First Prize

$1000

Second Prize

$500

Third Prize

$250

Categories

Documentary

Films in the Documentary category examine real events, people or topics and aim to inform or educate viewers. Run time: 5 minutes or less.

Public Service Announcement

Films in the PSA category showcase public service announcements that convince your audience to take action. Run time: 90 seconds or less.

Thriller

Films in the Thriller category can range from stories with excitement and suspense to the downright scary. Run time: 5 minutes or less.

Narrative

Films in the Narrative category tell a story with cohesive, connected events, like a comedy or drama. Run time: 5 minutes or less.

Open

Films in the Open category don’t fit in any other category. This can include music videos, animation, experimental films, or others. Run time: 5 minutes or less.

Storytelling & Filmmaking

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Latest updates

FAQ

When is the festival?

The festival runs through the 2023-2024 school year.

Submissions are due April 30, 2024 by 11:59 PM. A Red Carpet Showcase event will take place in June 2024.

Who can participate?

High School students, grades 9-12, located in NY, VT and QC are eligible to enter.

How do I submit my film?

The film festival uses a platform called Launchpad. Students and teachers can register, view filmmaking tutorials, and submit films at: https://beyondthepeaks.skills21.org/

Launchpad complies with New York’s Edlaw 2-d. If you require a signed Data Privacy Agreement, please contact Education@mlpbs.org.

What is required to submit my film?

All submissions must include:

Film trailer, poster, synopsis, cast and crew lists, and a final film at or under required run-time.

Pre-production materials vary by film entry category. These may include:

Script, storyboard, and/or interview questions.