### The Better Than Awesome Short Film Festival

**Who:**
For Filmmakers, Moviegoers, Storytellers, Artists, Authors, Musicians, Creators, Creatives, Fans, and more!

**Why:**
Welcome to The Better Than Awesome Short Film Festival—an immersive celebration of cinematic brilliance, dedicated to the power and magic of short films. Our journey begins on May 4th, 2024, at the iconic Bug Theatre in the vibrant city of Denver, CO.

**Our Story:**
Inspired by a love for short films that transcend the ordinary, our festival founder embarked on a quest to bring together a collection of shorts so extraordinary that they defy conventional description. Drawing on experiences from running a monthly “open mic” for filmmakers, called “Short Your Shorts” up in Seattle, he understood the challenges filmmakers face in sharing their creations and the struggle for audiences to discover hidden gems.

**The Vision:**
Imagine a cinematic experience where each frame tells a story, where creativity knows no bounds, and where the extraordinary becomes the norm. The Better Than Awesome Short Film Festival is a platform for filmmakers worldwide to showcase their talents and for audiences to witness the most exceptional short films curated from across the globe.

**What to Expect:**
- A carefully curated selection of short films that redefine the boundaries of storytelling.
- Engaging discussions with filmmakers, fostering a community of creativity.
- An unforgettable night of cinematic exploration at The Bug Theatre, where every film promises to be "Better Than Awesome."

**Join Us:**
Whether you're a filmmaker eager to share your vision, a moviegoer hungry for unique stories, or a creative soul seeking inspiration, The Better Than Awesome Short Film Festival is where you belong. Together, let's celebrate the art of storytelling, one extraordinary short film at a time.

**Save the Date and Stay Tuned for Awesomeness on May 4th, 2024!**

Awards & Prizes

1. **Best Short Film:**
- Awarded to the film that stands out as the most exceptional and awe-inspiring, redefining the boundaries of storytelling.

2. **Best Director:**
- Recognizing the visionary director who skillfully crafted a film that goes "Beyond Awesome."

3. **Best Screenplay:**
- Celebrating the writer behind the captivating story, pushing the limits of creativity and narrative.

4. **Best Cinematography:**
- Awarded to the film that showcases outstanding visual storytelling and mastery in cinematography.

5. **Best Editing:**
- Recognizing the seamless editing that enhances the overall impact of the film.

6. **Best Sound Design:**
- Celebrating the film that excels in auditory storytelling, creating an immersive and memorable experience.

7. **Best Original Score:**
- Awarded to the composer of the film with a captivating original score that enhances the storytelling.

8. **Best Animation Short:**
- Recognizing excellence in the animation genre, whether it's traditional, CGI, or innovative techniques.

9. **Best Documentary Short:**
- Celebrating the exceptional storytelling in the documentary genre that leaves a lasting impact.

10. **Best Experimental Short:**
- Awarded to the film that boldly explores new and innovative approaches to storytelling.

11. **Best Comedy Short:**
- Recognizing outstanding achievements in the comedy genre, making audiences laugh while pushing creative boundaries.

12. **Best Drama Short:**
- Celebrating the film that delivers powerful emotional impact and resonates with audiences.

13. **Best Student Short Film:**
- Awarded to the most outstanding short film created by a student filmmaker, showcasing emerging talent.

14. **Audience Choice Award:**
- Voted on by festival attendees, recognizing the film that resonates most with the audience.

15. **Special Jury Recognition:**
- Awarded at the discretion of the festival jury to films that exhibit exceptional qualities deserving of special acknowledgment.

Prizes TBD based on number of submissions and sponsorships involved. It's our first year, but we are going to be looking for the best Short Films of all time, for a long time going forward!

Join us! Help find the Short Films that leave you saying "wow, that was better than awesome!"

Rules & Terms

Welcome to the Better Than Awesome Short Film Festival! We're on a quest to discover the most extraordinary short films from all time. Before you submit your masterpiece, please take note of the following rules and terms:

Film Duration:
We welcome short films of all durations, from quick hits to longer narratives. However, each submission must be a showcase of exceptional storytelling and creativity.
Submission Deadline:
Submissions are accepted year-round. Keep an eye on our website for specific deadlines for each festival edition.
Online Submissions:
All submissions must be made online through our designated platform. Ensure download capabilities are enabled for our review.
Film Hosting and Rental Opportunity:
As part of our commitment to filmmakers, we offer an option to help host and rent your short film beyond the festival. This provides an additional avenue for your work to reach a broader audience. More details available upon request.
Online Screenings:
Online screenings will be made available if we achieve our target number of submissions. Help us unlock this feature by spreading the word and encouraging fellow filmmakers to submit.
Submission Fees:
Please refer to our submission platform for details on entry fees. These fees contribute to the sustainability and success of the festival.
Press Pack:
Upon submission, filmmakers are required to provide a mini press pack. This should include a one-paragraph synopsis, a short staff biography with photos of the director and producer, and any additional promotional materials.
Multiple Submissions:
Filmmakers are welcome to submit multiple projects. Each submission should be made separately, with the corresponding entry fee paid for each film.
Contact Information:
All submissions must include thorough contact information, including email address and phone number.
Promotional Use:
By submitting your film, you grant us the right to screen it in front of live audiences and, under special circumstances, for online screenings. Additionally, we may use clips from your film for promotional purposes, unless you choose to opt out by contacting us during the submission process.
Film Eligibility:
Films must have been produced at any time in the past. We are on the lookout for the best of the best short films from across the years.
Language and Subtitles:
Foreign language entries are accepted but must include English subtitles.
Decision Authority:
All decisions made by the Better Than Awesome Short Film Festival are final and at our discretion.
Terms Update:
We reserve the right to update our terms and conditions. Any changes will be communicated through email and our online platforms.
Optional Hosting and Rental Services:
Take advantage of our optional hosting and rental services to extend the reach of your short film. Contact us for more information.
Thank you for considering the Better Than Awesome Short Film Festival for your extraordinary creations! We can't wait to experience the magic of your storytelling.