Submission Process

I have submitted a film, now what?

The TFN FanFilm's staff will take a look at the link provided. Because we are busy working on the site, if the link is not correct, we do not have time to search your site for the movie. Also, idrive and driveway websites cannot be used because we cannot get in them. If you do not provide a link to your footage, we will not review it.

Who judges the films?

Jeff is the initial contact. Kurt and John also have access to the submissions but most likely Jeff will be doing the reviewing. The TFN FanFilms staff then makes a decision to host, reject, or ask for more information.

When can I submit my film?

We only accept films that are within two months of completion. In addition, we only review films that have included a significant portion of completed footage, or have offered a way to provide completed footage. A simple trailer is not enough to judge your film by. We do not review scripts or ideas.

What are the films judged on?

Story - Does the story actually fit the Star Wars universe? Is the story coherent and thought out? Is the story unique or have we seen this type of film in another fan film?

Characters - Do the actors fit the parts they are playing? Can the audience accept the person for who they are supposed to be? Can the actors even act?

Composition - Do the director and director of photography understand basic filming techniques? Do they use the rule of thirds? Do they use lighting correctly?

Location - Do the backgrounds look correct? Are the backgrounds fitting for the film? Are all mundane objects removed from all shots?

Technical - Do the effects detract or enhance the film? Have they made simple mistakes that have been covered in tutorials? Are the effects up to parwith most current films?

Choreography - Do the fights look natural? Do the fighters look somewhat skilled at what they are doing?

Audio - Is the audio mixed correctly? Does the audio fit the video and the effects?

Screen Footage - Unless your film is a documentary and/or has the proper clearances, DO NOT submit a film with footage you do not own the rights to use. If your film uses unlicensed screen-used footage from ANY film it will be rejected.

Why are the standards so high?

Several reasons. TFN FanFilms is recognized as a leader in the fan community. It is expected that TFN will only host the very best in fan films. Also, hosting does cost a lot of money so we much select those films that people will want to view over and over. As a distributor, we want our name on people's minds when they think of fan films. We are by far the most active site in accepting films so we get a lot of films to consider. We have to narrow them down and the only way to do it is by high standards. We want to impress other film web sites with the creativity and resourcefulness of the Star Wars Fan Film makers.

What format should I submit the film in?

Quicktime, preferably. If not that, MPEG or AVI. Yes, you can use DIVX to submit to us, as we do have PC's to view submissions with, but the DIVX codec is unreliable and we would prefer you not submit in that format. However, the film MUST become a Quicktime .MOV (with Sorenson codec) for release. We have worked with Sorenson MOV the most and found it to work well on Macintosh and PC. We are capable of compressing films we host to this format if they are sent to us uncompressed.

Should I consider doing a VHS or DVD copy?

Definitely, YES. If you work on your film at full resolution and 29.97 FPS (NTSC) or 25 FPS (PAL) then you can export it to the media. TFN FanFilms is often asked to do conventions and with a VHS or DVD copy, we can show your film to a large audience. We already are working on one convention tape and will be working on a second very soon.

I haven't gotten a response, what should I do?

We generally attempt to review and reply within 2 weeks, but that is not always possible. In addition, submissions often come through with incorrect e-mail addresses so check your address before you submit. If more than a month has passed, you should resubmit, not before.

What are my options if you reject my film?

There are a couple of web sites that may offer to host it. Check our forum and the FanFilms Forum. Don't be afraid to ask around. We encourage other sites to host as well so more film makers can find a home for their films.

Why did you choose to host that film?

Not everyone will agree on what is a good film and what is not. We choose films because we think they are good in several fields. Very rarely will a film have all the elements so everyone can agree that it is a great fan film.

What is the hosting agreement?

By submitting, being accepted, and subsequently hosted at TFN FanFilms you are agreeing to give to TFN FanFilms sole rights to host and present your film. We rarely have issue with you presenting your film yourself, but prefer to be contacted before it is presented from other venues. We have no issue with your film being hosted at iFilms in addition to TFN FanFilms, but again, we would like notice so we can put up a news item.

What advice do you have to getting my film on TFN FanFilms?

1. Work within your limits. If you do not know how to bluescreen correctly, do not try to make a film that requires you to learn on the spot. Do not try to make an epic of a film unless you have worked on a smaller film first. Work in steps.

2. Do not rehash the same plot as other films. We have a lot of Jedi vs. Sith films. Unless you can match DUALITY, or A QUESTION OF FAITH in choreography or LEGACY OF THE JEDI or THE FORMULA with acting, your chances of being accepted are very low.

3. Find people to fit the parts. Fan films require a suspension of believe but do not stretch it. A teenage Jedi Master is just not believable. Clay Kronke from THE NEW WORLD and Joe Tesora from LEGACY OF THE JEDI are good younger Jedi Masters that pull it off.

4. Costumes are going to be judged. All members of TFN FanFilms are also Star Wars costumers. If you are going to use canon characters such as Darth Vader or Boba Fett, make sure they look correct. If you are creating a new character, make sure the costume fits in the Star Wars universe. Remember that suspension of disbelief only goes so far.