[custom_adv] Try to picture lock at the very least. If there are missing FX, put a title on screen to communicate that. If the audio isn’t perfect, put up a title saying “temp sound.” [custom_adv] Don’t let the final touches hold you back from submitting, but do all you can and give it a very good last look. If you have your picture locked, the other details will be forgiven, but will need to be fixed before the screening. [custom_adv] Just as any stage actor will tell you, comedy is harder than drama. No disrespect to the tearjerkers and action flicks out there, of course — in fact, it’s because there are so many good non-comedies that a quick and light laugher is always sought after. [custom_adv] The most programmable type of film is a 90-minute feature comedy or a 10-minute short comedy. [custom_adv] Try and stay out of the Dead Zone of 20-60 minutes. Shorts should be short — that means less than 20 minutes. Features should really be at least 60 minutes. [custom_adv] The run times between 20-60 minutes fall into a dead zone which, though they may be great films, can make them tough to slot into a programmer’s schedule. Of course, if it’s an excellent film, the programmer will find a way, but you won’t be making it easy on them. [custom_adv] You’ve got to start somewhere with submissions, but don’t start at the elite level. Don’t submit your first short to Cannes — start small and gain momentum from there if you’re a first-time filmmaker. [custom_adv] Some larger festivals put a big emphasis on premieres, so if you really think you can break through, submit to these fests first and give them the opportunity for a premiere. Then if you’re unsuccessful, submit to the smaller ones. [custom_adv] Some larger festivals put a big emphasis on premieres, so if you really think you can break through, submit to these fests first and give them the opportunity for a premiere. Then if you’re unsuccessful, submit to the smaller ones. [custom_adv] Some larger festivals put a big emphasis on premieres, so if you really think you can break through, submit to these fests first and give them the opportunity for a premiere. Then if you’re unsuccessful, submit to the smaller ones.