What is Screenfest?
Screenfest is an independent film festival held in Gatlinburg, TN.  Screenfest will focus on promoting the artists and filmmakers and bringing their craft to an audience of local residents and tourists in East Tennessee.
 
When is it?
The first Screenfest Film Festival was held March 13th-15th, 2009.  It will continue annually at approximately the same time of the year.  The 2010 festival is scheduled March 26th-28th.
 
Why are the dates announced so far in advance?
We wanted to ensure that filmmakers had substantial time to work on their submissions, and that film enthusiasts could plan to attend. 
 
What categories are there?
We accept any genre of filmmaking including documentary and short films.  All films, regardless of genre will be judged by the same standards.  Therefore, different types of films will be in competition with each other at the festival, and they will not be divided into prizes for each category. 
 
Will all submissions be screened?
All submissions will be viewed and judged by an evaluating panel.  The highest rated ten films will be screened at the festival.
 
What happens if my film is not chosen?
If your film is not chosen to be screened at the festival, you will receive a certificate announcing that your film was an Official Entry at the Screenfest Film Festival.  If you wish, you may receive feedback from the judges outlining the positive aspects of your film along with any points the judges think need revision.  Screenfest strives to be both innovative and helpful to the independent filmmaker, and we believe that offering feedback for selections that request it separates us from other festivals.

Filmmakers who are not chosen to have their work screened will also receive itineraries for the festival’s events and future festival news.
 
What happens if my film is chosen?
If your film is chosen, you will be notified by mail.  We will send you a certificate announcing that your film is an Official Selection at the Screenfest Film Festival.  In addition to the announcement of your film being chosen, you will receive festival materials such as a schedule of screenings, itinerary, and a VIP access pass.  Your congratulatory package will also include judges’ feedback.
 
When will tickets be available?
Advanced tickets will be available online after the schedule of selections and show times are announced.  Tickets will also be available at our box office during the festival.
 
Will the movies be shown at a movie theater in Gatlinburg?
Actually there are no movie theaters in Gatlinburg, which makes Screenfest so unique to the area.  Screening rooms will be designed for the festival in a convention setting offering ample space and seating for the event along with a chance to allow visitors and residents of Gatlinburg to enjoy going to the movies.
 
Why did you choose Gatlinburg to have a film festival?
We believe Gatlinburg is an ideal place to hold a film festival.  The city offers an intimate atmosphere with much of its attractions within walking distance of area hotels.  Screenfest is a Hollywood Glamour-themed event, and many attractions nearby coincide with the theme such as the Hard Rock Café, Hollywood Wax Museum, and Hollywood Star Cars.  Gatlinburg pulls approximately 10 million visitors per year, which increases the likelihood for passersby to join in on the festivities.  Also, over 25 colleges and universities are in the region presenting students an opportunity to get involved.  The possibilities in Gatlinburg are limitless.
 
Will there be any other events besides movie screenings?
Screenfest is designed to be an excellent network of filmmakers and actors from all over the country.  We will have seminars, guest speakers, director question and answer sessions, and new idea development assemblies, and parties designed to let everyone mingle and learn from each other. 
 
How do you chose which movies will be screened at the festival?
 
The judges base the movie ratings on ten factors:  story, script flow, cinematography/use of camera, lighting, acting, music, sound quality/effects, originality, aesthetics, and editing style 
 
How can I help?
See our sponsorship page or volunteer application.
 
Do you have any special events for students?
We are looking for volunteers to help with all aspects of the festival, and these positions are perfect for students.  We will offer volunteers a certificate of participation and a letter of recommendation after the event.  These documents are designed for use with a resume or college application.