Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What do I have to submit to be entered into the competition?
- A: 1) Completed online registration form
- A: 2) All appropriate releases and forms completed and sent with the DVD
- A: 3) Completed initial online application to Regent University
Q: What does redemptive mean?
A: A redemptive film can portray a carefully crafted protagonist facing a moral dilemma that leads to good or bad consequences affecting the protagonist and those around him or her. The protagonist might make a difficult, but ultimately good, decision, or the story may be a cautionary tale. Redemptive-themed documentaries are also accepted.
Q: Who maintains the rights to my film after I submit it?
A: Your rights are as stated in the rules and regulations, which must be read, signed and submitted with the film and other documents before the film can be judged. By signing and submitting this form and sending in your movie, you are agreeing to allow Regent University to use your likeness and video in any future marketing. You retain your creative rights and can submit to other competitions and festivals, pursuant to their particular rules and regulations.
Q: Can I submit a film to ReelDreams that I have already submitted to another competition?
A: Yes. If you have the legal rights and are the writer, director and producer of the film, you may submit the film. You will still need to supply all of the necessary paperwork to include assignment of rights, location releases and talent releases.
Q: Am I allowed to use copyrighted music?
A: No, unless you have a signed Assignment of Rights (PDF) form from the copyright holder or creator of the piece of music, which must be submitted with your film.
Q: Can I submit a film I made in the past?
A: Yes, as long as it meets the entry requirements and you can produce the appropriate paperwork as specified in the rules and regulations.
Q: Am I required to apply to Regent University to participate in the competition?
A: Yes. Because the grand prizewinner receives a Regent University Scholarship instead of a cash prize, all participants must begin the application process prior to the submission deadline, January 27, 2012, and must meet all eligibility requirements for admissions and financial aid.
Q: What is the best format to submit my film?
A: DVD, but no cover is necessary, and there should be no opening menu page. The DVD must be playable in a standard DVD player.
Q: Can my film be longer than 5 minutes?
A: No. The film, including end credits, must be between 3 and 5 minutes Total Run Time (TRT).
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No. Entrance to the ReelDreams Film Festival is free.
Q: Is there a limit on how much I can spend on my film?
A: No. There is no minimum or maximum amount one can spend. However, be mindful that you can make a great film on a low budget. Past winners have spent as little as $100 to tell a great story. The key to success is knowing how to tell a great story.
Q: If I am a finalist, how much advanced notice do I get to make travel arrangements?
A: Finalists will be announced on March 5, 2012. Travel arrangements for each finalist will be handled through Regent University. You may want to clear your calendar for March 30 – April 1, 2012, in the event you make it to the top 7 finalists.
Q: Is this program open to international participants?
A: At this point in time, this competition is only open to U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents residing in the United States of America.
Q: Is there a minimum age?
A: The entrant must meet all of Regent University's admissions requirements. If the entrant is a minor who meets the admissions requirements, he or she will need to have a document signed by a parent or legal guardian giving permission for the minor to participate in the competition.
