Film festivals are crucial for documentary filmmakers. They provide a platform to showcase work, network with industry professionals, and potentially secure distribution deals. From international events to niche gatherings, festivals offer diverse opportunities for and recognition.

Submitting to festivals requires careful planning and strategy. Filmmakers must research appropriate festivals, prepare required materials, and budget for submission fees. Understanding the selection process and preparing for screenings can maximize the impact of festival participation.

Film festival overview

  • Film festivals showcase a curated selection of films to audiences, industry professionals, and press
  • Festivals provide a platform for filmmakers to gain exposure, network, and potentially secure distribution
  • Film festivals play a crucial role in the life cycle of a documentary film, from building buzz to launching careers

Purpose of film festivals

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  • Celebrate and promote the art of filmmaking by curating a diverse selection of high-quality films
  • Provide opportunities for filmmakers to showcase their work to audiences, industry professionals, and press
  • Foster a sense of community and facilitate networking among filmmakers, producers, distributors, and other industry professionals
  • Serve as a launchpad for films to gain exposure, critical acclaim, and potentially secure distribution deals
  • Educate and engage audiences through Q&A sessions, , and

Types of film festivals

  • International film festivals (Cannes, Berlin, Toronto) that showcase a wide range of films from around the world
  • Genre-specific festivals that focus on particular types of films (documentary, animation, horror)
  • Regional or city-based festivals that highlight local talent and stories (, )
  • Niche festivals that cater to specific audiences or themes (LGBTQ+ film festivals, environmental film festivals)
  • Competitive festivals that award prizes in various categories (Sundance, )

Submitting to film festivals

  • Submitting a documentary to film festivals is a critical step in the film's journey to reaching audiences and gaining recognition
  • Filmmakers must carefully research and select appropriate festivals that align with their film's theme, style, and target audience
  • Submission requirements, fees, and deadlines vary among festivals, requiring careful planning and budgeting

Researching appropriate festivals

  • Identify festivals that have a track record of programming documentaries similar in theme, style, or subject matter to your film
  • Consider the festival's reputation, audience demographics, and industry attendance when selecting festivals to submit to
  • Consult festival databases (, ) and industry publications (Variety, IndieWire) to gather information on festivals
  • Seek advice from fellow filmmakers, producers, and sales agents on which festivals might be a good fit for your documentary

Submission requirements

  • Each festival has its own set of submission guidelines, which may include specific format requirements (aspect ratio, runtime, subtitles)
  • Many festivals require a secure online screener or DCP (Digital Cinema Package) for viewing purposes
  • Supplementary materials such as a , director's statement, and production stills are often required as part of the submission
  • Adherence to submission guidelines is crucial to ensure your film is considered for selection

Submission fees and waivers

  • Most festivals charge a submission fee, which can range from 20to20 to 100 or more depending on the festival's prominence and submission deadline
  • Some festivals offer fee waivers for students, alumni, or under-represented filmmakers
  • Budgeting for submission fees is an important consideration when planning a festival strategy
  • Early bird deadlines often have lower submission fees, while late deadlines may have higher fees

Submission strategies and timing

  • Develop a targeted festival strategy based on your film's unique qualities, goals, and budget
  • Consider submitting to a mix of top-tier, mid-level, and regional festivals to maximize exposure and award opportunities
  • Be mindful of submission deadlines and plan accordingly to ensure your film is completed and delivered on time
  • Submitting to festivals as a "work-in-progress" can be a strategy to secure early buzz and feedback, but carefully weigh the risks and benefits

Festival selection process

  • Understanding the festival selection process can help filmmakers better position their documentaries for acceptance
  • Festival programming teams, typically consisting of , , and , are responsible for reviewing and selecting films
  • Films are evaluated based on a variety of criteria, including , originality, and relevance to the festival's mission and audience

Programming team roles

  • : Oversees the overall vision and direction of the festival, making final decisions on film selections and programming
  • Programmers: Review and evaluate submitted films, curating selections that align with the festival's mission and identity
    • Programmers often specialize in specific genres, regions, or themes
  • Associate Programmers: Assist programmers in reviewing and evaluating films, providing insights and recommendations
  • Screeners: Conduct initial reviews of submitted films, flagging standout entries for programmers to consider

Selection criteria and categories

  • Artistic merit: Evaluating the film's storytelling, cinematography, editing, and overall craft
  • : Seeking films that push boundaries, offer fresh perspectives, or experiment with form
  • : Considering how the film's subject matter resonates with current events, social issues, or cultural conversations
  • : Striving to showcase a wide range of voices, perspectives, and experiences
  • Fit within festival categories (documentary, narrative, short film) and program sections (competition, spotlight, thematic sidebars)

Notification of acceptance or rejection

  • Festivals typically notify filmmakers of their acceptance or rejection via email, several weeks to months after the submission deadline
  • Acceptance notifications may include an official selection laurel, screening details, and information about filmmaker participation
  • Rejection notifications are often brief and may not provide specific feedback on why the film was not selected
  • Some festivals offer a "shortlist" or "second round" notification, indicating that the film is still under consideration for final selection

Preparing for festival screenings

  • Once a documentary is accepted into a festival, filmmakers must prepare various technical and promotional materials to ensure successful screenings
  • Careful attention to technical specifications, subtitling, and marketing assets can help maximize the impact of festival screenings

Digital cinema packages (DCPs)

  • Many festivals require films to be delivered as DCPs, which are high-quality, secure digital files designed for cinema playback
  • DCPs ensure a consistent, high-quality viewing experience across different screening venues
  • Filmmakers must budget for DCP creation and shipping costs, which can range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars
  • It's essential to test the DCP before shipping to ensure it plays correctly and meets the festival's technical specifications

Subtitles and closed captions

  • Festivals may require films to have English subtitles or closed captions, even if the film is primarily in English
  • Subtitles and captions ensure accessibility for international audiences and viewers with hearing impairments
  • Filmmakers should budget for professional subtitling and captioning services, which can cost several hundred to a few thousand dollars
  • It's important to proof subtitles and captions for accuracy, readability, and synchronization with the film's audio

Promotional materials for festivals

  • Festivals often request promotional materials from filmmakers to help market and publicize their screenings
  • Key art (poster, still images) should be high-resolution, visually compelling, and representative of the film's themes and tone
  • Press kits typically include a synopsis, director's statement, production notes, cast and crew bios, and film stills
  • Trailers and clips can be used for festival marketing and social media promotion
  • Printed postcards or flyers can be distributed at the festival to generate buzz and attract audiences

Attending film festivals

  • Attending film festivals is an essential part of the documentary filmmaker's journey, providing opportunities for networking, audience engagement, and career development
  • Filmmakers should plan their festival attendance strategically, prioritizing events that align with their goals and offer the most potential for impact

Networking opportunities at festivals

  • Festivals provide a unique environment for filmmakers to connect with industry professionals, such as distributors, sales agents, and other filmmakers
  • Attending festival parties, receptions, and panels can facilitate organic networking and relationship-building
  • Filmmakers should come prepared with business cards, elevator pitches, and a clear sense of their goals and objectives
  • Following up with contacts made at festivals is crucial for maintaining and leveraging relationships

Q&A sessions after screenings

  • Many festivals host Q&A sessions with filmmakers after their screenings, providing an opportunity to engage directly with audiences
  • Filmmakers should prepare for Q&As by anticipating common questions, practicing concise and engaging responses, and considering key takeaways for the audience
  • Q&As can be an opportunity to share behind-the-scenes stories, provide context for the film's themes, and build rapport with the audience
  • Filmmakers should be prepared to handle challenging or sensitive questions with grace and professionalism

Press and media at festivals

  • Festivals often attract press and media coverage, providing opportunities for filmmakers to gain exposure and critical acclaim
  • Filmmakers should work with the festival's publicity team to coordinate interviews, press screenings, and photo opportunities
  • Preparing a press kit, including a director's statement, production notes, and high-quality stills, can help facilitate media coverage
  • Monitoring and sharing press coverage can help build buzz and momentum for the film's future distribution and impact

Festival awards and prizes

  • Many festivals offer awards and prizes in various categories, such as , , or Cinematography
  • Winning a festival award can provide validation, exposure, and momentum for a film's future distribution and impact
  • Some awards may come with cash prizes, in-kind services (color correction, sound mix), or distribution opportunities
  • Filmmakers should be prepared to give acceptance speeches and interviews if they win awards, focusing on key themes and collaborators to thank

Distribution and sales

  • Film festivals often serve as marketplaces for documentary films, providing opportunities for filmmakers to secure distribution deals and generate sales
  • Understanding the role of sales agents, distributors, and film markets can help filmmakers navigate the complex landscape of festival-driven distribution

Sales agents and distributors

  • Sales agents represent films to potential buyers, such as distributors, broadcasters, and streaming platforms
  • They negotiate sales deals, manage rights, and coordinate deliverables on behalf of the filmmaker
  • Distributors acquire the rights to release films in specific territories or markets, such as theatrical, broadcast, or digital platforms
  • Filmmakers should research and meet with sales agents and distributors that specialize in documentaries and align with their film's goals and target audience

Film markets at festivals

  • Many major festivals, such as Cannes, Berlin, and Toronto, host concurrent film markets where sales agents and distributors buy and sell films
  • These markets provide a concentrated environment for sales, networking, and deal-making
  • Filmmakers may attend markets to pitch their projects, meet with potential partners, and track industry trends
  • Some markets, such as IDFA Forum or Hot Docs Deal Maker, focus specifically on documentary projects

Distribution deals and contracts

  • Distribution deals can take many forms, such as all-rights deals, territory-specific deals, or platform-specific deals
  • Deal terms may include minimum guarantees (upfront payments), revenue splits, and performance targets
  • Filmmakers should work with an entertainment lawyer to review and negotiate distribution contracts
  • It's important to understand the long-term implications of distribution deals, including rights reversion, backend participation, and creative control

Festival exposure vs commercial viability

  • While festival exposure can be valuable for building buzz and critical acclaim, it doesn't always translate into commercial success
  • Filmmakers should balance their festival strategy with their distribution goals, considering factors such as target audience, market demand, and revenue potential
  • Some films may prioritize festival prestige, while others may focus on securing a strong distribution deal or maximizing audience reach
  • Ultimately, a successful festival run can help position a documentary for wider distribution and impact, but it's not a guarantee of commercial viability

Case studies of successful films

  • Examining case studies of successful documentary films can provide valuable insights and inspiration for filmmakers navigating the festival circuit
  • These examples highlight different paths to success, from breakout festival hits to box office successes and career-launching moments

Breakout documentaries from festivals

  • "Hoop Dreams" (1994): Premiered at Sundance, won the Audience Award, and went on to critical acclaim and commercial success
  • "Super Size Me" (2004): Won the Directing Award at Sundance and became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $20 million worldwide
  • "Honeyland" (2019): Won the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize at Sundance, became the first film to be nominated for both Best Documentary Feature and Best International Feature Film at the Oscars

Festival darlings vs box office hits

  • "Searching for Sugar Man" (2012): Won the Audience Award and Special Jury Prize at Sundance, grossed over $3 million in the US
  • "RBG" (2018): Premiered at Sundance, grossed over $14 million in the US, becoming a cultural touchstone and earning an Oscar nomination
  • "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" (2018): Premiered at Sundance, grossed over $22 million in the US, becoming the highest-grossing biographical documentary of all time

Career launching at major festivals

  • "Capturing the Friedmans" (2003): Won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance, launched director Andrew Jarecki's career and earned an Oscar nomination
  • "Wasteland" (2010): Won the Audience Award for World Cinema Documentary at Sundance, launched director Lucy Walker's career and earned an Oscar nomination
  • "The Act of Killing" (2012): Premiered at Telluride, won the European Film Award for Best Documentary, launched director Joshua Oppenheimer's career and earned an Oscar nomination

Building a festival strategy

  • Developing a comprehensive festival strategy is crucial for maximizing a documentary's impact and success on the circuit
  • Filmmakers should set clear goals, prioritize , budget resources, and measure success to optimize their festival run

Setting goals for festival run

  • Identify the primary objectives for your festival run, such as gaining exposure, securing distribution, winning awards, or building buzz
  • Consider how festival screenings can support your film's long-term impact goals, such as raising awareness, influencing policy, or engaging target audiences
  • Set realistic expectations based on your film's unique qualities, budget, and team resources
  • Communicate your festival goals clearly with your team, partners, and stakeholders to ensure alignment and support

Prioritizing festival submissions

  • Develop a tiered list of priority festivals based on your film's goals, target audience, and budget
  • Research festivals' programming history, industry attendance, and reputation to assess their potential value for your film
  • Consider a mix of top-tier, mid-level, and niche festivals to balance exposure, prestige, and accessibility
  • Be strategic about premiere status, considering the impact of world, international, or regional premieres on your film's festival prospects

Budget and resources for festivals

  • Create a detailed budget for festival submissions, travel, and promotional expenses
  • Factor in submission fees, DCP creation, shipping, travel, accommodations, and marketing materials
  • Seek funding support from grants, sponsors, or crowdfunding campaigns to offset festival costs
  • Allocate team resources strategically, considering which festivals merit in-person attendance or additional promotional efforts

Measuring success of festival screenings

  • Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of your festival screenings, such as audience turnout, press coverage, or distribution offers
  • Collect and analyze audience feedback through surveys, Q&As, or social media to gauge reception and impact
  • Track press mentions, reviews, and social media buzz to assess the film's critical reception and word-of-mouth potential
  • Debrief with your team after each festival to evaluate successes, challenges, and lessons learned to inform your ongoing strategy
  • Celebrate milestones and achievements along the way, recognizing the hard work and dedication of your team and supporters

Key Terms to Review (36)

Artistic merit: Artistic merit refers to the quality and value of a creative work based on its artistic expression, originality, and emotional impact. It is often used to assess the significance of films, literature, visual arts, and performances, especially in competitive settings where works are evaluated against one another. This concept plays a crucial role in how audiences, critics, and institutions perceive and appreciate artistic works.
Associate programmers: Associate programmers are individuals who assist in the curation and selection of films for festivals, often working under the guidance of festival programmers. Their role is crucial in identifying new and innovative films that align with the festival's vision, enhancing the overall programming and viewer experience.
Audience Award: An audience award is a recognition given to a film at festivals based on votes from the attendees, reflecting the preferences of the general public rather than industry professionals. This award highlights films that resonate with audiences, emphasizing the importance of viewer engagement in the film festival experience. Audience awards can significantly impact a film's visibility and success, often influencing distribution opportunities and further screenings.
Berlin Film Festival: The Berlin Film Festival, also known as the Berlinale, is one of the world's most prestigious film festivals, held annually in Berlin, Germany. It serves as a significant platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and features a wide range of films, from major studio productions to independent films, promoting cultural exchange and dialogue through cinema.
Best documentary: The term 'best documentary' refers to a recognition given to a documentary film that excels in various aspects, including storytelling, cinematography, editing, and overall impact. This designation often comes from awards at film festivals, highlighting the film's quality and significance in the documentary genre. Winning or being nominated for 'best documentary' can elevate a film's visibility and credibility within the industry, opening doors for further distribution and audience engagement.
Cannes Film Festival: The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious and influential film festivals in the world, held annually in Cannes, France. Established in 1946, it serves as a platform for showcasing new films of all genres, promoting international cinema, and celebrating filmmakers' artistic achievements. The festival is famous for its red carpet events and awards, including the coveted Palme d'Or, which honors the best film of the competition.
Cultural exchange: Cultural exchange refers to the process through which different cultures share ideas, traditions, and customs, often leading to mutual understanding and enrichment. It plays a vital role in connecting people from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaboration, and enhancing creativity in various forms of expression, such as film and art.
Digital cinema package (dcp): A digital cinema package (DCP) is a collection of digital files used to store and deliver a feature film or short film to cinemas for projection. DCPs include not just the movie itself, but also audio, subtitles, and metadata that are essential for the proper playback and presentation of the film in a digital cinema environment. This format is critical for film festivals as it ensures a consistent and high-quality viewing experience across various venues.
Diversity and Inclusion: Diversity and inclusion refer to the practice of recognizing, respecting, and valuing individual differences within a group, as well as creating an environment where all individuals feel welcomed, supported, and empowered. This concept goes beyond just acknowledging differences related to race, gender, and ethnicity; it encompasses a broad spectrum of identities, experiences, and perspectives. Fostering diversity and inclusion is essential for promoting creativity, innovation, and social justice in various fields, including the arts.
Documentary film festival: A documentary film festival is an organized event that showcases a selection of documentary films, often including premieres, panel discussions, and opportunities for filmmakers to engage with audiences. These festivals serve as platforms for filmmakers to present their work, foster discussions on important issues, and connect with industry professionals, thus promoting the art and craft of documentary filmmaking. They can vary in size and scope, from local events to internationally recognized festivals.
Exposure: Exposure refers to the amount of light that reaches a camera's sensor or film, significantly influencing the brightness and clarity of an image. Proper exposure is essential in capturing the desired mood, detail, and overall quality of a shot. Achieving the right exposure involves balancing the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings to create visually engaging narratives.
Festival director: A festival director is the individual responsible for overseeing the planning, organization, and execution of a film festival. This role includes curating the festival's lineup, managing budgets, coordinating events, and ensuring that the festival aligns with its mission and vision. The festival director plays a critical role in shaping the audience experience and fostering connections between filmmakers, industry professionals, and the community.
Festival programming team: The festival programming team is a group of individuals responsible for selecting and organizing films to be showcased at a film festival. This team plays a crucial role in curating the festival’s lineup, ensuring a diverse and engaging selection that reflects the festival's goals and audience interests.
Film markets at festivals: Film markets at festivals are specialized events held in conjunction with film festivals where industry professionals gather to buy, sell, and promote films. These markets provide a platform for filmmakers, distributors, and buyers to network and negotiate deals, making them vital for the commercial aspect of the film industry.
Filmfreeway: FilmFreeway is an online platform that simplifies the process of submitting films to film festivals. It allows filmmakers to discover, submit, and manage their festival entries in a user-friendly manner, making it easier for them to reach a wider audience and gain recognition in the film industry. This platform has transformed how filmmakers interact with festivals, promoting accessibility and efficiency.
IDFA: IDFA stands for the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam, which is one of the world's leading documentary film festivals. It showcases a wide variety of documentary films from around the globe, emphasizing innovative storytelling and diverse perspectives. The festival serves as a platform for filmmakers to present their work, engage with audiences, and connect with industry professionals.
Networking opportunities: Networking opportunities refer to chances for individuals to connect, interact, and build professional relationships with others in their industry. These interactions can lead to collaborations, job offers, mentorships, and access to resources that enhance career development. Such opportunities are crucial for personal branding and expanding one’s professional circle, often resulting in valuable insights and support.
New York Film Festival: The New York Film Festival (NYFF) is an annual film festival held in New York City that showcases innovative and artistic films from around the world. It serves as a significant platform for filmmakers, both established and emerging, to present their works to audiences and critics, promoting cultural exchange and dialogue within the film community.
Originality and innovation: Originality and innovation refer to the creation of new ideas, concepts, or methods that offer a fresh perspective or approach. In the context of creative fields, these qualities are essential for artists and filmmakers as they strive to distinguish their work from existing pieces, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and presentation. Originality involves uniqueness and authenticity, while innovation emphasizes the practical application of original ideas to bring about change or improvement in artistic expression.
Palme d'or: The Palme d'Or, or 'Golden Palm', is the highest prize awarded at the Cannes Film Festival, recognizing the best film of the event. This prestigious award has a significant impact on a film's visibility and commercial success, often seen as a mark of excellence in the film industry. Winning the Palme d'Or can elevate a director's career and lead to international acclaim for the film.
Panel Discussions: Panel discussions are organized conversations involving a group of experts or participants who discuss a specific topic in front of an audience. These discussions typically take place at events like film festivals, where filmmakers, critics, and audiences gather to explore themes, techniques, and industry trends in film.
Press Kit: A press kit is a collection of promotional materials designed to provide media professionals with essential information about a film, including its background, cast, crew, production details, and visual assets. It serves as a crucial tool for filmmakers to communicate their project’s narrative and artistic vision to journalists, reviewers, and festival programmers, especially during events like film festivals where visibility and media coverage are vital for a film's success.
Programmers: Programmers are individuals who curate and select films for presentation at film festivals, shaping the overall experience and thematic direction of the event. Their role goes beyond merely choosing films; they also engage in promoting the festival, networking with filmmakers, and fostering relationships with industry stakeholders to enhance the festival's reputation and audience reach.
Q&A session: A Q&A session is an interactive discussion where participants have the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers, typically held after a presentation or screening. This format allows filmmakers, critics, and audiences to engage in meaningful dialogue about the work presented, deepening the understanding and appreciation of the narrative and technical choices made.
Relevance and Timeliness: Relevance and timeliness refer to the importance and appropriateness of content in relation to current events or ongoing discussions. In the context of film festivals, these aspects play a crucial role in determining which films gain attention, resonate with audiences, and have the potential for awards or distribution deals. They help filmmakers focus on themes and narratives that reflect societal interests or pressing issues at the moment.
Robert Redford: Robert Redford is an American actor, director, producer, and businessman, best known for his influential role in the film industry and for founding the Sundance Film Festival. His work as both a filmmaker and an actor has had a significant impact on independent cinema and the promotion of emerging filmmakers, making him a key figure in the context of film festivals.
San Francisco International Film Festival: The San Francisco International Film Festival is one of the longest-running film festivals in the United States, showcasing a diverse range of independent and international films. Established in 1957, it serves as a platform for filmmakers to present their work, engage with audiences, and promote cinematic arts while highlighting innovative storytelling and cultural diversity.
Screeners: Screeners are preview copies of films or documentaries sent to industry professionals, critics, and festival programmers to review prior to their official release or festival screening. These copies allow the intended audience to evaluate the work's quality, themes, and potential for success in various contexts, particularly in film festivals where competition is high.
Screening process: The screening process refers to the systematic evaluation of submitted films to determine their suitability for inclusion in a film festival. This process involves assessing various aspects such as storytelling, technical quality, originality, and thematic relevance, ensuring that only the most compelling films are showcased to audiences. Film festivals often have specific criteria that filmmakers must meet, and the screening process serves as a crucial gatekeeping mechanism for curating the festival lineup.
Short film festival: A short film festival is an event dedicated to showcasing and celebrating short films, typically with a duration of 40 minutes or less. These festivals provide a platform for filmmakers to present their works to audiences, gain recognition, and engage with industry professionals. They often include screenings, awards, and networking opportunities, allowing both emerging and established filmmakers to connect and share their creative visions.
Submissions: Submissions refer to the process of presenting a film or documentary to a film festival for consideration to be screened or awarded. This process is crucial as it allows filmmakers to share their work with a broader audience and industry professionals, potentially gaining recognition, distribution opportunities, and critical feedback. The submission process often involves meeting specific criteria set by the festival, including format, length, and thematic relevance.
Sundance Film Festival: The Sundance Film Festival is a prestigious annual film festival held in Park City, Utah, showcasing independent films from around the world. Known for its focus on emerging filmmakers and innovative storytelling, it serves as a launching pad for many notable films and filmmakers, often highlighting hybrid and experimental forms of cinema that challenge traditional narrative structures.
Thierry Frémaux: Thierry Frémaux is a prominent French film curator and director, best known for his role as the delegate general of the Cannes Film Festival. He has been influential in shaping the festival's programming and is recognized for his contributions to the promotion of cinema on an international scale. His efforts have helped elevate the visibility of diverse films and filmmakers, making Cannes one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world.
Toronto Film Festival: The Toronto Film Festival (TIFF) is an annual film festival held in Toronto, Canada, showcasing a diverse array of films from around the world. As one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals, TIFF plays a crucial role in launching films and attracting industry attention, offering filmmakers a platform to reach audiences and critics alike.
Withoutabox: Withoutabox is an online platform designed to simplify the film festival submission process for filmmakers and festival organizers. It allows filmmakers to submit their films to multiple festivals from a single account, streamlining the often cumbersome entry process while providing festivals with tools to manage submissions and communicate with entrants effectively.
Workshops: Workshops are interactive sessions that provide participants with hands-on learning experiences and skill development in a specific area. They often involve practical exercises, discussions, and feedback, making them a valuable resource for filmmakers and documentarians looking to enhance their craft and understand the industry better.
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