Filmmaking
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Closing date - Fri 16 May
Competition closed
This competition has now closed. For other competitions, please see our competitions page.
At Into Film, we believe in the transformative power of cinema - the way it brings people together, sparks imagination, and creates unforgettable shared experiences. Our Magic of Cinema Competition invites young filmmakers to explore and celebrate what cinema means to them and their community.
This is their chance to tell a story about the magic of the big screen - whether it's a tribute to their favourite local cinema, a personal reflection on how film has shaped their life, or an exploration of cinema's impact on their community. Using documentary-style storytelling, we want young people to capture the emotion, history, and significance of cinema in a way that resonates with all audiences.
We are looking for short, documentary-style films (up to 3 minutes in length) that creatively explore the theme 'Magic of Cinema'. Films can be shot on camera, or by phone, or using whatever resources you have available - what matters most is your storytelling!
Some ideas to consider:
- A personal story about how cinema has influenced your life
- The history and importance of your local cinema
- Interviews with family, friends, or cinema staff about their love of film
- A creative exploration of how cinema brings communities together.
The competition is open to all young people aged 13-18 across the UK, and all submissions must be received by 23:59 on Friday 16 May 2025.
Please note: Entries must be submitted by persons aged 18 or over. If you are aged 17 or under, please make sure you ask a parent or guardian to complete the entrant details part of the form.
The winning entries will receive an exclusive mentorship experience with professional filmmakers, where the winners will have the opportunity to refine and transform their short film into a polished masterpiece. The winning works will also be showcased on the Into Film website and social media channels.
This is an incredible opportunity to showcase your filmmaking talent and celebrate the power of cinema - so grab your camera and start filming today!
How to enter?
Simply use the ‘Enter Competition' button above, and complete the entry form. You will then be able to upload your entry (maximum 3mins in length). You'll receive confirmation on the upload page when your upload has been successful. Entries can be submitted by a parent, guardian, teacher or other responsible adult on behalf of a young person or group of young people.
Please note: Entries must be submitted by persons aged 18 or over. If you are aged 17 or under, please make sure you ask a parent or guardian to complete the entrant details part of the form.
Permissions and Consent
If filming in a cinema or public venue, filmmakers must obtain permission from the venue management before filming.
If featuring members of the public or identifiable individuals, filmmakers must ensure they have obtained consent to include them in the film. This may require signed permission forms, please see our Terms and Conditions for more information.
Judging and Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Magic of Cinema Competition, submissions must adhere to the following guidelines:
- Filmmakers must be aged between 13 and 19 years at the time of submission
- The film should be a maximum of 3 minutes in duration
- Any music, images, or video content from a third party must be cleared for use by the copyright holder. We suggest using free library music that can be easily sourced online. Please see our Top Tips for Young Filmmakers sheet for guidance on how to source copyright-free music and otherwise keep your film compliant with our entry criteria.
- No surnames of young people aged 17 or under should be used in the video. Into Film is committed to the protection and safety of young people, and the addition of surnames in your videos can compromise this.
- Your film must be suitable for all audiences. Avoid swearing, offensive language, and risky behaviors such as drug taking, smoking, or excessive violence. If depicting risky behavior is necessary, consider creative ways to explore these issues responsibly.
The judges will evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:
Creativity and Storytelling - The film should present a compelling and original perspective on the magic of cinema. It should capture the emotional power of cinema, whether through personal experiences, interviews, or visual storytelling. It should highlight how cinema brings people together, inspires, or creates a sense of community. The storytelling should be engaging and imaginative.
Innovation in Execution - Whether through cinematography, editing, or narrative structure, the film should show a fresh and inventive approach to the theme. This could involve creative use of visuals, sound design, or unique perspectives that make the film stand out.
Clarity and Cohesion - The film should be well-structured and easy to follow. The message should be clearly conveyed, ensuring a smooth and engaging viewing experience.
