Creating a compelling festival listing on FilmFreeway is crucial to attracting filmmakers and ensuring your event stands out. A strong, well-maintained listing can help you draw more submissions and build a positive reputation in the filmmaking community. Here’s how to create a festival listing that represents your event in the best possible light:
1. Write a Clear and Engaging Festival Overview
Your festival description should immediately communicate the essence of your event. It’s your opportunity to highlight what makes your festival unique and why filmmakers should consider submitting their work.
Mission & Purpose: What is the festival’s vision and focus?
Target Audience: Who will attend? Are they filmmakers, industry professionals, or general audiences?
Special Features: Mention awards, notable guests, or unique aspects of your event.
Call for Entries: Provide details on the types of films you’re looking for and who can submit.
2. Organize Submission Categories Clearly
Clearly define the categories your festival accepts. This helps filmmakers determine the best fit for their submissions. Be specific about the types of films (e.g., shorts, features, documentaries) and any other relevant classifications. Limit the number of categories to ensure a focused and manageable selection process. This clarity will guide submitters and streamline your festival’s programming.
Example Categories:
Narrative Features
Short Films
Documentaries
Experimental Films
Student Films
3. Specify Submission Requirements and Fees
Provide clear information on your submission process, including deadlines, entry fees, and any requirements for film formats or additional materials.
Deadlines: Include all relevant deadlines, including early bird, regular, and late deadlines.
Entry Fees: Be transparent about the fees for each category.
Submission Formats: List accepted formats (e.g., MP4, Vimeo).
Example:
Early Bird Deadline: June 30, 2025 – $40
Regular Deadline: August 31, 2025 – $65
Late Deadline: September 30, 2025 – $80
4. Include Festival Dates and Location
Always specify the festival dates and location. If your event is hybrid or virtual, make sure to clarify this in the listing. Submitters will often reach out to venues for event details, so it’s important to keep this information current and accurate.
5. List Awards and Prizes
If your festival offers awards, be sure to mention them clearly. Include details about the awards, any special recognition, and any tangible prizes (e.g., cash, distribution opportunities).
6. Add Engaging Visuals
High-quality images are a powerful way to show potential submitters what your event looks like. Include images from past festivals or promotional materials to help filmmakers visualize the experience.
Tip: Use diverse images—crowds, awards ceremonies, and candid moments help capture the spirit of your event. If you’re a first-year event, consider designing eye-catching graphics to help your festival stand out.
7. Highlight Key Partnerships or Sponsors
If you have any important sponsors or industry partners, feature them prominently in your listing. This adds credibility and shows that your event is supported by respected organizations.
8. Include Links to Your Website and Social Media
Provide links to your official festival website and social media channels to help filmmakers stay informed and engage with your festival.
All events on FilmFreeway are required to have their own real websites with detailed information about their events before we can publish. Your website and FilmFreeway listing should contain information about the venue for your event and outline the structure of your festival, including the anticipated events and what filmmakers will experience.
9. Keep Your Listing Updated
Your FilmFreeway listing is the main source of information for potential submitters. Be sure to regularly check and update the details of your event, especially if there are any changes to deadlines, categories, or requirements. If anything significant changes, reach out to FilmFreeway Support for assistance.
Tip: Regular updates ensure that filmmakers are always working with the latest information.
10. Monitor Your Account Regularly
To stay on top of submissions and any updates from FilmFreeway, it’s important to check your account regularly. This allows you to address any issues quickly and stay on top of new submissions.
Tip: Checking your account daily can help you manage submissions and respond to inquiries efficiently.
11. Make Contact Easy
Provide an email address or contact form so submitters can reach out with any questions. Ensuring easy and prompt communication builds trust, creates a positive experience, and shows you care about the submitters' journey.
Responding promptly to inquiries from filmmakers can positively impact your festival’s reputation. If a submitter has a question about FilmFreeway’s platform, refer them to FilmFreeway Support for quick assistance.
As always, our team is here and happy to provide further guidance to help your festival thrive. Feel free to reach out to us anytime at festivalsupport@filmfreeway.com.
We recommend reviewing Best Practices for a Successful Call for Entries for further guidance!