Films must be completely student created and are judged on content, camera work, editing, audio/sound, talent/voice, and overall creative expression.
IMPORTANT: In addition to submitting a film through FilmFreeway, the Sponsor or Mentor for each film must complete a CONTACT and COPYRIGHT form found online:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1OtOIka_KfPRQPZcUM6uDq4RTMRHJF0NEVR8Rz-OxQJg/edit
The cost for each entry is $8.
Filmmakers compete within three divisions:
Division I (Grades 2 & 3)
Division II (Grades 4, 5 & 6)
Division III (Grades 7, 8, 9)
Submission implies acceptance of the Rules and Regulations by all producers, directors and/or actors working on the submitted film.
Submission Guidelines: CHECK FOR DATES FOR 2025!!
• All work must be completed and submitted no later than the deadline date:
* Entries can only be submitted in ONE category. Determine which category best
represents your work.
• Winning films will be announced on or before March 18, 2025 for all Divisions
• All films must be in English or subtitled in English
• Original third party music, sound effects, pictures and reference footage may be used if permission by the owner/author is documented in writing and sent in with entry form
• Winning productions failing to comply with copyright requirements will result in the film not being shown at the Reel Spirit Young Filmmakers Showcase, website or other public screenings
• Credits included on your film should NOT include:
Actor's last name
Teacher/Sponsor name
Submitting school name
• Credits on your film MUST include:
Complete information on sources for Music, sound effects, pictures, backgrounds, video clips
Credits on your film MAY include:
Actor's first name only - no last names
• Any copyright infringement will result in a three point penalty
• Subject matter must be appropriate - no violence or inappropriate language
• Entries with extraneous materials, such as “bloopers” will not be accepted
• The filmmaker(s) must secure all rights, licenses, clearances and releases necessary for exhibition as per copyright laws and list those in credits.
• All entry materials become the property of the Reel Spirit Young Filmmakers and will not be returned. No refunds.
• Entries are released to the organizers/sponsors of Reel Spirit for promotional materials, copies and right to show film in the Reel Spirit Young Filmmakers Showcase without compensation or payment.
• By submitting a film, you acknowledge the Reel Spirit Young Filmmakers right to copy any submitted material for non-commercial use only.
AGREEMENTS: If your film or video wins, you agree to and understand the following:
• FORMAT: You agree to provide Reel Spirit Young Filmmakers a full version of the film via ONE of the following:
A. Grant permission to download the full version of the film from FilmFreeway
B. Send the film in a digital format
• SHIPPING: If Reel Spirit is unable to download a full version of your film from FilmFreeway, you are responsible for the time and expense to send a full version of the file via the internet or to ship a DVD copy.
(NOTE: Films saved in VIMEO must enable full version downloads from within VIMEO or provide password)
DO NOT UPLOAD A FILM FROM YOUTUBE OR WeVIDEO. SAVE THE FILM ON YOUR COMPUTER AND UPLOAD from your computer to FilmFreeway. We can accept mp4 format.
• LOSS & DAMAGE: Every precaution will be taken to safeguard films; however, if loss or damage occurs, Reel Spirit Young Filmmakers cannot accept or assume responsibility.
• DIGITALLY SIGNED RELEASE FORM: Sponsor or Mentor is responsible for dispersing and acquiring the Reel Spirit Parental Release form from all students involved in the film.
• Reel Spirit Parental Release form must be digitally signed/approved by a legal Parent or Guardian.
