a young man who finds unimaginable adventure while living in a nursing home. At IIFF, no story is too outlandish or “experimental” to be worthy of consideration, and the only limits to success are your own imagination.

Competitive categories at IIFF span a wide gamut and include documentary, animated, horror, science fiction, and student films. No matter what your budget or vision, IIFF has a category for you. Screenplay and film submissions to IIFF are evaluated by a committee composed of festival organizers and executives. Because this festival is truly dedicated to celebrating the individual voices of talented filmmakers, accepted films will determine the festival’s structure, and not the other way around. IIFF is tailored to the filmmakers it celebrates, and is devoted to connecting those filmmakers with audiences and industry experts who share in their excitement for cinema.

 

MISSION AND OBJECTIVE
The Illinois International Film Festival brings audiences and filmmakers together to better enjoy the art and fun of filmmaking. It offers filmmakers the opportunity to learn, grow, and exhibit their work, and it offers attendees films that will expand their knowledge of cinema and enhancing their appreciation of the filmmaking process.

MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
The beating heart of this festival is the incomparable city of Chicago, one of America’s most beloved urban landscapes and a melting pot for cineastes, musicians, and artists of all types. Explore Millennium Park, enjoy the world-renowned Shedd Aquarium, and stop by the Second City Comedy Club when you’re not immersed in a variety of great films or bustling IIFF social events. With the festival as your entry point to the sights, sounds, and flavors of Chicago, you’ll always have something to do or discover.

Unbeatable travel deals are available for friends and visitors of IIFF to attend the festival, ensuring that your stay is not only enjoyable but affordable. Submit your film or screenplay to the Illinois International Film Festival today for the chance to explore all that Chicago and its robust film community has to offer!

 

the Sedona Film Festival

Save the date and mark your calendar:


The 19th Annual Sedona International Film Festival

February 23 – March 3, 2013

The GREATEST celebration of the BEST in independent film from around the world: February 23 – March 3, 2013. From features to shorts, documentaries to animation and foreign films to student films, you will be treated to a cinephile’s dream … NINE DAYS and more than 145 films!

Already recognized by filmmakers and audiences as one of the top festivals in the nation (and named the “Fest to Impress” by MovieMaker Magazine), the 2013 edition will continue a tradition of honoring those motivated by passion for their art and driven by a love for making timely, moving and important films.

Join filmmakers, celebrities, industry guests and film buffs from all around the world as Sedona takes center stage with its biggest celebration of film yet!

Call for Submissions for the 2013
Sedona International Film Festival
IS NOW OPEN!

2013 SIFF Film Submission Deadlines:

Earlybird Deadline: August 5, 2012
Regular Deadline: September 10, 2012
Late Deadline: October 20, 2012

_________________________________________________

Film Festival Office
and Mary D. Fisher Theatre
2030 W. State Route 89A, Suite A-3
Sedona, AZ 86336
(928) 282-1177

TRAIL DANCE FILM FESTIVAL

Duncan, Oklahoma – USA
January 25 to 26, 2013

The 7th Annual TRAIL DANCE FILM FESTIVAL (TDFF). is held annually in Duncan, Oklahoma – the birthplace of legendary filmmaker Ron Howard – the festival introduces up-and-coming filmmakers from around the globe to Oklahoma’s emergent film industry, and provides a welcoming forum and film showcase amidst a beautiful Western landscape.

The festival has garnered respect on the circuit and earned accolades. TDFF was honored with the “Outstanding New Event” RedBud Award at the Governor’s Conference on Tourism and MovieMaker Magazine has named Trail Dance in their “Top 25” lists three times – once as “Worth the Entry Fee,” and twice as one of the “Coolest” film festivals.

TDFF offers visiting filmmakers lodging discounts and local transportation from the airport, hotel, and area businesses to the event venue. The festival partners with the Oklahoma Film and Music Commission to provide visiting filmmakers with information on locations, crew members, actors, and financial incentives in Oklahoma. All TDFF festivities are open to the public and include live entertainment, professional seminars, networking opportunities, Wild West gunfights, music, and much more. The Festival concludes with a grand awards gala where the Golden Drover Awards are presented to worthy filmmakers, and where one lucky student is awarded a scholarship to pursue a career in filmmaking.

UPCOMING DEADLINE
August 15, 2012 – Regular Deadline

MISSION AND OBJECTIVE
It is the goal and mission of the Trail Dance Film Festival to encourage originality and creativity, as well as to promote the growing film industry of Oklahoma.

MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
TDFF has quickly emerged as a premier film event in the Southwestern United States. The festival is the flagship event of the Trail Dance Film Festival Association, a non-profit organization that creates scholarship funds for students studying film and media arts in addition to promoting cinema appreciation in Oklahoma. Trail Dance boasts three state-of-the-art venues and a 750-seat auditorium with top-notch sound and projection systems – all within short walking distance of TDFF headquarters.

The Trail Dance Film Festival annually delivers a one-of-a-kind program and great festival experience for filmmakers and fans alike. Submit today!

SOUTH ALABAMA FILM FESTIVAL

Mobile, Alabama – USA
November 2 to 4, 2012
Upcoming Deadline: August 15, 2012


The 4th Annual SOUTH ALABAMA FILM FESTIVAL (SoAL) showcases the best films that are by, for, or about the American South and its people. With this regional focus in mind, SoAL champions southern filmmakers and the reality that the southern United States is fertile ground for fantastic art and artists. Dedicated to creating a cinematic experience that cannot be duplicated in any living room, SoAL blends thought-provoking Q&A sessions with live music performances and networking events among the beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, and stunning historic homes that pepper Mobile, Alabama.

In addition to awarding prizes to some of the best creative works of the South, SoAL offers an array of seminars and workshops designed to educate both adults and children in filmmaking practices. SoAL seeks not only to recognize the talent of today, but to help shape the talents of tomorrow and ensure that the South remains a robust region for film production. Add your voice to the growing chorus of artists who are proud to tell the unforgettable stories of the South by submitting to the South Alabama Film Festival today!

HOLLYWOOD REEL INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL

Hollywood, California – USA
December 5 to 19, 2012
Upcoming Deadline: August 19, 2012  

The 8th Annual HOLLYWOOD REEL INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL (HRIFF) celebrates independent cinema in the heart of the American film industry. Offering competitive categories for features, shorts and screenplays, HRIFF offers something for everyone with a story to tell. There’s no better place to be discovered than Hollywood, California.

HRIFF comes alive with film screenings, panels, mixers, and red carpet events that take full advantage of the festival’s Tinseltown location. The festival offers a diverse program, with this year’s slate already set to include such films as DROPOUT, featuring Vanessa Redgrave; the North American premiere of Uwe Boll’s BAILOUT; Bryce Dallas Howard’s latest directorial effort, WHEN YOU FIND ME; the world premiere of MANOS: HANDS OF FATE HD; and much more. HRIFF brings challenging, heart-felt, modestly budgeted films and their creators into direct contact with an industry environment that can launch careers. See what the Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival can do for you…submit today!

BAJA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Cabo – MEXICO
November 14 to 17, 2012
Upcoming Deadline: August 13, 2012

 

The BAJA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (BIFF) invites filmmakers from across the globe to the beautiful Pacific resort of Cabo for a four-day celebration of community, cinema, and international flavors. BIFF showcases a diverse and tightly curated film program including U.S., Mexican, and international cinema, and underscores the ability of art to transcend geography, cultures, and languages. Academy-Award nominated actor Edward Norton will serve as Official Festival Advisor in the inaugural season.

As host of the 2012 G20 summit, and as a popular vacation destination for stars including George Clooney, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Jennifer Aniston, Cabo is poised to welcome its festival guests with luxury and unsurpassed hospitality. The festival provides complimentary round-trip flights from L.A. to Cabo, or from Mexico City to Cabo, for all accepted filmmakers. BIFF encourages public participation through community events and educational filmmaking programs; leading filmmakers from the United States and Mexico will be on-hand to provide mentorship to film producers, directors, screenwriters, and actors of all backgrounds. Submit to the Baja International Film Festival today and celebrate cinema in the lap of luxury!

MOVING IMAGE FILM FESTIVAL

Toronto, Ontario – CANADA
November 2 to 4, 2012

Upcoming Deadline: August 10, 2012

Taking place in vibrant Toronto, Canada, the 5th Annual MOVING IMAGE FILM FESTIVAL (MIFFest) is a quickly-growing event that showcases mainstream and art house cinema on an equal platform, uniting diverse audiences while providing maximum exposure for each selected film.

Offering filmmakers exposure to the Canadian film and television industry and a variety of distribution opportunities, MIFFEST sports a guest list of industry partners including Raindance Canada, Channel Zero, Movieola Short Film Channel, and Silver Screen Classics. In addition to enjoying great networking opportunities, participants receive passes to all gala events and screenings. The winner of the Best Feature Film Award can choose between a RED CAM production prize pack or a fully-paid trip to the American Film Market valued at $5,000 CAD. The Best Short Film Award-winner receives a $1,500 voucher toward post-production services at SPOTZ. Submit your work to the Moving Image Film Festival today for the chance to nab a great prize package and some career-launching industry exposure!


CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL REEL SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL

Chicago, Illinois – USA
September 20 to 23, 2012

 

The 9th Annual CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL REEL SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL (CIRSFF), is a celebration of short-form filmmaking that tailors its program to the filmmakers and audiences it serves. CIRSFF ensures that each film is part of a curated showcase that complements and accentuates each film’s themes, resulting in a highly personalized and always-captivating festival that truly respects and celebrates the uniqueness of each filmmaker.

Each competitive category at CIRSFF – including Short Film Narrative, Short Film Documentary, Short Film Youth, and Music Video – will present both an Audience Award and a Panel Award to filmmakers who make a strong and memorable impact. A Best of Fest Award will also be bestowed on the project that best exemplifies the power of the independent spirit. Rather than emphasize competition, however, CIRSFF seeks to create relationships and networks that will extend far beyond the festival itself and will help spark fantastic careers that go on to inspire others.

Last year’s CIRSFF hosted an exclusive selection of short films featuring Chicago’s own Joe Mantegna (“Criminal Minds”), including his directorial debut. The success of this event has prompted CIRSFF to develop an annual program featuring other Chicago-native celebrities and their creative works.

UPCOMING DEADLINE
August 12, 2012 – Regular Deadline

MISSION AND OBJECTIVE
The Chicago International Reel Shorts Film Festival seeks to provide opportunities for filmmakers around the world by showcasing their work to “reel” people in and around Chicago. The festival seeks to provide a supportive atmosphere with low entry fees, low ticket prices, and high reward.

MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
Offering participating filmmakers a pre-festival screening event and a networking gala at a beloved Chicago hotspot, CIRSFF takes full advantage of the sights, sounds, and flavors of one of America’s most exciting cities. Home to renowned musicians, diverse and memorable storytellers, and premier culinary artists, Chicago offers something for everyone.

CIRSFF guests will enjoy fantastic films at Columbia College’s Film Row Cinema, a venue featuring one of the best digital projection theaters in the Midwest. The festival also includes a lecture series that explores the experiences and insights of well-established independent filmmakers from Chicago and abroad; award-winning producer and director Julian Grant will be this year’s special guest presenter.

For the chance to explore the great city of Chicago and discover this top-notch event for yourself, submit to the Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Festival today!