So you have completed a film- Congratulations! Completion is, of course, the first all-important first step in getting somewhere in the film biz, now what? There are lots of options- but one of the most important to explore is your option in the world of the film festival. There are literally thousands of film festivals and it will come as no surprise that not all are equal in size or quality.
The most important mistake that filmmakers make where film festivals are concerned is that they simply do not apply to enough film festivals. It's not easy, in general, to get into film festivals and that is why its important to apply to as many as you possibly can. Film festivals can really help you get your work out there and most importantly can serve as a magnificent network opportunity. You must get into as many festivals as possible. Few things open up the eyes of a would-be producer or employer in the film industry as a few awards on your shelf. They may say it does mean that much- oh. but truth be told it does.
The second biggest mistake filmmakers can make is only applying to the "big festivals." It is certainly true that the big festival can and do launch careers, but guess what? Those same big festivals receive thousands of entries. Some of the better known, such as Sundance, often receive 6,000 or more a year for less than 200 slots. Look closely and you will see that many of these festivals are actually screening big-budget Hollywood films complete with stars. This reduces the number of slots open to the little independent filmmaker even more. Unfair, well sure it is, but it's also the way of the industry and the way of the world.
Go ahead and apply to a few of the big festivals, but remember that the bulk of your festival submission dollars should go to the smaller festivals that have less competition. Four or five awards from smaller festivals may not get you signed to a three-movie deal; however, it may help get you into the big festival you were initially aiming for in the first place. Be sure and let those big festivals know that you screened at the smaller festivals. It will definitely help. Additionally, if a programmers or audience members take a personal interest in your film at a smaller festival it can make a difference in the long run. You want other people running around championing the values of your film whenever possible so its not just you with your Hollywood Dreams looking for independent film financing or distribution.
Again, it's all about networking and just because the festival is small doesn't mean that there isn't anyone there that might take an interest in your work. Keep an open mind about smaller festivals, and be respectful to all those involved and you might be surprised what can happen.
By: Sara L. Gordon
About the Author:
Sara L. Gordon is currently working in the film industry. She studies independent film making and film distribution. http://www.squidoo.com/Getting-film-Funding
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