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Filmmaking

Description:

The art and process of making motion pictures.

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Overview:
Weave together a compelling story with striking visual aesthetics, and technical expertise to create a powerful medium of expression that not only entertains but also evokes emotions and sparks thought in its audience.

Notes for Judges ● Each contestant will have 5 minutes to present their project and then the judging co-hort will have 5 minutes for any follow up questions and quick deliberations before the next contestant. Each contestant will only have an allocated time frame of 10 minutes. ● You should not under any circumstances engage with the students before or after the competition until the Awards Ceremony has concluded. ● You must provide honest constructive feedback for each contestant that you are judging. ● Scoring Rubric: ○ 95-100 - Qualifies as a Gold Medalist ○ 90+Up - Qualifies as a Silver Medalist ○ 85+Up - Qualifies as a Bronze Medalist ■ Please take heed that the identifying word here is “Qualifies”. There can be multiple contestants that can qualify as gold medalist and if that’s the case the highest score will receive the gold, and silver and bronze will be allocated to the next two highest scores. ■ In the event the highest score is a 90 then there is no gold medalist and there’s only a possibility for a silver and bronze medalist as long as the remaining scores land within the 85+Up region.

Requirements:

 

1.Single Entry: Only one film per Contestant. 

 

2. Short Film Duration: Maximum running time of 5 minutes.

 

3. Storyboard Submission:

  • A storyboard, either digitally rendered or hand-drawn, must be submitted prior to the competition. 

  • Storyboards should be printed and cannot be displayed on a tablet/screen. 

  • Storyboards are not stills from the film but rather original visual representations of the planned film. 

       Email a copy of your storyboard to coraopolisnaacp@gmail.com by the March 10, 2027 Deadline

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4. Format: The film should be submitted in MP4 format.

  • Films can be submitted on a standard DVD for local competitions hosted at a facility requiring DVD usage. 

  • Contestants must ensure video playback on a DVD prior to competition. 

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5. Running Time: Maximum running time of 5 minutes, excluding closing credits. ​

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6. Playback: A playback unit will be provided

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7. National Competition: Advancing contestants will need to upload their film. 

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8. Original Footage: All footage must be original and shot by the contestant.

  • Stock footage or licensed material is not permitted. 

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 9. Contestant Introduction: State your introduction in full, per the Contestant Introduction Script, before your film begins.
 

10. Statement of Integrity: Submit a completed Statement of Integrity Form with your application.
 

Necessary Equipment:
This equipment is provided and standard at the national competition and although this might not be feasible at the local level it is recommended.
 

  1. Projector Screen or TV w/DVD player if using DVD’s.

  2. Projector

  3. Laptop w/charger

  4. Speakers

  5. HDMI Cable

  6. Dongle Adapter for Macbooks

  7. Outlet Surge Protector

 

Required Submissions
• Bio (PDF) → First_Last_Bio
• Contestant Photo (PDF) → First_Last_CP
• Statement of Integrity (PDF) → First_Last_SOI
• Storyboard (PDF) → First_Last_Storyboard
• Video File (MP4) → First_Last_Video
 

When uploading your documents, you must name each file exactly as shown above in order for it to be properly uploaded and integrated into our automated system.
 

Example: John_Doe_WP (using your own first and last name, followed by the file label shown for your category).
 

Note: If files are not received in these formats, they are out of compliance and ineligible until rectified. If they are not corrected before the deadline, the contestant will no longer be able to compete at this year's iteration of the National Competition

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Contestants will be judged by the following criteria:

 

• Creative

10 Points: Storyboard Execution: How well the film matches the storyboard.       

15 Points: Originality: Unique approach, innovative storytelling, or fresh perspective.

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• Production

25 Points: Direction/Structure: Effective use of camera angles, shots, and editing to convey the story 

10 Points: Use of light: Effective use of light to enhance the mood and visuals.

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• Sound

10 Points: Sound Design: Use of sound effects and music to enhance the film's atmosphere​

5 Points: Audibility: Is dialogue clear and audible?

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• Post Production​

20 Points: Editing: Smooth transitions, effective pacing, and overall cohesion.​

5 Points: Titles: Clear and visually appealing title sequence.

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100 Total Points

 

Point Deduction -0.25 per 15 sec

For every 15 seconds the presentation exceeds the allotted time limit (5 minutes), 0.25 point is deducted.

Tips for Filmmaking Contestants:


Story is King: A strong, engaging story is the foundation of a great film.


Visual Language: Use camera angles, shots, and movement to convey emotions and information.


Sound Matters: Good sound design can elevate your film.


Editing is Key: Choose the best takes, create smooth transitions, and maintain a good pace.


Practice Makes Perfect: Experiment with different techniques and styles.


Feedback is Valuable: Seek feedback from peers and mentors.


Have Fun: Enjoy the creative process and let your passion shine through!

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