Narrative films tell a story with cohesive, connected events. Usually fictional, narratives rely on believable storylines and characters to help convince your audience that they’re watching real life play out onscreen. Films in this genre cover a wide range of themes and ideas, from goofy comedies to serious dramas, or moving, personal stories that tug at a viewer’s heartstrings. No matter what subject matter you choose, pay attention to how pacing, camera angles, music and other filmmaking techniques can all help craft a convincing narrative film.
Making a narrative film of your own? Check out filmmaking tools, tips, and classroom-ready resources on the Beyond the Peaks festival homepage and in our Storytelling and Filmmaking collection on PBS LearningMedia.
Narrative category requirements:
- Films must have a run time of 5 minutes or less.
- Pre-production materials include a script and storyboard.
- Additional materials include a poster, trailer, synopsis, and cast & crew lists.
Students can submit original films in a variety of additional categories including Documentary, 60-Second Challenge, Thriller, and Open.
Discover Engaging Narrative Films
Get inspired to create your own narrative film with this selection of student filmmaker productions. Explore engaging onscreen stories—from a boy’s imagination (literally) running wild to a glimpse at current events playing out in Canadian suburbia—there’s lots to discover with narratives.
Armoire | Beyond the Peaks Film Fest 2025
Watch as a reclusive man of routine descends into madness when he finds his work abruptly interrupted by sentient drawers in his office. Submitted by Saratoga Springs High School students Dylan Ferrara and Max Greenblatt, “Armoire” was the Narrative category and 1st Place Overall winner in the 2025 Beyond the Peaks Film Festival.
Daydreams | Beyond the Peaks Film Fest 2025
A boy’s imagination can run wild. But in Liam’s case, he can’t seem to use his imagination on his English assignment. As Liam struggles to complete his essay, his mind takes him to crazy places, including the jungles of Jurassic Park, the depths of outer space, the crowds of a soccer stadium, and on a secret spy mission. Will his daydreams keep him from finishing his essay? Submitted by Queensbury Senior High School student Jaden Telesco, “Daydreams” was a Narrative category nominee and 2nd Place Overall winner in the 2025 Beyond the Peaks Film Festival.
Critical Crust | Beyond the Peaks Film Fest 2025
“Critical Crust,” a Narrative category nominee and the 3rd Place Overall winner in the 2025 Beyond the Peaks Film Festival, was submitted by Marianopolis College student Kian Hezarkhani. The film—a bizarre comedy based on cutting nuclear bread—incorporates light-hearted jokes and absurdist imagery to create a playful commentary on current events, recognizing that we are living in exciting times.
Enter the “Beyond the Peaks Student Film Festival”!
To get started, create a student or teacher account on Launchpad. Explore tutorials, resources, and step-by-step instructions on how to successfully submit your completed film entries!
Documentary | Narrative | Thriller | 60-Second Challenge | Open entry
Submissions are due May 13th with winners announced at an end-of-school year Red Carpet Showcase. The top three winners will receive a cash prize and video supplies!
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