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Be the change you want to see in the world -
join the BREAKTHROUGH SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

  • When is the deadline for submitting my entry?
    The deadline for submissions is 25 November 2023. Entries received after this date will not be considered.
  • Is there a submission fee for entering the competition?
    No, there is no submission fee. The competition is free to enter.
  • What is the required duration of my entry?
    Entries should be between three and seven minutes long, including the titles and opening/closing credits. If your entry falls slightly below or below the mentioned time limit, it will be evaluated and reviewed on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Breakthrough team.
  • What is the official language for the film submission?
    The official language for film submissions is Khmer. However, it is optional to include English subtitles.
  • If I apply as a team, can I accommodate team members who are under 18 years old?
    No, every team member of the entry must be at least 18 years old and not older than 34. However, participants (cast) can be under 18 with an agreed-upon consent form to participate in the film.
  • Do I need a consent form for participants in my documentary film?
    Yes, it is essential to have a consent form for all participants involved in your documentary film, especially when dealing with sensitive subjects like gender-based violence. The consent form should clearly outline the purpose of the documentary, the potential risks and benefits of participation, and the rights of the participants regarding the use of their images and personal story.
  • How can I minimize the risk of exposing victims or traumatizing survivors in my documentary film?
    To minimize the risk of exposing victims or traumatizing survivors in your documentary film, it is crucial to approach the filmmaking process with sensitivity and empathy. Consider the potential impact on the participants and take necessary precautions to protect their privacy and well-being. This may include using pseudonyms, altering identifying details, or allowing participants to control the final edit to ensure their comfort and safety.
  • Can I submit a film that involves survivors or victims of gender-based violence?
    Yes, you can submit a film that involves survivors or victims of gender-based violence. However, it is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals involved. You must obtain proper consent from the cast members, especially if they have personal experience with gender-based violence. Additionally, you may be required to fill out a consent form provided by Breakthrough and follow specific guidelines to prioritize the safety and privacy of the survivors.
  • Can I create a documentary film involving participants who have experienced gender-based violence or sensitive situations?
    Yes, you can create a documentary film involving participants who have experienced gender-based violence or sensitive situations. However, it is crucial to obtain informed consent from all participants before filming. You must ensure they fully understand the purpose and potential impact of their involvement in the documentary. It is essential to consider the risk of exposing victims, victim-blaming, or retraumatizing survivors during the filmmaking process.
  • Can I use more than one theme for my short film entry?
    Yes, your entry can incorporate one or more Breakthrough Short-Film Festival themes, including gender-based violence, social inclusion, social norms, women's rights, and women's empowerment.
  • Do I need to fill out a consent form for the cast members involved in my film?
    Yes, it is highly recommended to have a consent form for all cast members, especially when dealing with sensitive topics such as gender-based violence. The consent form should clearly outline the nature of their involvement, the potential risks, and the rights they have regarding the use of their image and story.
  • Can I submit a published film owned by me or my team?
    No, your film must be completely original and not have been published before. It should not include any copyrighted material or violate any intellectual property rights.
  • Can we ask our teachers, friends, or family for help?
    While people over the age of 34 (supervisors, parents, teachers, etc.) can provide support and assistance in the making of the video, their role should remain minimal to ensure the primary creative contribution comes from the eligible participants.
  • Can I enter the competition as a team?
    The application is open for both individual and team entries. Multiple people can apply as a team to collaborate on a single short film project. There is no limitation to how many members can be on your team.
  • How to submit my short film?
    To submit your short film for consideration, please fill out the online form and provide all the required information. Only complete submissions will be considered. Additionally, upload your short film to Google Drive and provide the accessible URL in the online form. Note: Please ensure that the film link is not set to private. Please note that services involving file transfer via email, such as WeTransfer and FileMail, are prohibited and should not be used for submission.
  • Can I submit more than one entry?
    No, everyone can only be involved in one entry, an individual or a team submission.
  • Will I be entitled to the rights to my video entry?
    Yes, you will retain the rights to your video entry. However, by submitting your entry, you agree that Breakthrough and its partners will have unlimited access and use of the recognized videos in all formats and platforms to further the gender equality objectives of Breakthrough indefinitely and without providing compensation to the entrant.
  • What if I have additional questions or need further assistance?
    If you have additional questions or need further assistance, you can contact the Breakthrough team through the contact information provided on our Facebook and website. We will be happy to assist you.
  • Are expenses covered for entrants from provinces to attend the Breakthrough Film Festival?
    Breakthrough will cover all expenses for the selected entries (up to 3 members per team), including transportation, accommodation, and per diem. Note: The payment must comply with the Breakthrough guidelines.
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