Guidelines for Entry

The aim of MovieFest is to encourage the amateur and hobbyist movie makers of New Zealand, and to promote and showcase the talent New Zealand has to offer. We aim to promote the use of digital video editing tools and to promote the use of computers for digital video editing.

• Your movie must be made specifically for MovieFest 2009
• MovieFest 2009 must be your movie's first public screening
• Your movie must be no longer than 5 minutes including any titles and credits
• Your movie must contain or relate in some way to the MovieFest Topic for 2009: "Movie-making Documentary"

What is the deadline for MovieFest 2009?

The deadline for pre-registration to enter the competition is 5:00pm, 25 June 2009. Late entries are accepted but Movies and movie detail forms must be completed and in the post to the organisers by 5:00pm, 2nd October 2009.

Where and When is MovieFest held?

The National Finals Festival and Awards Ceremony will be held in Wellington. Other venues may be arranged for screenings, so let us know if you want one where you are.

Does MovieFest accept international entries?

No. Entrants must have a New Zealand residential address for correspondance.

Which genres of movies will MovieFest accept?

Generally all, including animations, documentaries and entirely computer generated movies.

Are there other restrictions?

MovieFest 2009 must be your movie's first public screening. This means that the movie must not have been screened at any other movie festival, on free to air or pay TV, in cinemas or any other public arena prior to MovieFest. This restriction does not include cast and crew screenings.

Can I re-edit a movie that has already screened so it fits the MovieFest guidelines?

No! We consider this a different version of the same movie, therefore if it has screened previously, it is not eligible for MovieFest.

Does MovieFest place restrictions on swearing or sexual/violent content?

MovieFest movies will be screened to family audiences and must not contain any swearing or sexual/violent content.

Does it cost anything to enter?

Yes, it costs NZ$30 ($25 if paid by 25 June 2009) (including GST). You can include a cheque or money order with your entry form. See the register page for details

Do I have to obtain copyright clearance for the music, performance or script?

YES! The moviemaker must own all copyright for or have written permission to use all content in the movie, including music, performance and script. Finalists must produce written documentation of performance releases. If you need a release form, let us know.

Can I use any piece of music as long as I have permission?

You can use most pieces of music granted you have received the necessary permissions. Well known/published music can become very expensive to use. You will need to have cleared rights to use the piece of music in "all media" and in "all locations". Try to use local music in your movie. It means that local musicians and composers can benefit from MovieFest, as well as every one else, and it is usually easier to organise. Don't limit the life of your movie by making hasty music choices or leaving this till the last minute. Music should be one of the first things you consider when planning your production.

If you're in a band, or a musician, and want to get some of your work out there in a Movie.. let us know!

Are all decisions made by the MovieFest Staff and Judges final?

We will not accept any correspondence into the final results supplied by the judges and may rescind any prize if any impropriety is subsequently found in the completion of any entry.

What is the MovieFest Topic (MFT) for 2009?

The MFT for 2009 was announced on 3rd August 2009 at the commencement of the competition. It is "Movie-making Documentary". Moviemakers are invited to interpret the MFT in any way they choose - we strongly encourage a creative interpretation of the phrase!

Why does my movie have to feature the MFT & how can I use it?

The MFT is meant to show that your movie was made specifically for the festival - as MovieFest is about encouraging production, not just exhibition.

What are the entry categories?

There are four entry categories: Primary & Intermediate Schools, Secondary School, Amateurs/Hobbyist and Open - (amateurs must not be employed in the video or film industry).

What is the maximum length for MovieFest movies?

5 minutes including titles and credits.

Is there a minimum length?

Yes, 3 minutes

Can I submit more than one movie for competition?

Yes - there is no restriction on number of entries providing an entry fee is paid for each movie and movie detail form completed.

What format do you accept for entry?

You must submit a Digital (Mini DV or Digital 8) copy of your movie to our postal address before 5pm on the 2nd October 2009.
You will be kept updated with the progress of your movie through the judging stages via email. Please ensure your contact details are updated at http://www.MovieFest.org.nz if they have changed since sending your entry form.