In the exhilarating yet often bewildering world of independent filmmaking, one of the most pressing questions on every filmmaker's mind is, "Are film festivals worth it?" Amber Living’s vlog dives deep into this very topic, providing an in-depth, candid exploration of the film festival circuit. With her trademark no-nonsense approach, Amber breaks down the ins and outs of navigating this complex arena, offering invaluable advice for filmmakers at every stage of their careers.
The Festival Myth: Not All Are Created Equal
Amber starts by busting a common myth: not all film festivals are created equal. Just because a film festival exists doesn’t mean it’s going to be the right fit for your film—or worth your time and money. From prestigious giants like Cannes, Venice, and Berlin, to smaller, lesser-known festivals that may not offer the exposure you need, the landscape is diverse. It's crucial for filmmakers to understand that the real value of a film festival lies in what it can do for their film and career.
The Purpose of Film Festivals: Exposure, Exposure, Exposure
At its core, the primary purpose of a film festival is exposure. Amber emphasizes that this exposure can come in many forms: whether it’s getting your film distributed, securing more work, or simply building a network of connections that could lead to future opportunities. However, not all festivals will give you the same level of exposure, and some might not be worth the submission fee. Amber warns against blindly submitting to festivals without considering what each one offers. It’s about quality, not quantity.
The Laurel Conundrum: Don’t Be Fooled by the Wreaths
One of the most iconic symbols of film festivals is the laurel wreath, often seen on movie posters as a badge of honor. But Amber cautions filmmakers to look beyond the laurels. Just because a film poster is adorned with countless laurels doesn’t necessarily mean the film is good or that those festivals are prestigious. In some cases, these laurels come from festivals that do little to advance a filmmaker’s career. It’s important to recognize the difference between meaningful accolades and those that are more about quantity than quality.
Red Flags: What to Avoid
Amber provides a comprehensive list of red flags to watch out for when considering film festivals. She advises against online-only festivals unless they offer something substantial in return, like significant exposure without a hefty price tag. Additionally, beware of festivals that don’t include Q&A sessions, lack industry presence, or fail to offer awards. If a festival isn’t helping to elevate your film and career, it might not be worth your time or money.
The Networking Game: More Than Just Screenings
One of the most valuable aspects of attending a film festival is the opportunity to network. Amber stresses that festivals aren’t just about getting your film screened; they’re about making connections with industry professionals, other filmmakers, and potential collaborators. Whether it’s through meet-and-greets, panel discussions, or casual conversations, the relationships you build at these events can be pivotal in your career. It's not enough to just show up and watch your film play—you need to be active, engaged, and ready to connect.
The PR Puzzle: Make Sure Your Festival Has Your Back
Public relations play a crucial role in the success of your film at a festival. Amber advises filmmakers to choose festivals that actively promote their films, rather than leaving all the marketing up to the filmmaker. A good festival will have a PR team dedicated to getting the word out about your film, helping you gain the attention your work deserves.
Tailoring Your Strategy: Research and Plan
Amber emphasizes the importance of tailoring your festival strategy to your film. Whether it’s a horror film, a socially conscious drama, or a veteran-focused narrative, there’s a festival out there that’s a perfect fit. The key is to do your research and make sure you’re submitting to festivals that align with your film’s themes and audience. It’s not just about getting into any festival—it’s about getting into the right ones.
The Big Decision: Are Film Festivals Worth It?
So, after all this, are film festivals worth it? According to Amber, the answer is yes—but only if you’re smart about it. Festivals can be a powerful tool for getting your work seen, but they require a strategic approach. It’s not just about exposure for exposure’s sake—it’s about making sure that exposure leads to meaningful opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Keep Creating, Keep Pushing
In the end, Amber reminds filmmakers that the goal is to keep creating and pushing forward. Festivals are just one part of a larger strategy to get your work out there. As long as you stay focused, plan carefully, and keep your passion alive, film festivals can be a valuable stepping stone in your filmmaking journey.
Watch Amber's original 19 minute vlog post here courtesy Beyond Film School:
About PAIFF: The Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival (PAIFF) is dedicated to showcasing the best in independent filmmaking from around the world. Now in its second season, PAIFF continues to celebrate the art of cinema by bringing together filmmakers, audiences, and industry professionals in a vibrant and inspiring environment.
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