Screener

Definition

A screener is a preliminary version of a film that is sent out to industry professionals, such as festival programmers, distributors, and critics, for evaluation before its official release. Screeners play a crucial role in the film submission process at festivals, allowing decision-makers to assess the film's quality, content, and overall suitability for programming. They can be in various formats, including DVD, Blu-ray, or digital files, and are typically accompanied by promotional materials.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Screeners are often sent to festival programmers several months before the festival to give them enough time to review submissions.
2. Digital screeners have become increasingly popular due to their ease of distribution and accessibility for reviewers.
3. Screeners may have specific watermarks or restrictions to prevent unauthorized sharing or piracy.
4. Many festivals require filmmakers to submit screeners as part of their application process for consideration.
5. The quality of the screener can impact a programmer's first impression of a film and influence their decision on whether to include it in the festival lineup.

Review Questions

• What is the role of screeners in the film submission process for festivals?
  • Screeners serve as a critical tool in the film submission process by allowing festival programmers and industry professionals to evaluate a film's content and quality prior to its official screening. They provide an opportunity for programmers to assess the suitability of a film for their festival lineup based on its themes, narrative style, and production value. Without screeners, the selection process would be much less efficient, as programmers would have difficulty accessing and reviewing numerous submissions.
• How do submission guidelines affect the creation and distribution of screeners for film festivals?
  • Submission guidelines significantly impact how filmmakers create and distribute screeners since these guidelines dictate the required format and content that must accompany the screener. Filmmakers must adhere strictly to these guidelines to ensure their submission is considered. Additionally, the guidelines might specify particular information or promotional materials that need to be included with the screener, which can shape how filmmakers present their work and influence its chances of being selected.
• Evaluate the importance of digital screeners in today's film industry compared to traditional formats.
  • Digital screeners have transformed the way films are evaluated in today's industry by offering significant advantages over traditional formats like DVD or Blu-ray. They provide greater accessibility for festival programmers who can view films on various devices without needing physical copies. This shift has led to more efficient distribution and review processes while also reducing costs related to physical media production. However, filmmakers must also consider security measures to protect their work from piracy as digital formats are inherently more vulnerable than physical copies.

Related terms

Film Festival: An event that showcases films to the public and industry professionals, often providing awards and recognition for outstanding works.

Submission Guidelines: The specific requirements set by film festivals regarding how films should be submitted, including format, length, and additional materials needed.

Programming: The process of selecting films for screening at a festival, considering factors like audience appeal, thematic relevance, and diversity.