FEEDBACK ON YOUR ENTRIES
We don’t provide individual feedback on entries due to the volume of submissions.
Instead, we ask our judges to share insights and advice based on the work they review. Below is a collection of guidance from industry professionals, from general filmmaking principles to common areas for improvement.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
* Innovation — Is this a story we haven’t seen before? Does it tell something in a new way
* Storytelling — Is it clear, engaging and well-paced?
* Craft — Is there a considered visual and creative approach?
* Engagement — Would you recommend it to others?
STORY & STRUCTURE
* Focus on one clear, simple idea and keep it concise
* Many films lose impact because they aren’t succinct
* The story should be at the heart of the film
* Make sure your narrative builds and has a strong payoff
* Longer doesn’t mean better, refine your idea until it’s sharp
AUDIENCE & IMPACT
* What do you want the audience to feel or take away?
* Always keep your viewer in mind, you’re making it for them
* Hook your audience in the first 5 seconds
* Think about what makes your work memorable
* Decide whether story or emotion is most important, and be clear on your intention
ORIGINALITY & RISK
* Take risks, make something you’ve never seen before
* Think: has this been done before? How can you push it further?
* Lean into your unique point of view
* Don’t be afraid to break convention
* What separates your work from everything else?
CRAFT & EXECUTION
* Don’t rely on visuals alone, story matters most
* Pay attention to sound, it’s 50% of the film
* Poor lighting or audio can undermine a strong idea
* Use shot length intentionally, don’t rush everything
* Film additional coverage (B-roll) to support your edit
* Ensure clarity in screen direction and overall storytelling
PRACTICAL ADVICE
* Watch as many films as possible
* Borrow, learn from and build on what inspires you
* Keep asking “why” throughout the process
* Keep making work, consistency matters
* Plan your story clearly from script through to edit
EXAMPLES OF FEEDBACK FROM JUDGES
“Beautiful visuals and strong concepts, but some films lacked a clear narrative thread.”
“The idea was strong, but the product wasn’t clearly shown, holding on key moments would have improved clarity.”
“Fast edits can be effective, but sometimes letting moments breathe creates more impact.”