SUBMISSION rules
Submissions are accepted only through electronic submission via Film Freeway.
More than one entry may be submitted. However, each entry must be accompanied by a separate entry form and entry fee.
Films not in English must have English subtitles.
Entries must be received on or before the deadlines and submission fee payment must be made in full at time of the submission. All entry fees are non-refundable.
Entrants are responsible for obtaining any necessary licenses, royalties, release forms, clearances and permits necessary to present their work. The First City Film Festival is not responsible for any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits or royalty infringement related to the work.
The following must be source referenced in credits at the end of the production:
All music, sound effects, pictures and reference footage, whether original and/or non-original
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
Music, sound effects, pictures, and video clips purchased or available through filming or editing software is acceptable and must be referenced in the credits
All film entries selected for the festival grant the First City Film Festival the rights to use footage, stills, titles and information from the film for promotional purposes.
All filmmakers will be notified via email regarding their acceptance into the Festival.
All genres are welcome. For screenings festival staff will place your film in the appropriate category. (See Categories here)
- Early bird deadline - September 29
- Regular deadline - October 31
- Late deadline - November 30
- Extended deadline - December 22
Works in Progress are accepted for extended deadlines only. WiP's should be clearly marked on the submission disc “Work in Progress” or “Rough Cut” and also indicate when exactly the final edited version will be available.
- Early deadline shorts $20 Features $30
- Regular deadline shorts $25 Features $35
- Late deadline shorts $35 Features $45
- Extended deadline Shorts $45 Features $55
- Payment can be made through Film Freeway
- Completed and signed “First City Film Festival” submission form.
- Entry Fee (non-refundable)
- Any available press materials and Media-Kit, Credit list, Lead Actors and Directors bio and Photo.
Submitted materials will not be returned and there are no refunds.
Multiple Submissions: When sending in more than one project, each one must have its own submission material. Submission fees apply to each individual entry and category. You may use one check to cover entry fees for all works you are submitting at the same time.
Official selections will be will be made on or about January 5, 2018 and notifications will be sent via email. Those not selected will be notified via email the following week.
The selection committees’, jury’s and festival director’s decisions are final.
Once selected as a part of the official festival, a film may not pull out of the festival or withdraw its submission.
If selected you should be able to provide the following material:
- Exhibition print or video;
- Two full press kits including film stills and directors bio and Photo;
- 60 Seconds Digital Video clip or trailer for promotional press;
- The project synopsis with cast and crew credits.
All submissions must be sent through Film Freeway.
If your project is selected, you are responsible for delivery of the exhibition print or video to our offices by the designated date. The festival will handle the return shipping of your print or video after the conclusion of the festival.
Each category within the festival will host a juried competition for "Best of...". Additional awards may be given within each category at the judgment of the jury (i.e. best actor, cinematographer, editing, sound, etc.).
Award winning filmmakers will receive a physical award and a small cash award. Additional awards might be added and announced at a later date based on festival sponsors and donations.
Filmmakers who have their films selected for the festival will receive an admissions package to the festival. The admissions package will include instructions for delivering exhibition video.
If you have questions regarding the submissions process, please email: firstcityfilm@gmail.com