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 will be held March 13th, 14th, and 15th of 2009. It will continue annually at approximately the same time of the year.
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. The only division of films will be that of youth filmmakers from adult filmmakers.
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. Also, the highest rated ten youth submissions 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. Also, you will 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 every selection separates us from other festivals.
Filmmakers who are not chosen to have their work screened will also receive itineraries for the festival’s events, a 25% discount for all events and merchandise, 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 tickets package with 10 film screening tickets, 4 opening night party tickets, and 4 awards ceremony tickets. Your congratulatory package will also include an official Screenfest t-shirt, poster, and press release materials.
When will tickets be available?
Advanced tickets will be available online after the schedule of selections and show times is announced on February 1, 2009. 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 at the River Terrace Hotel and Convention Center 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 it be family friendly?
Absolutely! As well as our youth theater of films submitted by filmmakers 17 and under, there will be booths, exhibits, and events geared toward families and fun for all ages.
Will there be any other events besides movie screenings?
Screenfest is designed to be a true festival, rather than just movie screenings. The atmosphere will be like a street fair, combining vendor booths ranging from web design to a Hollywood-themed old time photo booth. We will also have games, parties, an awards ceremony, workshops, and possibly even a celebrity question and answer session!
How do you chose which movies will be screened at the festival?
See our judging criteria page.
How can I help?
See our sponsorship page or volunteer application.
Do you have any special events for students?
High school students (and even really ambitious elementary or middle school students) are encouraged to submit films for the youth category. At the festival, students are offered a 10% discount for all events and merchandise with a valid student ID.
We are also 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.
