Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t like online submissions. Can I submit via paper?
No. We can’t accept submissions that do not go through FilmFreeway. It’s just too difficult to keep track of films that aren’t entered into an electronic system. It’s also much easier to address any arising issues when there’s an electronic record of a submission.
I am having problems submitting via FilmFreeway, whom should I contact?
Please contact FilmFreeway on support@filmfreeway.com
Do you accept alternative online screeners? Can I send an outside link?
Yes. You may submit Vimeo links with passwords to info@cayfilm.com. Or you can include the link and password in the cover section of your FilmFreeway application. IMPORTANT: If you do choose to send us a Vimeo screener then you still need to submit your submission information and payment through FilmFreeway.
How long can short films be?
We consider a short film anything 40 minutes or under.
Do you accept short animation and documentary submissions?
Yes, we have an animation and documentary short section.
Do you accept narrative and/or feature length submissions?
Yes, we do.
Can I submit a rough cut and if so, can I submit the final cut later?
Our programmers will consider rough cuts, and will judge the film accordingly. No film will be rejected on the basis of being incomplete. However, due to the large volume of titles we receive, we cannot guarantee that programmers will be able to watch the completed film at a later date. Please consider this before submitting the rough cut and aim to have your final cut ready and submitted by our LATE deadline.
I submitted last year, can I submit the same film this year?
We will not consider previously submitted work unless it has been considerably re-edited or re-shot. If you are unsure, it probably means it hasn’t been changed enough. If we have already viewed your film as a rough cut last year, we usually will not consider it for the following year.
My film was broadcast on television and/ online. Is it still eligible?
No. Any films that have screened on television anywhere in the world or online are ineligible for submission.
Do you have a preference for local films or films with local connections?
We strive to be a strong advocate of local talent and filmmakers. We are proud of Cayman and the amazing work that is being developed by local film artists. However, being from Cayman does not guarantee your film acceptance and the work must be able to stand on its own. We have a dedicated section to featuring local talent please see submission guidelines.
How are films scored?
Each film is watched by at least 2 programmers, the scores are averaged for a final score. The scores are used to help narrow down the large number of submissions to create a shortlist of films to make final selections from.
Are films selected based on scores?
No. When it comes to final selections, films are selected based on the overall filmmaking, variety, and what will make the strongest and most interesting lineup. When it comes to selecting films, it’s a film’s content and quality that matter, not it’s score.
Can I see my scores?
Due to the number of submissions received and technical limitations, it’s not possible for us to share scores at this time.
Who makes the final selections?
The final selections are made by the Festival Director and the Board of Advisors.
I can’t afford the submission fee. Do you grant fee waivers?
No. Not at this time. CayFilm relies on submission fees to help deliver on our many programming initiatives. To ensure best fee option, please apply by our early bird deadline.
