BlkScript: Shorts
Theblkscript.com is set to become the premiere destination for “The World’s Best Black & Diverse Short Films” and the next generation of great filmmakers of color and all diverse backgrounds via our “BlkScript: Shorts” platform. Our brand will be synonymous with representation through quality storytelling that has been selected and curated to the highest regard.
*PLEASE READ OUR ENTIRE PROCESS BELOW*
NOTE: We will only release ONE FILM A DAY to ensure that each film selected receives the proper attention and care it deserves. Please submit ONLY when ready to release. If more time is needed, feel free to submit your project once it's complete.
Our intention for our “BlkScript: Shorts” submissions is to operate more like an online HOSTING, STREAMING, AND MARKETING agency rather than a traditional film festival. This means that we WILL optimize your film for online release. We look to ensure that your film is as attention-grabbing for the audience as possible. We WILL also monitor your analytics after launch and make any adjustments as needed to keep your film competitive amongst our constant stream of content.
Unfortunately, we CANNOT refund a submission fee once you've submitted your film. Please be sure that you want to submit your film before doing so. All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. NO WAIVERS PERMITTED.
REQUIREMENTS
• YOU MUST OWN THE FULL RIGHTS TO THE FILM.
• YOU MUST HAVE THE APPROPRIATE LICENSING RIGHTS FOR ANY MUSIC AND SOUNDS USED.
• ANY FILM SUBMITTED BELOW 1080P RESOLUTION OR HAS POOR AUDIO QUALITY, ETC. WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
• FILM RUNNING TIME NEEDS TO MEET A 7 MINUTE MINIMUM, 15 MINUTE MAXIMUM.
Please ensure that all licenses are for online usage (including YouTube) for all territories. If you have "handshake" agreements with labels or musicians, you MUST obtain formal licenses to bypass YouTube's automatic copyright system (or be prepared to reach out to your contacts to clear all copyright claims that may pop up). Nothing escapes YouTube's system, so have your paperwork and licensing contacts ready. Online music rights are one of the biggest hurdles, and claims can take up to 30 days to clear, so be prepared.
Theblkscript.com runs on an ad-supported model, so we do run ads BEFORE AND AFTER films (but not during/within the film). Each selected film will be featured and have it’s own dedicated landing page on theblkscript.com and we encourage each submitter to use their issued page link when promoting their film.
A small WATERMARK will be applied to deter theft from others and a short fade in/out of our brand at the beginning/end of every film.
If you plan to release the film on other YouTube channels, it is recommended that you consider allowing us to be the first/original uploader for the best results. Constant changes are made to YouTube's algorithm which may affect duplicate content to prevent spam. Allowing us to be the first/original uploader ensures that your release reaches as many viewers as possible organically. If you have the film on a personal channel, you can remove it then re-upload it after it has been released through theblkscript.com for thirty days.
We ask filmmakers to consider removing any and all intro credit sequences (or moving them to the end). By removing them or moving them to the end, you increase the chances of keeping the viewer engaged with the content. Additionally, it allows for a smoother transition into the film and sets the tone for the story to unfold.
WE DO NOT ACCEPT
• MUSIC VIDEOS OR ABSTRACT FILMS WITH NO STORY.
• PROMOTIONAL VIDEOS OR COMMERCIALS.
• MONTAGES, TIMELAPSE VIDEOS, VLOGS.
• *DOCUMENTARIES - VISIT BLKSCRIPT: DOCS FOR SUBMISSION
OUR PROCESS
Submit your film via *unlisted YouTube or Vimeo link. We accept films year-round.
Our team will review your submission within 30 days. If your film is selected, we will send an offer for the non-exclusive right to showcase your film on theblkscript.com.
If you accept, we will send you an agreement for your electronic signature.
Once the agreement is signed, we will send you a request for high-quality digital files (including the .MOV or .MP4, poster art, stills, synopsis, and credits).
After we receive the files, our team will work on prepping your film for release. This may include landing page creation, title, and thumbnail selection. Please note that this process can take up to two weeks.
We will send you a link to your final version for your approval.
Once approved, we will schedule your release and provide you with a release date. We will also promote your film on our social media platforms before and after the release.
On the release date, we will upload your film to our YouTube channel and other social media platforms. We will also send you a link to share with your fans and followers.
After your film is released, we will monitor its performance and analytics. We will make any necessary adjustments to further optimize its performance.
We will send you a report of your film's performance after 30 days.
Thank you for considering theblkscript.com as a platform for your film. We are excited to showcase your work and help you reach a broader audience.
