One of the best ways to do that is to enter film contests and festivals whenever you can.  Many of these events are juried, meaning your work is screened before it is accepted, so even having your film accepted in the festival is a mark of achievement.  Of course, winning in any category and at any level can be an important step forward in your career.  Another highlight of having your film in a festival is that many times you are invited to attend or you can attend on your own. Once you are there you should actively market yourself to gain press coverage and industry connections.

There are many of these contests and festivals all over the country--some large, some small.   Entry fees and requirements vary.  It is important to honestly evaluate your own project to determine which type of festival or contest would be appropriate for it. This will save you money, materials, and time in the long run.  It will also help you to focus your energy on the festivals that will earn you the most, be it awards, press, or distribution offers.  The Film Coordinator will be happy to help you decide where to place your entry, and to advise you on the preparation of your entry.  Once you are accepted into a festival, you will be presented with a waiver form that asks you to state that you have cleared the rights to use all music, appearances, and footage in your film. You should prepare for this beforehand by creating only original material or getting the permission to use the pre-recorded material and keeping track of all records and signed contracts.  Screenplays will often need to be registered with the WGA or Library of Congress.

Chapman University funds some contest and festival entry fees on selected projects; for details, contact our Film Coordinator at dhorne@chapman.edu .