Frequently asked questions

How do I send my film to you?

You can send your film to info(at)festivalformula(dot)com or submit via our contact form.

Do you watch every film sent in?

We do as that's how we gauge if we are the best strategists for the film, and if there is potential traction to be had on the circuit.

Do you take everything on?

No - we are an honest company that prides itself on providing the best efficient services for a filmmaker. If we can’t see our services helping the film, we are not here to take advantage for money’s sake.

I’ve started submission already, does that mean I can’t get in touch?

Not at all! We are honest so if we think you have spent too much already it may factor in to our decision and what service we provide.

Can you guarantee selections for my film?

Unfortunately not. But no one can so this shouldn’t be a surprise. What we can guarantee is that we’ll spend your budget a lot better and aim for best suited festivals.

I finished filming 3 years ago but only finished editing this year. Is my film too old?

Your production year is when you have completed everything. So yes we can take a look at your project.

My film’s production date is from over 2 years ago. Will festivals accept it?

Unfortunately we cannot accept films that have a production year from over 2 years ago. The majority of festivals are wanting something fresh, so whilst some may take older productions, our service would not be financially conducive for older films.

Do you have relationships with festivals and programmers?

We do! It's how we know what festivals are after (and what they're not) and based on years of research and networking. Again no guarantees of a film being selected as the film does that, not us!

How long until I hear my film's feedback?

Please allow 2-7 working days as we get a lot of films sent our way. In the unlikely event we can't supply feedback to you after 7 days we will let you know.

You said 'no' to my film and I don't understand why?

We are not here to determine if a film is good or bad but to evaluate your film's potential on the circuit - that's where our area of expertise lie. However, if we feel you would benefit by not spending your budget on our services, we would prefer to say. We promote, and always value, being honest.

How many festivals will you find for my film?

We create our bespoke strategies to your budget and always look to prioritise suitability and quality over quantity. The number of festivals can vary between 30-90 depending on the assets within your film, the budget needed, and the duration of how long we handle your film.

Can you help with my logline and synopsis?

Of course, we can always cast an eye and advise if needed once you are our client. We're here to make your film as festival ready as it can be.

Do I need an EPK for my film?

It's handy but not a must. The majority of festivals don't request an EPK as the breakdown of these materials are part of your submission. Ideal materials that we utilise on the festival circuit are: stills, headshots, bios, trailer, poster. In terms of interviews from cast and crew this might be worthwhile for a feature film but isn't strictly necessary for the short film circuit. What you will find is larger festivals with a high press attendance request them. We do insist that you don't spend a fortune on a document like this as it can eat into a budget and not always be used.

What film file will I need to supply if you are handling my submissions?

Just one file - a ProRes 4444 or 422HQ which we will make exports off. Each festival has different tech requirements so rather than pester you we do the hardwork ourselves.

Will I need a DCP?

We recommend waiting until you get asked by a festival who needs a DCP. You may not need one for your circuit journey and this can save you money. Festivals that need a DCP may offer savings by using their services or partners.

Do you reach out to festivals after you have submitted?

No, we allow the film to stand on its own feet. In our previous experience reaching out doesn't help selection.

Do you write cover letters to help get selections?

We do not because they are not the deciding factor for your film being selected (which is on its merit and suitability to the programme). It’s also rare that they get read in a busy circuit landscape. Our line is they neither help nor hinder but they are not a good distraction to waste time with if you’re putting faith in that being the reason for selection.

Do you lobby for my film at festivals?

Not at all, because the film speaks for itself and if a festival wants to screen it then they won’t need a word in their ear from us about it. If we’re having to convince a festival to screen your film then we’re not submitting to the best suited festival. There can often be discussions about premiere for some festivals which comes later down the line if they are interested in screening the film. We are well known in the industry but a festival’s programming decision is their own, we put the right films in their direction to consider.

Is it true that there's a "perfect route" to travel the circuit with my film? I hear it's good to go for big then small, and sometimes small then big?

There's no one correct way of navigating the festival circuit as it will be very different to each film, and also want it needs to be achieve. As a company we always aim as high as we think the film can go taking into consideration what the filmmaker is wanting, and what level the film can sit at. We're not here to waste money at big festivals based on "what ifs" - we're here to spend your budget on better suited festivals to maximise potential of selection (and finding your audience).

I'm thinking of putting my film online, is that a bad idea?

The answer is a bit more complex - but inevitably it depends on the context. If you have a music video then most festivals don't mind that being online as that was its intended purpose. Animation festivals are less fussy about films being online, and not all festivals mind... But the majority do mind. So if you are thinking of putting your film online, or it already is, then it will restrict how many festivals you can submit your film to be considered. It's a good thing to bear in mind when looking to the festival circuit as you'll often find the ones you want to submit to are in the group that do mind.

I have a very particular question about my film which hasn't been answered here...

Then get in touch! We're always happy to talk through any situations with your film no matter how specific or vague they are.

Our festival hasn't seen any submissions from you - why's that?

It could be a number of reasons; lack of funds for the filmmaker, not suited for your audience, premiere stipulations... Best thing to do is get in touch and ask!

You seem to know your stuff, we'd love to have you chat to our filmmakers. Do you do that kind of thing?

We sure do! Head to our Festivals section to find out more about where we've been, what we do, and how we can be bespoke to what you're after.

I represent a film school/film course/film group. Do you do guest lectures?

Yes! We love to educate! Get in touch with us and we can chat further.

How much does it cost to have you as a guest lecturer?

We don't have a fixed rate as we appreciate everyone has a different budget. If you wish to have us physically attend your school we would appreciate having travel, and if necessary accommodation, covered. We are also happy to deliver a talk via video call.

We are looking for sponsors, would you happen to be interested?

We can't make any promises but we're always happy to chat further.