As part of the 50th anniversary celebration of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), the FDCP is proud to conduct  the Student Short Film Competition, a vibrant platform designed to showcase the  talents and creativity of young Filipino filmmakers. This competition invites students to share  their unique perspectives through film, highlighting the significance of the number "50" as interpreted through their experiences, culture, and imagination. It serves as a gateway for aspiring filmmakers to gain recognition and actively engage in a meaningful celebration of Filipino cinema’s rich heritage.

The competition encourages a broad spectrum  of interpretations of the theme "50," allowing participants to explore various genres and storytelling techniques. Whether the number "50" signifies a moment in history, a personal milestone, or a glimpse into the future, the competition seeks to gather diverse and thought-provoking entries that honor  this milestone year for MMFF and the Philippine film industry.

A. Theme

• The film should creatively interpret the theme "50" as the MMFF celebrates its 50th year. This theme can encompass  historical, emotional, or symbolic meanings related to "50" in any form (e.g., 50 years of culture, life in 50 years, etc.).

B. Eligibility:

1. Open to Filipino students currently enrolled from Junior High School to Undergraduate programs (up to Bachelor's level).

2. Participants must be between 15 and 23 years old.

3. Each filmmaker or group can only submit one entry. For group entries, all members must be enrolled students aged 15 to 23 years old, with a maximum of 3 members per team.

4. Entries should not have participated in any major film festivals (local or international) except those organized by schools.

C. Film Specifications:

1. Runtime: 3.5 to 5 minutes, including credits.

2. Genre: Open (narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, etc.).

3. Language: Primarily in Filipino or any Philippine language as appropriate, with hardcoded English subtitles.

4. Resolution: At least 1920x1080 (Full HD)

5. Accepted formats: MP4, MOV.

6. Music and Copyright: Any music that is royalty-free or properly licensed.

D. Submission Requirements:

1. Film Entry:

   Online: Upload your film to a private video sharing platform (e.g., Google Drive, Vimeo with or without a password) and provide the link in the submission form. Ensure that the link remains active until the end of the competition.

   Offline: Submit your film on a USB drive and send it to the FDCP office at 855 TM Kalaw, Ermita, Manila. The courier service must be prepaid by the participants. Pls ensure the package is  properly labeled with the  following information:
    
   Subject: MMFF x FDCP Student Short Film Competition Entry
   Your Name: 
   Film Title: 

2. Film Trailer: 30 to 45 seconds uploaded in Google Drive or included in USB for offline submission.

3. Film Poster: High resolution uploaded in Google Drive or included in USB for offline submission.

4. Director's Statement: Submit a brief explanation (maximum of 200 words) detailing how your film aligns with the theme "50."

5. Accomplished Entry Form: Complete the official MMFF Student Short Film Competition entry form at this link. MMFF x FDCP SSFC Application Form

6. Proof of Enrollment: A student ID or certificate of registration in Junior High School to Undergraduate programs.

7. Copyright Clearance: If applicable, provide legal documentation for any third-party material used in your  film (music, footage, etc.).

8. Parents/Guardians Consent Form: For participants aged 15-17 years old, a signed consent form from a  parent or guardian  is required to grant permission for competition participation. You can access the consent form here: MMFF x FDCP SSFC Consent Form

E. Deadline of Submission: Extended until November 10, 2024

F. Contact Details: [email protected]

G. Reminders:

1. Films must have a runtime of strictly 3.5-5 minutes only. 

2. Submitted films are considered final and cannot be edited.

3. No copyrighted music or materials are allowed unless written permission has been obtained. Original compositions or royalty-free tracks from platforms like Free Music Archive or YouTube Audio Library are encouraged. Entries that do not comply  with copyright requirements will be disqualified.

4. Films must be free of offensive or inappropriate content (e.g., excessive violence, hate speech) and should be  suitable for  a PG or G rating.

5. By submitting their films, filmmakers agree to grant FDCP and MMFF the right to screen their entries  for competition and promotional purposes.

1. Creativity and Originality (30%): Assessment of the film's innovative approach and unique concepts in presenting the theme "50," highlighting originality in ideas, visuals, and execution.

2. Storytelling (30%): Evaluation of the narrative structure, clarity of the message, and emotional resonance, considering how effectively the story engages the audience.

3. Technical Proficiency (20%): Analysis of production quality, including visuals, sound, and editing, ensuring that technical elements enhance the overall viewing experience.

4. Relevance to Theme (20%): Examination of how well the film connects to the theme "50," considering the depth and variety of interpretations, including cultural, historical, or personal perspectives.