Judging

Judging Entries

Why does BestFest give students their judging/scoring sheets?

BestFest believes that unbiased feedback is crucial in the development of the next generation of storytellers. The learning process, when it comes to filmmaking, never ends. Following the announcement of Official Selections to BestFest, scoring sheets are returned to students. Because many of the categories require focused scoring areas, different scoring forms are used. Criteria for judging each category is listed on each entry form.

Judges’ Qualifications

BestFest uses industry-knowledgeable professionals who give of their time to judge student films. These are people who are passionate about storytelling and typically have written, directed, filmed and produced an array of films, shorts, commercials, documentaries, and instructional and promotional films/videos. BestFest judges also go through an orientation of BestFest judging forms and criteria and are well-versed in providing directed, meaningful insight, feedback and comments.

Judging Rules/Decorum

Judges are not given information concerning students’ names or the schools where they attend. Aided by a facilitator, a small team of judges screen an entire category in a single session. Following, scores for all entries are tabulated and averaged and open discussion takes place – trying to ensure that entries with incredible storytelling “heart” don't get misplaced and left out of consideration.

Two Rounds of Judging

All entries go through a first round of judging where they are rated in comparison to others in the same category and division. Unless it's a very noticeable ranking that jumps out during the first round, typically 3-7 entries move to a second round for consideration by a different set of judges where they review the entries using the same criteria and judging forms. They make the final determinations for Official Selection, placement and awards at BestFest America including Best of the Fest for both high school and college divisions.

All entries must secure the rights for all music and sound, adhere to Ratings, and sign off they have talent releases, and location permits.

Judging Entries

Drama Judging Form

Learn to make better movies. Every entrant receives their film's scoring sheets.