Short Film
Description
The Short Film category provides a platform for participants to showcase their storytelling and cinematic creativity through compelling short films. Open to individuals and groups of up to two participants, this category celebrates the art of visual storytelling as a powerful medium to inform, entertain, and inspire audiences.
Participants have the opportunity to create short films in any genre or style, emphasising narrative originality, technical excellence, and emotional impact. This category encourages aspiring filmmakers to explore meaningful themes and engage viewers through the art of film.
Focus Areas
- Cultural Heritage: Highlighting stories that celebrate and preserve cultural traditions, identities, and diversity.
- Environmental Advocacy: Creating films that raise awareness about ecological issues and inspire sustainable actions.
- Social Empowerment: Addressing themes of equality, inclusion, and social justice to foster understanding and change.
- Historical Reflection: Exploring historical events, figures, or eras to connect audiences with the past and its relevance today.
- Technological Innovation: Experimenting with emerging technologies or creative techniques in storytelling and film production.
Application Rules
Eligibility
- Submissions are open to individuals or groups of up to two participants.
- All submissions must be original and adhere to the guidelines outlined below.
Short Film
- A 3 to 7-minute original video with high-quality audio and visuals for optimal representation.
- All creative elements, including music and visuals, must comply with copyright regulations, with proper credits included.
- Provide English subtitles for any non-English dialogue to ensure accessibility.
- Include a screenplay or detailed storyboard as a PDF file (maximum size: 5 MB).
- File name: English characters only, less than 25 characters.
Visual Concept Board
- Optional but recommended: A Visual Concept Board— a collection of images, sketches, or design elements illustrating the mood, aesthetics, and narrative essence of your film.
- Submit as a PDF file (maximum size: 5 MB).
Judging Criteria
Storytelling and Narrative Impact (30%)
- Clarity of Narrative: Is the story well-structured and easy to follow?
- Originality: Does the film present a unique and innovative concept?
- Emotional Resonance: Does the story evoke emotions or leave a lasting impact on the audience?
- Relevance: How effectively does the narrative align with the chosen focus area?
Technical Excellence (25%)
- Audio and Visual Quality: Are the audio and visuals clear and professional?
- Cinematography: Does the film demonstrate effective use of camera angles, lighting, and framing?
- Editing: Are transitions, pacing, and continuity smooth and well-executed?
- Sound Design: Is music and sound effectively used to enhance the narrative?
Creative Expression (20%)
- Artistic Vision: Does the film showcase a distinct creative style or approach?
- Visual Aesthetics: Are the visuals engaging and aligned with the film’s mood and theme?
- Innovative Techniques: Does the film incorporate new or experimental methods in storytelling or production?
Adherence to Theme (15%)
- Theme Integration: How effectively does the film explore and reflect the chosen focus area?
- Consistency: Is the theme woven cohesively throughout the film’s narrative and visuals?
- Message Impact: Does the film convey a meaningful or thought-provoking message related to the theme?
Presentation Quality (10%)
- Submission Accuracy: Does the film meet technical and submission guidelines (runtime, format, subtitles, etc.)?
- Overall Impression: Is the film polished, cohesive, and impactful as a complete work?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can international participants join?
Yes, this competition is open to participants from all countries unless explicitly restricted by specific eligibility criteria.
Are team members required to be from the same school or organisation?
No, team members can be from different schools, organisations, or even different locations, as long as collaboration is feasible.
Can I submit a project I’ve already presented elsewhere?
Yes, but it must meet the research paper requirements and include a new angle or updated findings.
Can I submit in more than one category?
Yes, you can submit projects in multiple categories, but only one submission per category is allowed.
Cultural Heritage
Celebrate and preserve cultural traditions, identities, and diversity by narrating stories that highlight the richness of heritage, fostering pride, understanding, and global appreciation.
Environmental Advocacy
Inspire sustainable actions by crafting films that spotlight urgent ecological issues, raise awareness, and motivate audiences to protect the planet for future generations.
Social Empowerment
Promote equality, inclusion, and social justice through stories that challenge stereotypes, ignite change, and advocate for a more harmonious and equitable world.
Historical Reflection
Connect audiences with the past by exploring pivotal historical events, figures, or eras, offering insights into their relevance and lessons for today's world.
Technological Innovation
Experiment with emerging technologies or creative techniques to push boundaries, redefine cinematic storytelling, and imagine the future of film and innovation.
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