Info - Film Revolution

ABOUT FILMFEST

THE POSTER’S TALE

At the heart of Film Revolution lies a question that embodies the very essence of independent cinema: "Does the filmmaker choose the story, or does the story haunt the filmmaker?" This isn’t just a query. It's an introspective journey, a reflection of the tumultuous relationship between creators and their art.

Our festival poster is a vivid visualization of the challenges faced by filmmakers. The juxtaposition of a man and a massive movie camera transformed into an intimidating robot epitomizes the internal and external battles they grapple with.

The man, vulnerable yet determined, symbolizes the raw human emotions – the fear, the anxiety, the ambition, and the hope. The robot, on the other hand, embodies the daunting challenges of filmmaking - the technology, the expectations, the criticism, and the overwhelming pressure to conform.

This confrontation isn’t merely about man versus machine, but rather about the filmmaker's internal conflict. It speaks to the tumultuous emotional journey of crafting stories. It’s about facing one's fears and insecurities, wrestling with personal demons, and channeling them into a work of art.

THE CATHARSIS OF CINEMA

For many, filmmaking isn't just about telling tales; it's a cathartic ritual. Behind each frame, there's a heartbeat, a tear, a chuckle, a memory.

The process can be therapeutic, allowing filmmakers to confront their innermost fears, to heal, to grow. But with this therapy comes the terror of the unknown, of laying one's soul bare for the world to see.

BEYOND A GENRE

Independent film is more than just a category of cinema. It’s deeply personal, often emerging from the very core of a filmmaker's being.

It's a movement, a revolution against the conventional, against the commercial, against the expected. This is where stories aren’t manufactured for mass consumption but birthed from genuine human experiences.

THE ARTISTIC REBELLION

Unfettered by commercial pressures, independent cinema is the playground for the avant-garde, the experimental, the brave. It's an art movement, one that doesn’t seek permission but boldly, unapologetically breaks barriers. It's where colors bleed outside the lines, where sounds defy structures, and where narratives dance freely, unrestricted by formulaic boundaries.

Film Revolution recognizes this rebellion. We don’t just celebrate films; we honor the audacity of their creators.

We understand that for many, this isn't about box office numbers or critical acclaim, but about a burning passion, a need to express, to challenge, to provoke.

In essence, Film Revolution is not just a festival. It's a salute to the brave souls who dare to challenge the cinematic behemoth, armed with nothing but their stories and their passion. And in this battle, it's not about who wins but about the stories that emerge, raw, unfiltered, and profoundly human.

HISTORY

Born as "Genesis" in 2023, our festival was a fresh entrant in the cinematic scene. The name signified the beginning, the origin of stories waiting to be told. But as with all things, evolution was inevitable. In 2024, recognizing the revolutionary spirit of our platform, we rebranded to "Film Revolution."
Operated by a dedicated virtual global team based in Montreal, our roots may be in one city, but our reach is undeniably global.

We understand the frustrations of the long waits after submitting to the big 5 festivals. Hence, Film Revolution emerged as the response to that void, offering a platform where recognition isn't months away but almost immediate. With a cash prize worth $1,000 and the opportunity to earn competitive laurels, we're not just another festival; we're a revolution.

JURY

DYLAN TAYLOR
FILM SOUNDTRACK SPECIALIST

Dylan Taylor is a seasoned Music Producer and Sound Designer with a proven track record of creating compelling compositions and enhancing audio quality within the music industry. His expertise in trend analysis and creative direction in sound makes him an invaluable asset to our film festival jury.

M B SIEVE
SCREENPLAY VIRTUOSO & STORY CONSULTANT

Michael B. Sieve is an acclaimed screenwriter with a talent for crafting impactful narratives across genres, garnering over 90 film writing awards. His expertise in script consultation and development is sought after in the film industry, reflecting a career highlighted by compelling storytelling and recognition from top film entities.

GIANNA BROWN
VISIONARY SCREENWRITER & DIRECTOR

Gianna Brown is an acclaimed screenwriter and director with a MFA in Screenwriting, known for her dynamic storytelling and leadership in producing original content. Her extensive experience in mentoring and media production education makes her a profound contributor to our film festival jury.

JASON YOUNG
VISIONARY DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Jason Young is a distinguished Director of Photography and Photographer, known for his skill in creating powerful visual narratives. His work, marked by a blend of technical mastery and creative insight, spans from leading roles at top firms to a dynamic freelance career, solidifying his status as a cinematic innovator.

DANIELLE SHAPIRA
INNOVATIVE VIDEO DIRECTOR

Danielle Shapira stands out as a transformative video director and creative producer, celebrated for her compelling video content for top-tier brands and her creative leadership at Condé Nast. Her expertise in brand storytelling and talent for pioneering successful marketing campaigns make her an asset to our film festival jury.

GRANT LIVINGSTONE
VISIONARY CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Grant Livingstone, esteemed Creative Director, excels in delivering impactful storytelling and visual narratives. Educated at Seattle Central College, his work with META, Contrast Films, and clients like Nordstrom and Vogue showcases his ability to direct with a compelling creative vision.

DREW ROSENFELD
STRATEGIC EXEC VP & MULTI-MEDIA MAESTRO

Drew Rosenfeld shines as an accomplished Exec VP and multi-media specialist with a prolific 25-year career in entertainment, covering TV, film, and music, known for steering innovative content development across multiple platforms. His adept leadership in global broadcast licensing and production, coupled with a rich background in music, positions him as an industry luminary.

FARRELL ROTH
EMMY-NOMINATED TV PRODUCTION MAESTRO

Farrell Roth is an Emmy-nominated TV Field Producer and Unscripted Director with significant experience at E! News and roles on shows like "Entertainment Tonight" and "Extra." As a Film Podcaster and On-Camera Host, she shines in team management and celebrity interviews. Based in Los Angeles, her work spans the Tribeca Film Festival to MTV, highlighting her media industry impact.

CRITERIA

"Does the filmmaker choose the story, or does the story haunt the filmmaker?" At Film Revolution, we believe that stories are the essence of humanity, waiting to be told, shaped, and shared. We are a haven for filmmakers whose tales have not found a place elsewhere, recognizing the burning desire in artists to unveil the human canvas through lens and soul.

Our heart beats for audacious films that don't shy away from delving into philosophical explorations. We champion pieces that mirror life's intricacies, transcending genres and conventional norms. Whether it's a heart-wrenching drama, a thought-provoking sci-fi, or an avant-garde experimental piece, if it provokes thought and exudes authenticity, it has a home at Film Revolution.

Best New Media
Best Film Trailer
Best Film Poster
Best Directing
Best First-Time Director
Best Young Filmmaker
Best Original Screenplay
Best Original Concept
Best Cinematography
Best Lead Actor
Best Lead Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Best Supporting Actress
Best Ensemble Cast
Best Editing & VFX
Best Original Animation Style
Best Sound Design
Best Original Score
Best Original Song
Best Production Design
Best Costume Design
Best Makeup & SFX

CONTEST RULES

Copyright Ownership: By submitting your work to Film Revolution, you affirm that all components of your project, including music, fonts, visuals, and any other elements, are either your intellectual property or, if you're acting as a distributor, you have secured explicit permission from the copyright holder. Your work must be cleared for festival exhibition globally and in perpetuity.

Promotional Use: You grant Film Revolution the right to use stills, short clip fragments, and other relevant materials from your film for promotional, educational, and documentation purposes on the festival's official platforms, including its website, social media channels, and other promotional mediums.

Film Access: You allow the festival director and authorized personnel to download your film, ensuring streamlined offline evaluation, festival programming, and curation procedures.

IMDb Updates: While Film Revolution will endeavor to update awards and nominations on your IMDb pages, the festival is not responsible for generating new film pages if they don't already exist.

Professionalism: All participants, including filmmakers, crew, and attendees, are expected to uphold a high standard of professional and respectful behavior throughout the festival duration.

Feedback Mechanism: While Film Revolution values every submission, personalized feedback for each entry may not be provided unless specifically opted for through designated channels.

Non-Refundable Policy: Submission fees are final and non-refundable, irrespective of the outcome or status of your film within the festival.

Award Consideration: A single submission fee ensures your film is evaluated across all pertinent festival award categories, optimizing its potential recognition.

Multiple Film Entries: Film production teams or individuals may submit more than one project within the same festival year.

Discount Waivers: Discounted entry fees are available for student and disabled filmmakers. In rare cases, based on the festival's discretion, complete fee waivers may be granted.
Communication: Upon submission to Film Revolution, you agree to be added to our newsletter and mailing list for updates and information.

Selection Clarification: Submission to Film Revolution doesn't automatically grant the film an 'Official Selection' status.

Accurate Credits: You confirm that the credits list provided with your submission is thorough and accurate.

Festival Discretion: Film Revolution reserves the right to disqualify any film based on set criteria, ensuring the festival's integrity and reputation.

Language Policy: Films can be submitted in English without subtitles. For films in other languages, accompanying English subtitles are mandatory. Only English screenplays are accepted.

PRIVACY POLICY

Newsletter and Promotional Communications Opt-In:
By entering the competition, you automatically opt-in to receive marketing communications from partner film festivals and film awards competitions.

Opting Out: At any time, recipients can choose to opt-out of our electronic communications.

Data Protection: All personal information provided will be safeguarded per relevant data protection regulations.

Policy Updates: Film Revolution retains the right to adjust this Privacy Policy based on evolving needs and legal stipulations.

Contact: If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy Clause, please feel free to contact us at [email protected]

You agree to have read and accepted Film Revolution's rules, regulations, and code of conduct.

CLICK HERE TO COMPETE

$1,000 GRAND CASH PRIZE
IMDB ACCREDITATION
FOCUS ON SPEED
FASTER FEEDBACK
ROOTS IN MONTREAL
VIRTUAL GLOBAL TEAM
COMPETITIVE LAURELS
EMBRACING OF DEPTH
EXPERIMENTALISM
EVOLUTION AND CHANGE