Film festival seeks entries

SANDPOINT — Filmmakers rejoice — the next iteration of Sandpoint Film Festival is opening for business.

Festival runners are now accepting submissions for the November event. As with previous years, films with an approximate G, PG or PG-13 level of content and a runtime of 20 minutes or less will be considered for submission.

To submit a film, simply burn it onto DVD and mail it to Sandpoint Film Festival, P.O. Box 304, Sandpoint, ID, 83864. Submissions require a nonrefundable $10 application fee before Sept. 1 and a $15 application fee before Sept. 15. The festival won’t be accepting any film submissions after that date, so those seeking to craft something new in time for competition should get their cameras fired up.

When submitting a film, the filmmaker should include his or her name, film title and phone number on the DVD itself.

Keep in mind that the DVD won’t be returned. In addition, the individual should include the following information on a separate sheet of paper: his or her name, address, email address, phone number, the film title, the film length, and writer and director credits. Checks with the submission fee should be made out to Sandpoint Films, the nonprofit organizing the event. Applicants can drop off posters or other promotional materials for the event and choose whether to show their movie in or out of competition. For a shot at the $300 first prize, $200 second prize or $100 third prize, however, a film needs to be in competition. All filmmakers will receive two free tickets to the viewing block featuring their movie.  

Festival officials will announce the full lineup by Oct. 1. It all comes to a head on Nov. 3 at the day-long festival. In previous years, the festival has attracting submissions ranging from almost every genre imaginable. Documentaries, comedies, crime thrillers, David Lynch-style horror and character dramas made by filmmakers across all levels of experience are just a few examples. Every years’ winners show a different sense of style. Attend the festival at the Little Panida Theater on Nov. 3 or enter a film to find out for yourself.

Information: 290-0597