The selection process at Big River Film Festival is transparent. Each and every film submitted is seen at least twice (most receive more viewings). If one of the first two pre-screeners (members of our selection committee - which is comprised of professional filmmakers) says yes, the film goes before our third level of pre-screening. The programming staff of Big River work collaboratively with our selection committee to narrow down the films that will be invited to the festival.

The major criteria for film election includes a strong plot that is delivered in a clear and unique way. At Big River, we champion new filmmakers.

Placement & Distribution
Cash Awards
Medals
Certificates

Screening - The individual or corporation submitting the film warrants that he/she is authorized to commit the film to at least two screenings at any time during the Live Big River Film Festival (BRFF). Selected entries must send a festival screening copy on HD Cam (NOT HDCam SR), DCP, and BluRay (for backup purposes only, preferably). It is strongly recommended that you bring or send a backup method of exhibition (e.g. HDCam to back up DCP; BluRay to back up HDCam).

Liability
Every possible care will be taken with entries while in our possession, however, we cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or additional charges incurred en route, or due to wear and tear, or equipment error. Do not send original prints or master copies. Additionally, BR is held harmless from any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits, publicity or screening of any film.

Shipping
The cost of shipping an entry to the Festival must be paid by the entrant or preceding festival. All international entries must be sent with all transportation charges, duties, and taxes prepaid by the shipper. For films accepted into the Festival, the entrant is responsible for inbound shipping. If the filmmaker wishes to have items returned, pre-paid postage and shipping materials must be provided by the filmmaker.

Reproduction Agreement
Entrant agrees to grant BR permission for accepted films and related marketing materials to be reproduced and distributed – in whole or in part – SOLELY for purposes of jurying, education, and promotion of the festival. Please note that due to schedule conflicts, some jurors may need to view your films on disc. If you submitted a rough cut, it is VITAL that you send a copy of the final edition of your film on DVD. This final copy will also serve as an exhibition back-up, in case your selected method of exhibition does not work.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Alejandro Montoya Marin

    Greatfestival, lots of fun, great movies,a great way to enjoy film!

    October 2016
  • Morgan Swank

    It was a great time and I met a lot of cool people. I wish it had gone on an extra day into the weekend instead of on a Friday, because I missed a lot of viewings. Other than that it was a great time.

    August 2016
  • William Leon

    This was an amazing film festival to be a part of. The facilitators were passionate, dedicated, and very communicative. Additionally, they have an incredible venue. I would highly recommend this film festival.

    August 2016
  • It was their first year running the festival, but I admire their ambition for quality. I think they have many years ahead of them. A good variety of quality shorts, features, new media, docs, etc. Would have been better to have less events overlapping so could have bigger audience in one venue rather than spreading them out. Savannah was a great city to host in. The networking was great. Met lovely people from all over. Looking forward to their next year.

    August 2016
  • William Klayer

    For a first year film festival Big River was incredibly well organized. The communication was excellent and they addressed all of our questions kindly and quickly. Samone did a tremendous job of supporting all the films and the film makers. We were honored to be so welcomed by the Savannah film community. We made many connections with the Georgia film community.

    August 2016