Applying for Film Festivals

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[One x 300 word reflection on the process of applying to a minimum of two open calls such as festivals or screening opportunities that you have submitted your film or projects to.]

I have so far applied for two Film Festivals. 
This is the NYC Mental Health Film Festival. I have applied for this, submitting my film "DEFINITION" - completed by myself alone during the Exploration Unit (link: https://vimeo.com/244385013 )
NYC Mental Health Film Festival Application Page

Application Process (NYC Mental Health Film Festival)

Application Process (NYC Mental Health Film Festival)
Application Process (NYC Mental Health Film Festival)
The second open call that I have applied for is the Filmed Up: North West Filmmakers Night at HOME. This process was significantly more simple than the NYC Mental Health Film Festival. I didn't need to wait for any uploading times, as it was a simple URL paste, as represented on the image.
The only page for applying for the Open Call (Filmed Up - HOME)

The only page for applying for the Open Call (Filmed Up - HOME)


Submitted! (Filmed Up - HOME)

When comparing the two application processes, it is very clear as to why the NYC Film Festival is more detailed when compared to Filmed Up at HOME. Filmed Up is a local screening opportunity, exclusively for filmmakers in the area. It is not designed to be an open call for international film. However, the NYC Mental Health Film Festival has an open call for films created worldwide. This is more understandable for a few reasons; one - there is a reward. Secondly, it is a much more niche audience, compared to Filmed Up, where whilst it's a small location, any film of any date is permitted, regardless of genre or plot. The NYC Festival is exclusively for films or documentaries based around the subject of mental health, thus immediately shrinking their target audience applicants.

It's highly insightful, applying to two largely different open calls. I'm keen and excited to send my work out into all areas, from local, independent cinemas to festivals worldwide. Whilst I am unsure as to whether or not I will be successful, it is most definitely a learning curve and a lesson I am excited to have for future experiences.

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