Q: How do I enter the Film Festival Poster Contest?
A: Whether you are Elementary (K-5) or Secondary (6-8), and whether you want to create a Digital or Traditional poster, all requirements can be found on the Poster Contest page.
Q: When is the Film Festival?
A: The date, time, and location, along with other helpful information, can be found on the Ceremony Information page.
Q: If my film wins, what happens?
A: If your film wins, you receive a trophy and get to give a small speech on stage. See the Ceremony Information page for more information.
Q: Who can attend the Film Festival?
A: Anyone can attend the Film Festival! We welcome family, friends, and school mates of our film makers to join us for a fun filled night. More information about the Film Festival can be found on the Ceremony Information page.
Q: When are films due for the Film Festival?
A: Film Festival due date (meaning when films must be submitted to MCPSS Instructional Technology), along with other important dates, can be found in the Important Dates section on the General Requirements page.
Q: What file type does my film need to be when I submit?
A: For specific file types that can be submitted to the Film Festival, see the Other section on the General Requirements page.
Q: What are the different Categories and Divisions?
A: For a breakdown of Categories and Divisions, see the Category / Submissions section on the General Requirements page. More specific information about individual categories can be found on the Categories page, which has links to the category you wish to learn more about.
Q: Does my film have to meet any certain time requirements?
A: Yes, films are limited to a certain length, depending on category. See the Other section on the General Requirements page for specific limitations.
Q: Can my parents, teachers, or other adults help me with my film?
A: Yes, but in a limited capacity. See the Adult Assistance section on the General Requirements page for what roles adults can play in your film.
Q: Can I use AI to help with my film?
A: See the AI Usage section on the General Requirements page for specific information about what is acceptable for the Film Festival.
Q: Are credits required for ALL films?
A: Yes, credits are now required for ALL films. See the Credits section on the General Requirements page for what must be included.
Q: Can I use a song from the radio in my film?
A: Copyrighted songs can not be used without permission. See the Copyright section on the General Requirements page for guidance on using copyrighted material.
Q: Where can I get sound effects and music for my film?
A: There are many sites to find sound effects and music that are royalty free or creative commons. See the Audio section of the Resources page for several suggestions.
Q: What programs can I use to edit my film?
A: There are many sites and programs that offer video editing. See the Video Editing section of the Resources page for several suggestions.
Q: Where can I find cost-effective and good quality accessories, such as tripods, lights, mics, etc.?
A: There are many places to purchase such items. If you're interested in accessories that could help you in your film-making, see the Accessory section of the Resources page.
Q: Are there rubrics that I can use to know how my film will be judged, or checklists that I can use to be sure I completed all requirements?
A: Yes, category specific rubrics can be found on each Category page under Categories. A QR code link or a downloadable copy of a checklist can be found on each Category page.
Q: How do I enter the Film Festival?
A: Once you have completed your film according to the General Requirements, and have gone through the checklist on the Category page, a teacher at your school can submit it according to the directions found on the Enter the Festival page. If you don't know which teacher at your school is doing this, please email Mr. Joseph Sikes at jsikes@mcpss.com and he will assist you.
Q: Can I see the winning films from previous years?
A: Yes! The winning films for each category for the last several years can be found on the Previous Winners page.