Young Filmmakers Program - Call for Films
Information, Rules and Regulations
1. Eligible Films and Video Submissions
• All entries should not exceed 4 minutes in length
• Entries cannot contain copyrighted material (note music)
• All entries submitted must be suitable in theme and content for one or more of the following age categories: 3-5 year olds and 6-8 year olds.
• Young filmmakers may submit multiple films for consideration. However, only one film per applicant will be showcased, if selected.
• Captions should be added for any spoken language.
• The writing and directing of the entry must originate from the filmmaker 14 years of age or under. Adults can assist the young filmmaker in areas of production and/or editing. Adults may even be in the film, but the overall creative direction of the film should originate wholly from the young filmmaker.
• The Festival accepts all film genres including live-action and animated submissions.
• The Festival accepts submissions in any language or with no language at all. Captions should be added for any language speaking films.
• Content should speak positively to children of diverse backgrounds and cultures and must not contain gender, racial or cultural stereotypes and biases. The content of the films should fit our ideals of racial and gender equity, inclusivity, social justice, and global awareness.
2. Entry
The deadline to submit a film on BAM's FilmFreeway platform is Friday, January 7, 2023 . Applicants are encouraged to submit films earlier than that since film review will occur on a rolling basis.
3. Festival format of films and videos selected
All entries must be submitted as .mov or .mp4 with the file size of 1920x1080
4. Selection
Selection will be made by a review committee made up of BAM staff.
5. Organization
BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music) is a multi-arts center located in Brooklyn, New York. For more than 150 years, BAM has been the home for adventurous artists, audiences, and ideas—engaging both global and local communities. With world-renowned programming in theater, dance, music, opera, film, and much more, BAM showcases the work of emerging artists and innovative modern masters.
6. Mission
The Brooklyn Academy of Music strives to be the home for adventurous artists, audiences, and ideas.
7. Notification of Festival Status
The Festival will inform all entrants no later than January 7 , 2022 if films have been selected to be included in the Young Filmmakers Showcase Program on BAM's website.
8. Additional screenings
Selected entries will also be considered for inclusion in the Seattle Children's Film Festival..
9. Correspondence and contact
For more information, contact Steven McIntosh, Director of Family Programming, smcintosh@bam.org, and Verushka Wray, Senior Manager of Family Programming, vwray@bam.org.
10. Deadlines
January 2, 2024: Deadline to submit a film entry form and film for festival consideration. Please note that we prefer earlier entry.
11. Rulings
BAM reserves the right to rule on cases not covered by these regulations.
