At the heart of Film Revolution (formerly "Genesis" Film Festival) lies a question that embodies the very essence of independent cinema: "Does the filmmaker choose the story, or does the story haunt the filmmaker?" This isn’t just a query. It's an introspective journey, a reflection of the tumultuous relationship between creators and their art.

For many, filmmaking isn't just about telling tales; it's a cathartic ritual. Behind each frame, there's a heartbeat, a tear, a chuckle, a memory. The process can be therapeutic, allowing filmmakers to confront their innermost fears, to heal, to grow. But with this therapy comes the terror of the unknown, of laying one's soul bare for the world to see.

Independent film is more than just a category of cinema. It’s deeply personal, often emerging from the very core of a filmmaker's being.

We understand that for many, this isn't about box office numbers or critical acclaim, but about a burning passion, a need to express, to challenge, to provoke. Unfettered by commercial pressures, independent cinema is the playground for the avant-garde, the experimental, the brave. It's an art movement, one that doesn’t seek permission but boldly, unapologetically breaks barriers. It's where colors bleed outside the lines, where sounds defy structures, and where narratives dance freely, unrestricted by formulaic boundaries.

Film Revolution recognizes this rebellion. We don’t just celebrate films; we honor the audacity of their creators.

In essence, Film Revolution is not just a festival. It's a salute to the brave souls who dare to challenge the cinematic behemoth, armed with nothing but their stories and their passion. And in this battle, it's not about who wins but about the stories that emerge, raw, unfiltered, and profoundly human.

We understand the frustrations of the long waits after submitting to the big 5 festivals. Hence, Film Revolution emerged as the response to that void, offering a platform where recognition isn't months away but almost immediate. With a cash prize worth $1,000 and the opportunity to earn competitive laurels, we're not just another festival; we're a revolution.

CRITERIA

Our heart beats for audacious films that don't shy away from delving into philosophical explorations. We champion pieces that mirror life's intricacies, transcending genres and conventional norms. Whether it's a heart-wrenching drama, a thought-provoking sci-fi, or an avant-garde experimental piece, if it provokes thought and exudes authenticity, it has a home at Film Revolution.

CONTEST CATEGORIES

Best Picture
Best Feature Film
Best Medium-Length Film
Best Short Film
Best Micro-Short Film
Best Student Film
Best Experimental Film
Best Queer
​Best Animation
Best TV Series or Pilot Episode
Best Zero / Low-Budget Film
Best Avant-Garde Film
Best Feature Screenplay
Best Short Screenplay
Best TV Script
​Best Drama
Best Comedy or Musical
Best Action, Sci-Fi or Fantasy
Best Horror or Thriller
Best Feature Documentary
Best Short Documentary
Best Original Podcast
Best Music Video
Best New Media
​​Best Film Trailer
Best Film Poster
​Best Directing
Best First-Time Director
Best Young Filmmaker
Best Original Screenplay
Best Original Concept
Best Cinematography
Best Lead Actor
Best Lead Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Best Supporting Actress
Best Ensemble Cast
Best Editing & VFX
​Best Original Animation Style
Best Sound Design
Best Original Score
​Best Original Song
Best Production Design
​Best Costume Design
​Best Makeup & SFX

Copyright Ownership: By submitting your work to Film Revolution, you affirm that all components of your project, including music, fonts, visuals, and any other elements, are either your intellectual property or, if you're acting as a distributor, you have secured explicit permission from the copyright holder. Your work must be cleared for festival exhibition globally and in perpetuity.

Promotional Use: You grant Film Revolution the right to use stills, short clip fragments, and other relevant materials from your film for promotional, educational, and documentation purposes on the festival's official platforms, including its website, social media channels, and other promotional mediums.

Film Access: You allow the festival director and authorized personnel to download your film, ensuring streamlined offline evaluation, festival programming, and curation procedures.

IMDb Updates: While Film Revolution will endeavor to update awards and nominations on your IMDb pages, the festival is not responsible for generating new film pages if they don't already exist.

Professionalism: All participants, including filmmakers, crew, and attendees, are expected to uphold a high standard of professional and respectful behavior throughout the festival duration.

Feedback Mechanism: While Film Revolution values every submission, personalized feedback for each entry may not be provided unless specifically opted for through designated channels.

Non-Refundable Policy: Submission fees are final and non-refundable, irrespective of the outcome or status of your film within the festival.

​Award Consideration: A single submission fee ensures your film is evaluated across all pertinent festival award categories, optimizing its potential recognition.

Multiple Film Entries: Film production teams or individuals may submit more than one project within the same festival year.
Discount Waivers: Discounted entry fees are available for student and disabled filmmakers. In rare cases, based on the festival's discretion, complete fee waivers may be granted.
Communication: Upon submission to Film Revolution, you agree to be added to our newsletter and mailing list for updates and information.

Selection Clarification: Submission to Film Revolution doesn't automatically grant the film an 'Official Selection' status.

Accurate Credits: You confirm that the credits list provided with your submission is thorough and accurate.

Festival Discretion: Film Revolution reserves the right to disqualify any film based on set criteria, ensuring the festival's integrity and reputation.

Language Policy: Films can be submitted in English without subtitles. For films in other languages, accompanying English subtitles are mandatory. Only English screenplays are accepted.

PRIVACY POLICY

Newsletter and Promotional Communications Opt-In:
By entering the competition, you automatically opt-in to receive marketing communications from partner film festivals and film awards competitions.

Opting Out: At any time, recipients can choose to opt-out of our electronic communications.

Data Protection: All personal information provided will be safeguarded per relevant data protection regulations.

Policy Updates: Film Revolution retains the right to adjust this Privacy Policy based on evolving needs and legal stipulations.

Contact: If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy Clause, please feel free to contact us at hq@filmrevolutionfest.com

You agree to have read and accepted Film Revolution's rules, regulations, and code of conduct.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Jeffrey Milne

    Excellent festival to be involved with on any level.

    February 2024
  • Many thanks to the judges who nominated "Pit & Pendulum" for the BEST ZERO BUDGET FILM category.

    December 2023
  • Niko Kostet

    Well worth of your well earned few bucks...

    December 2023
  • Film Revolution is a terrific, supportive and uplifting organization. I highly recommend entering.

    December 2023
  • susan osberg

    Happy to have Mining the Moon Nominated in Film Revolution

    December 2023