How can you write a film festival submission cover letter that stands out?

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If you want to get your film noticed by festival programmers, you need to write a compelling cover letter that showcases your vision, passion, and professionalism. A cover letter is not just a summary of your film, but a personal introduction that explains why you made it, what you hope to achieve, and how it fits the festival's criteria. In this article, you will learn how to write a film festival submission cover letter that stands out from the crowd and grabs the attention of the readers.

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1 Know your audience

Before you start writing your cover letter, you need to do some research on the festival you are applying to. Find out what kind of films they are looking for, what their mission and values are, and who are the key people involved. This will help you tailor your letter to their specific interests and expectations, and show that you have done your homework. You can also mention any relevant connections or references you have with the festival, such as previous screenings, awards, or contacts.

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Nina Gilden Seavey

President at Seavey Media
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There is really no need to write a cover letter unless you or your film have some personal connection to the festival - for example, if you are a local (either present or past), or someone in the film (either a subject or actor) is from the city where the festival is hosted. But even in those circumstances, write it in the cover letter but send a follow-up to the festival programmer to let him or her know about the local connection. Otherwise, it's just about the quality of the work.

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Neil Goldstein

Associate Professor, Montgomery County Community College, Retired
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Much the same way you got the first "yes" to produce the piece: Show your passion. Connect that passion to the film festival's mission and the person responsible for acceptance. Most of all, use that passion to get them to screen the film. . . . and do it as a media master . . . using clear, concise language in a short precis.

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Maida Withers

Innovator, Choreographer, Dancer, Scholar, Filmmaker, Professor
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Hi, Nina. Miss seeing you. I am retiring from GW after 58 years May 31, 2024. Have some interesting plans. Let's go to lunch? Maida Withers

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Virginia Travers

Owner founder Lunaventure
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Keep it simple. Most folks that read your letter are not filmmakers. The 4 W's who, what , where and why. However ,it depends on the festival.

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Charlie T Savage

Annoyingly hilarious Producer, Coordinator and Screenwriter | California Film Commission
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Crafting a standout film festival submission cover letter involves personalization and conciseness. I introduce my film with a compelling hook, highlighting its unique elements. Expressing enthusiasm for the specific festival and detailing my passion for the project creates a connection. Briefly outlining key achievements and the film's impact adds credibility. Closing with gratitude and an invitation for further discussion leaves a memorable impression, ensuring my submission stands out amid the competition.

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2 Hook them with a strong opening

The first paragraph of your cover letter is crucial, as it will determine whether the reader will continue or move on to the next submission. You need to hook them with a strong opening that captures their curiosity and interest. You can do this by using a catchy logline, a provocative question, a surprising fact, or a personal anecdote that relates to your film. Avoid generic or vague statements that could apply to any film, and focus on what makes your film unique and relevant.

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Caroline Parker Boyd, MFA

Independent Producer | Coordinator | Accessibility Consultant
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Be passionate about your project and why it should be included in their festival. Write a few sentences about your project, and tell the film festival staff why your film is important to you. Is it a personal story? Did a true event inspire you? Programmers want to know why your film matters, regardless of the genre. Vague statements in cover letters get you nowhere. Be clear about the unique elements in your project, and the person reading your cover letter will take note that your film is worth seeing.

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3 Tell them your story

The main body of your cover letter should tell the story of your film and yourself as a filmmaker. You need to explain what your film is about, what inspired you to make it, what challenges you faced, and what message or impact you want to convey. You also need to highlight your skills, achievements, and credentials as a filmmaker, and how they relate to your film. You can include some details about your production process, such as your budget, crew, locations, equipment, or techniques, but don't overload the reader with technical information. Keep it concise, clear, and engaging.

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4 Show them your fit

The last paragraph of your cover letter should show how your film fits the festival's theme, genre, category, or program. You need to demonstrate that you have done your research and that you understand the festival's goals and audience. You can also mention any awards, reviews, or feedback your film has received from other festivals, critics, or viewers, and how they reflect the festival's standards and values. You can also express your enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to submit your film, and invite the reader to contact you for any questions or requests.

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5 Proofread and format

Before you send your cover letter, you need to proofread and format it carefully. You need to check for any spelling, grammar, punctuation, or syntax errors, and make sure your tone is professional and respectful. You also need to format your cover letter according to the festival's guidelines, such as the length, font, margins, or file type. You can also include your contact information, such as your name, email, phone number, website, or social media, at the top or bottom of your letter. You can also attach any supporting materials, such as your film's poster, trailer, press kit, or links, if required by the festival.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you write a film festival submission cover letter that stands out?

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1 Know your audience

2 Hook them with a strong opening

3 Tell them your story

4 Show them your fit

5 Proofread and format

6 Here’s what else to consider

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