{"id":71,"date":"2024-01-28T21:30:57","date_gmt":"2024-01-29T04:30:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/film-challenge-rules\/"},"modified":"2026-03-16T19:05:59","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T02:05:59","slug":"film-challenge-rules","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/film-challenge-rules\/","title":{"rendered":"OIF Film Challenge Rules"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>.kb-row-layout-id1148_93ef6c-02 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id1148_93ef6c-02 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id1148_93ef6c-02 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id1148_93ef6c-02 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_93ef6c-02 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_93ef6c-02 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id1148_93ef6c-02 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column1148_40606d-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column1148_40606d-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column1148_40606d-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column1148_40606d-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column1148_40606d-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column1148_40606d-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column1148_40606d-e6{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column1148_40606d-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column1148_40606d-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column1148_40606d-e6\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-column.kb-section-dir-horizontal > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-blocks-info-box-link-wrap{max-width:unset;}.kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-blocks-info-box-link-wrap{border-top:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-right:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-bottom:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-left:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-top-left-radius:30px;border-top-right-radius:30px;border-bottom-right-radius:30px;border-bottom-left-radius:30px;background:#ffffff;padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);}.kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kadence-info-box-icon-container .kt-info-svg-icon, .kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-info-svg-icon-flip, .kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-blocks-info-box-number{font-size:50px;}.kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-blocks-info-box-media{color:#d81515;background:var(--global-palette9, #ffffff);border-color:var(--global-palette9, #ffffff);border-radius:200px;overflow:hidden;border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;padding-top:20px;padding-right:20px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:20px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:20px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;}.kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-blocks-info-box-media .kadence-info-box-image-intrisic img{border-radius:200px;}.kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-infobox-textcontent h2.kt-blocks-info-box-title{padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;margin-top:5px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;}.kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-blocks-info-box-learnmore{background:transparent;border-width:0px 0px 0px 0px;padding-top:4px;padding-right:8px;padding-bottom:4px;padding-left:8px;margin-top:10px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-blocks-info-box-link-wrap{border-top:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-right:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-bottom:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-left:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58 .kt-blocks-info-box-link-wrap{border-top:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-right:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-bottom:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);border-left:5px solid var(--global-palette7, #eeeeee);}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-infobox kt-info-box1148_e4ad95-58\"><div class=\"kt-blocks-info-box-link-wrap kt-blocks-info-box-media-align-left kt-info-halign-left\"><div class=\"kt-blocks-info-box-media-container\"><div class=\"kt-blocks-info-box-media kt-info-media-animate-none\"><div class=\"kadence-info-box-icon-container kt-info-icon-animate-none\"><div class=\"kadence-info-box-icon-inner-container\"><span class=\"kb-svg-icon-wrap kb-svg-icon-fe_alertTriangle kt-info-svg-icon\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"  fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"  aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M10.29 3.86L1.82 18a2 2 0 0 0 1.71 3h16.94a2 2 0 0 0 1.71-3L13.71 3.86a2 2 0 0 0-3.42 0z\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"9\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"13\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"17\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"kt-infobox-textcontent\"><p class=\"kt-blocks-info-box-text\"><strong>Important: <\/strong>These Rules are supplemental to any posted Challenge-specific ones, which may be found on the respective Challenge web page.<br><strong><br>Follow ALL posted Guidelines to qualify your entry for Theatrical screening and\/or receiving awards!<\/strong><br>The following is a legally binding agreement between the submitter (you), the management of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Organization of Independent Filmmakers<\/a><\/strong>, a film community, and <a href=\"https:\/\/sunbeltproductions.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sunbelt Productions, LLC<\/a>, a multi-media &amp; events production\/management company; hereafter on this page, collectively referred to as &#8220;OIF&#8221;. Where a specific role is not specified or addressed in a rule below, it shall apply to the filmmaker.<br><em>By submitting content to OIF, in consideration for a chance at a theatrical screening of final film by OIF or any of its subsidiaries, affiliates, or partners, &nbsp;you&nbsp;<\/em>acknowledge and agree to<em>&nbsp;<\/em>all of the following Challenge Terms and Conditions.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59\"]{text-align:center;font-style:normal;text-transform:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h2 class=\"kt-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_fdea6c-59\">Challenge Terms and Conditions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For Challenge entry to be considered, the entrant must be an active member in good standing of the OIF community.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You confirm you are the authorized owner or agent for the production being submitted and hereby authorize OIF to screen your film in part, or in its entirety, to the public.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>All productions are independent. Under no circumstance shall you state or imply that you are an employee, contractor, or a representative of or for OIF.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You certify that the script is based on an original story where you or a member of your production team is the creator of same story.&nbsp; No adaptations. No \u201cFan\u201d films.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You will inform the admins  promptly if you are unable to complete your film project prior to the deadline.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You have obtained all necessary releases for the final submitted production, including pertinent talent and location releases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>*Film project  must be submitted by, and rules must be accepted by, a single real person.  This person must be the <strong>filmmaker<\/strong> (writer, producer, or director).  Submitter will be named as the &#8220;filmmaker&#8221; by OIF.  No pseudonyms or company names allowed for submitters.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Please practice safe filming.&nbsp; No real weapons to be present on any set.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Film entries not received by the deadline will not be eligible for awards. However; at the producers&#8217; sole discretion, may still be screened.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> *Use the respective &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/film-cards\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">OIF cards<\/a>&#8221; at the beginning of your film to identify the production as a Challenge entry as well as to indicate your self-rating. Please choose a rating in line with current industry practices.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maximum running time limitation of the film submission for an <strong>OIF Short Film Challenge<\/strong> is 9 minutes and 5 seconds, unless otherwise posted on the respective Challenge material.&nbsp; Total running time includes credits and required OIF slate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rating Limits:<\/strong> Please use good taste. Keep content to \u201cPG-13\u201d use swear words sparingly and where relevant to the film\u2019s story. No nudity.&nbsp; No more than 3 \u201cF* bombs\u201d! We normally have a general audience in the theater, keep it so the whole family can enjoy the screening.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>*Unless otherwise posted on the specific Challenge page, films should be encoded in h.264, .mov or .mp4 format, 1920p x 1080p Full HD resolution (2K, 1.78:1 aka 16:9). Do not submit any other resolution for the screening. For other perspectives, you may use \u201cblack bars\u201d (letter-boxing).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>*When submitting films, the&nbsp;file names must match the film title&nbsp;exactly (all lowercase), using underscores to indicate spaces. Shorter names preferred.<br>Example: if title is \u201cMy Dog Is Great\u201d, film file name should be \u201cmy_dog_is_great.mp4\u201d.&nbsp;<br>DO NOT&nbsp;use any other file-naming sequence such as \u201cMy dog is great version 2.1\u201d or \u201cfilmmaker-Darth-Thomas-My Dog Is Great (Final).mov\u201d, &#8220;MDIG.mp4&#8221;, or \u201coif-film-24-mdig-series-b.mp4\u201d.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Total stock footage or AI-generated content used must not exceed 15 seconds of total runtime.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spoken word (synchronized dialogue) films must be presented in the English Language unless English Language text captions are used.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Only filmmakers are authorized to nominate candidates for OIF Awards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Award eligibility for directors and writers is limited to one credited entry per Challenge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OIF may show or post images, photos or trailers of your film, up to 90 seconds, via any distribution channel(s) for marketing and promotional purposes.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>During production, abide by all local laws and ordinances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>* Failure to provide the film according to the technical Challenge rules and specifications will cause a one, or more, point deduction to the offending award categories for each infraction (adherence to genre, missing required slates, wrong naming convention, sound issues, wrong format provided, or other technical issues).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once a film has been submitted, it cannot be withdrawn from screening.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You hereby indemnify OIF, its staff, agents, and partners from any harm while participating in an OIF-sponsored event.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your OIF film may&nbsp;<strong>NOT<\/strong>&nbsp;be shown elsewhere, prior to the OIF screening date for the Challenge you entered.&nbsp; Doing so will result in immediate disqualification and permanent ban from any OIF communities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Award nominations for actors as a lead and\/or supporting role is limited to a total of three (3) films per Challenge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Producers, Writers and Directors are limited to one such role in a one film per Challenge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are allowed to make minor changes to your script during production, as long as the storyline is not materially changed and all the guidelines are followed, your film submission will likely still qualify.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The script and final film must adhere to the genre being submitted for.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If your script was selected and your film project follows the OIF Film Challenge Rules, you have a<strong>&nbsp;secured screening spot at the event. Your cast and crew are eligible for awards as long as the final film qualifies and is submitted by the deadline.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The submitter of the film acknowledges their production team has followed the OIF Film Challenge Rules and has acknowledged the Challenge Guidelines. Please communicate these rules with your crew and talent to avoid jeopardizing your submission.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>*Hard-limit film audio levels to -3db.&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>NO PEAKING<\/strong> to \u201czero\u201d db or above&nbsp; (In general, keep your audio output to -24&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/simpledcp.com\/sound-levels-in-cinema\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LUFS<\/a>).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additional Terms and Conditions may apply and will be posted on the dedicated Challenge web page, or on the submission form itself. Also see Film Spec section below.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><em>*OIF will deduct respective technical points from award scores  for  the  director, writer, and\/or editor for violations of rules marked with an asterisk.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id1148_8c9d23-67 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id1148_8c9d23-67 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id1148_8c9d23-67 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id1148_8c9d23-67 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_8c9d23-67 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_8c9d23-67 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id1148_8c9d23-67 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column1148_82694a-09 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column1148_82694a-09 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column1148_82694a-09 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column1148_82694a-09 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column1148_82694a-09 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column1148_82694a-09 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column1148_82694a-09{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column1148_82694a-09 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column1148_82694a-09 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column1148_82694a-09\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id1148_fe6aff-a5 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id1148_fe6aff-a5 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id1148_fe6aff-a5 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id1148_fe6aff-a5 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_fe6aff-a5 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_fe6aff-a5 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id1148_fe6aff-a5 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column1148_16f16c-ae\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4\"]{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h4 class=\"kt-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_38f556-e4\"><strong>Film Specs<\/strong> (READ CAREFULLY AND Be sure to Provide these to your editor):&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Final Video Format:<\/strong>&nbsp; H.264 .mp4 format, 16:9 aspect ratio (1920x1080p) preferred. If using other aspect ratios, please letterbox the frames or they may be letterboxed on the screen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your film contains captions, be sure to show them at least at a distance equal to 10% of the frame height from the bottom so as not to be potentially cut-off due to theater screen formats.<br>OIF  will export all films in default <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cinematiq.com\/posts\/things-to-consider-before-making-a-dcp-aspect-ratio-frame-size\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2K FLAT DCP<\/a> format, 24 fps, stereo unless otherwise posted. This is the normal theatrical format required by most commercial theaters today.<br>Submitting a film in other formats may cause you to receive an award penalty for each infraction (see rules). For more info on DCP standards, see box below.<br><\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-column.kb-section-dir-horizontal > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de{max-width:960px;}.wp-block-kadence-column.kb-section-dir-horizontal > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de .kt-blocks-info-box-link-wrap{max-width:unset;}.kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de .kt-blocks-info-box-link-wrap{max-width:960px;padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);}.kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de .kadence-info-box-icon-container .kt-info-svg-icon, .kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de .kt-info-svg-icon-flip, .kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de .kt-blocks-info-box-number{font-size:50px;}.kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de .kt-blocks-info-box-media{border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;padding-top:10px;padding-right:10px;padding-bottom:10px;padding-left:10px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:15px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:15px;}.kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de .kt-infobox-textcontent h2.kt-blocks-info-box-title{font-size:var(--global-kb-font-size-md, 1.25rem);text-transform:none;}.wp-block-kadence-infobox.kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de .kt-blocks-info-box-text{font-size:var(--global-kb-font-size-sm, 0.9rem);}.kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de .kt-blocks-info-box-learnmore{background:transparent;border-width:0px 0px 0px 0px;padding-top:4px;padding-right:8px;padding-bottom:4px;padding-left:8px;margin-top:10px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-infobox kt-info-box1148_c254ce-de\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-info-box-link-wrap info-box-link kt-blocks-info-box-media-align-left kt-info-halign-center\"><div class=\"kt-infobox-textcontent\"><h2 class=\"kt-blocks-info-box-title\"><strong>Standard DCP Pixel Array Sizes and Frame Rates<\/strong><\/h2><p class=\"kt-blocks-info-box-text\">2K Scope (2.39:1) Resolution: 2048&#215;858 FPS:24\/1 or 48\/1<br><strong>2K Flat (1.85:1) Resolution: 1998&#215;1080 FPS:24\/1 or 48\/1  (24fps for OIF)<\/strong><br>2K Full (1.90:1) Resolution: 2048&#215;1080 FPS:24\/1 or 48\/1<br>4K Scope (2.39:1) Resolution: 4096&#215;1716 FPS:24\/1<br>4K Flat (1.85:1) Resolution: 3996&#215;2160 FPS:24\/1<br>4K Full (1.90:1) Resolution: 4096&#215;2160 FPS:24\/1<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53\"]{font-size:var(--global-kb-font-size-md, 1.25rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_1ee457-53\"><strong>Suggested Audio Settings:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Audio format: AAC 48Khz stereo at 320kbps&nbsp;<br>Hard-limit Audio levels to -3db.&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>NO PEAKING<\/strong> to \u201czero\u201d db or above&nbsp; (In general, keep your audio output to -24&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/simpledcp.com\/sound-levels-in-cinema\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LUFS<\/a>)<br>Normalize dialogue levels to about -6db. &nbsp;Bit rate: 15 Mbps target for a 1080FHD file.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you do not understand these terms or conditions, this is a friendly group, please ask someone within the group or one of the admins for an explanation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Failure to agree to and abide by all of the above guidelines may disqualify your entry.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id1148_401578-dd{margin-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kb-row-layout-id1148_401578-dd > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id1148_401578-dd > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id1148_401578-dd > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id1148_401578-dd > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_401578-dd > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_401578-dd > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id1148_401578-dd alignnone has-theme-palette9-background-color kt-row-has-bg wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{box-shadow:0px 0px 14px 0px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2);border-top:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);}.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:2px;border-top-right-radius:2px;border-bottom-right-radius:2px;border-bottom-left-radius:2px;}.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:1px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column1148_43f2b1-03\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc\"]{font-size:var(--global-kb-font-size-sm, 0.9rem);font-style:normal;font-family:var( --global-heading-font-family, inherit );}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h2 class=\"kt-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc wp-block-kadence-advancedheading has-theme-palette-3-color has-text-color\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1148_511e7c-bc\">Please visit the submission page at&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/submissions\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"1197\">https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/submissions\/<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong>to send us the following:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your&nbsp;<strong>Film for Challenge&nbsp;<\/strong>entry, the F<strong>ilm Poster, Film Trailer, Filmmaker Bio.   <\/strong><br>The Poster is required for a Challenge, a Trailer is <strong>NOT<\/strong>  required  for short films.  A Filmmaker Bio may be stored in our database to be used for possible publication (on the site and\/or the OIF Gazette, or other media).<strong><br><\/strong>Additional resources may be available to you on that page as well. Forms become available as scheduled to appear.<br><br><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb{border-top:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);border-right:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);border-bottom:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);border-left:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);}.kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb{border-top:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);border-right:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);border-bottom:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);border-left:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb{border-top:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);border-right:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);border-bottom:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);border-left:1px solid var(--global-palette7, #EDF2F7);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id1148_e261fc-fb alignnone has-theme-palette8-background-color kt-row-has-bg wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column1148_775984-1d > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column1148_775984-1d > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column1148_775984-1d > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column1148_775984-1d > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column1148_775984-1d > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column1148_775984-1d > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column1148_775984-1d{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column1148_775984-1d > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column1148_775984-1d > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column1148_775984-1d\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Script writing <strong>Tips<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>REWRITE <\/strong>\u2013 leave the script for a couple of days then come back to read it with a fresh mind, you have time, don\u2019t rush or send the first draft.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>GET FEEDBACK<\/strong>&nbsp; \u2013 Let someone else advise you on their take of your script.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get to the point fast, answer the question \u201cwhat are we following here\u201d as soon as you can so your script has a good pace, keep the audience engaged.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid \u201cfluff\u201d that may disenchant the audience and use action for greater engagement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submit an engaging original. Include a memorable story with scenes and characters to thrill the audience at the premiere.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id1148_8f40f3-55 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id1148_8f40f3-55 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id1148_8f40f3-55 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id1148_8f40f3-55 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_8f40f3-55 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id1148_8f40f3-55 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id1148_8f40f3-55 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column1148_7cdc5d-f8\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Additional Considerations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do not wait until the last minute to submit your film project. In the past several films were not screened nor qualified for awards because of unforeseen events occurring near submission deadlines. Work with your editor to get the film in on time.  We can work with you if your entry has issues, but only if we have the time to do so prior  to the deadline. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For any Challenges or related events where submissions over 20 minutes in length are allowed, it is strongly recommended that a trailer be submitted. A trailer is not required for shorter films, however, you are free to post one in your local group\u2019s Facebook page.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You now have the option of having your film shown on&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/flixet.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Flixet.com<\/a>, currently building up a large library of short films, an initiative to distribute films mostly from within the OIF library and increase exposure to the world.&nbsp; The site will be launched when its library has reached a suitable size.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>As long as you follow the guidelines and submit your complete film by the deadline, your screening spot is basically secured and your cast\/crew will be eligible to compete for awards. See full guidelines below, here are the top 5: Remember \u201c<strong>CHECK\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>C<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 You MUST post at least one&nbsp;<strong>Casting Call<\/strong>&nbsp;in the OIF group.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>H<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 All posts must be related to your film and must contain the following&nbsp;<strong>Hashtag<\/strong>&nbsp;#OIF{Challenge name}Challenge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>E<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 In the complete film, you must add this&nbsp;<strong>End Credit<\/strong>&nbsp;without any modifications \u201c<strong>This Film was Created for an OIF Film Challenge<\/strong>.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>C<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Film to entertain the diverse&nbsp;<strong>Crowd<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;<strong>Keep it PG-13, No nudity<\/strong>&nbsp;(gore is ok) we will have all ages in the audience, including kids.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>K<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;<strong>Kick off<\/strong>&nbsp;the film submission process closer to the film submission deadline by assembling the required, Awards Nominees, Poster, and optionally the Bio. <br>Submission forms are located online at: <a href=\"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/submissions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/submissions\/<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:34px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><em>These rules and guidelines were last updated on May 16, 2025.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Challenge Terms and Conditions *OIF will deduct respective technical points from award scores for the director, writer, and\/or editor for violations of rules marked with an asterisk. Film Specs (READ CAREFULLY AND Be sure to Provide these to your editor):&nbsp; Final Video Format:&nbsp; H.264 .mp4 format, 16:9 aspect ratio (1920x1080p) preferred. If using other aspect&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":72,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"default","_kad_post_layout":"default","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"show","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-71","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"taxonomy_info":[],"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/01\/Festival-Rules-Custom-1024x576.png",1024,576,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"webmaster@usi","author_link":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/author\/webmasterusi\/"},"comment_info":0,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/71","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=71"}],"version-history":[{"count":49,"href":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/71\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":518,"href":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/71\/revisions\/518"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/72"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/independentfilmmakers.org\/la\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=71"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}