WHAT + WHY
​PLANET CINEMA?

Planet Cinema is a global film awards competition where the independent filmmaker with the Best Picture of the year, as seen through the discerning eyes of our jury, can win a $1,500 cash prize. All competing filmmakers can also benefit from a professional film review, as well as film awards and nominations accredited by IMDB.

Planet Cinema serves as an ideal platform for independent filmmakers at all stages, be it those starting their career journey or seasoned veterans. If you possess a film project that may not meet the standards of Cannes but still merits recognition, and you're eager for a chance to win a cash prize, then Planet Cinema is the place for you.

For those who have just returned from Cannes, held their world premiere, and are no longer bound by exclusivity agreements, Planet Cinema provides a risk-free environment. Since we don't digitally showcase your film, there's no threat of violating any distribution contracts. Instead, we critically evaluate your work, offering recognition in the form of IMDB-accredited awards and nominations, or a spoiler-free professional review.

Furthermore, if you're awaiting a response from Cannes, why not use the interim to gather early critical feedback from our jury at Planet Cinema? With no digital showcasing involved, there's no downside. Enhance your waiting period with a competition that emphasizes both integrity and passion.

While we may be newer than some established film festivals, we've rapidly found our place in the online film festival world. Established as an antidote to the often distant, slow, and inaccessible nature of traditional film festivals, we champion a fresh and immediate method of celebrating filmmakers' contributions.

Planet Cinema welcomes all genres, a testament to our faith in cinema's universal appeal. We urge filmmakers to innovate, experiment, and move beyond mere storytelling to leave indelible marks on their audiences.

We proudly offer a variety of awards, acknowledging both technical prowess and creative flair in filmmaking. Our nominees and winners can prominently display these notable achievements in various award categories on IMDb.

At the heart of Planet Cinema is the belief that every independent filmmaker is a star and deserves to be celebrated, they are a cosmic traveler on an exciting journey of creation, forever reaching for the stars. We're devoted to furnishing another avenue for recognition and success, making their voyage as exhilarating and rewarding as possible. With the brand's spirit of inclusivity, adventure, and recognition of hard work, Planet Cinema adds a thrilling dimension to the filmmaking journey.
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Planet Cinema upholds values like fun, prompt feedback, and mutual celebration of filmmaking prowess. We strive to foster a lively, engaging, and inclusive space where filmmakers can proudly showcase their work without apprehension of encountering a "void of rejection."

PRIVACY POLICY

1. Collection of Information

• Planet Cinema may collect personal information such as name, email address, and film project details during the submission process.

2. Use of Information

• Your personal data will be used for communication regarding the competition and to send marketing communications from our partners.
• We might use selected film clips or images on our platforms, ensuring copyright rules are observed.

3. Opt-Out

• You can opt-out from marketing communications by emailing us at any time.
• Every marketing communication will include a link or instruction on how to unsubscribe.

4. Data Protection

• Planet Cinema ensures that all personal data is stored securely.
• We will not sell, distribute, or lease your personal information to third parties unless we have your permission or are required by law to do so.

5. Contact

• For any queries or concerns regarding this privacy policy, please contact us through our official website.

​With these rules, regulations, and privacy policy, Planet Cinema aims to provide a transparent and fair platform for all participating filmmakers, celebrating their talent and hard work in the world of cinema.

INCENTIVES

- Receive feedback at lightning speed
- Stand a chance to win a $1,500 cash prize for the Best Picture of the year
- Earn awards and nominations recognized by IMDb
- Benefit from a professional film review
- Some winners get the opportunity to join our esteemed jury panel the following year
- Engage in a film awards competition driven by integrity and passion
- Our website brims with passion, evident in its design and media exposure
- Authenticity is our hallmark; we're transparent and genuine. Visit our jury page to get acquainted with us.
- A single submission ensures your consideration across all award categories

JUDGING CRITERIA

- Technical Value: A benchmark that acknowledges industry standards and the adept use of filmmaking tools. This phase applauds those who masterfully wield the tools at their disposal.
  
- Artistic/Creative Value: The subsequent stage celebrates filmmakers and storytellers based on their inventive and artful use of available tools.
  
- Original/Transgressive Value: The final phase salutes those transcending standard filmmaking. We seek innovators who dare to venture beyond, eliciting strong, enduring reactions from their audience. The power of transcendent storytelling.

COMPETITION
RULES

Planet Cinema Online Film Awards Competition Rules and Regulations
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1. Eligibility

• Planet Cinema is open to filmmakers globally.
• Projects should not promote extremist political or religious views.
• Projects that defame individuals or organizations will be automatically disqualified.
• The submitter must own all copyright rights.

2. Submission

• Entrants must submit their films for critical evaluation only. Films will not be showcased digitally.
• Selected clips or images might be posted on our digital platforms or associated media outlets, subject to copyright permissions.
• We do not release the full film or script under any circumstances.

3. Awards

• The Best Picture of the year will receive a $1,500 cash prize.
• All competing filmmakers are eligible for a professional film review.
• Awards and nominations will be accredited by IMDb.

4. Communication

• By entering the competition, you automatically opt-in to receive marketing communications from partner film festivals and film awards competitions.
• Opt-out is available by emailing us with a request to unsubscribe.
• Withdrawal from these communications can be done at any time.

5. Prize Allocation

• If a cash prize winner doesn't come forward within two weeks of being approached, and after two follow-up attempts, the cash prize will be awarded to the 2nd Place runner-up, and so forth.

6. Refund Policy

• No refunds will be issued after competition results are announced.

7. Feedback and Conduct

• We value sportsmanship and integrity.
• Abusive or non-constructive feedback will not be entertained.

8. Judging Criteria

• Technical Value: Recognizes standard and proper use of filmmaking tools.
• Artistic/Creative Value: Evaluates how filmmaking tools are utilized.
• Original/Transgressive Value: Acknowledges filmmakers who innovate, experiment, and create powerful, long-lasting impacts on viewers.

AWARDS

Submission to one category grants you consideration across all award categories

Best Picture
​Excellence In Independent Moviemaking Award
Best Feature Film or Screenplay
Best Long Short Film
Best Short Film or Screenplay
Best Micro-Short Film
Best Student Film
Best Experimental Film
Best Queer Film or Script
Best Series or TV Script
Best International Film
Best Low Budget Film
​Best Innovative Film (New Media)
Best Emotion Essay

Best Avant-Garde Film
​Best Groundbreaking Concept
Best Unique Story
Best Drama
Best Comedy or Musical
Best Action, Sci-Fi or Fantasy
Best Horror or Thriller
Best Directing
Best First-Time Director
Best Young Director
​Newcomer Award
Best Original Screenplay
Best Cinematography
​Best Ensemble Cast

Best Lead Actor
Best Lead Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Best Supporting Actress
Best Editing + Sound
Best CGI + VFX
​Best Original Score
​Best Film Trailer
Best Art Direction
Best Makeup + SFX
Best Animated Film
Animation Mastery Award
Best Student Animation
Animation Artistry Award

Best Feature Documentary
Best Short Documentary
Best Debut Documentary
Best Doc Directing
Best Doc Cinematography
Best Doc Editing + Sound
Best Reflection Essay
Best Character Chronicle Documentary
Best Earth Exploration Documentary
Best Music Video
Best Avant-Garde Music Video
Best Original Song
Commercial Visual Mastery Award
Best Original Podcast

REASONS TO TRUST

At Planet Cinema, we're more than just an online film awards competition. We're a community built on trust, transparency, and a genuine commitment to filmmakers of all backgrounds. Here are some compelling reasons why you can put your faith in us:

1. Philosophy Alignment:

• Our online film awards competition model is crafted with you in mind. We understand the allure and prestige of big names like Cannes, Venice, and Berlinale. However, we also believe in the power and immediacy of online platforms to give filmmakers timely feedback and recognition. With us, you're not just another name. You're part of a community.

2. Personalized Communication:

• Our email marketing is not just a generic message. We address you by your first name and often include a personalized discount code. It's our way of showing we've taken the time to understand and appreciate your project.

3. Transparent Team:

• Trust is easier when you know the faces behind the brand. Our online presence proudly showcases our jury team. We aren't hiding; we're here, ready to engage and support.

4. Value-packed Achievements:

• Cash prizes that give tangible rewards for your hard work.
• IMDb-accredited awards and nominations.
• A professional film review service.
• Opportunity to be part of our esteemed jury panel the following year.

​5. Unquestionable Professionalism:

• From a beautifully crafted website to an elegantly designed festival logo, the quality and elegance in the execution of our online film festival stand out.

6. Recognized and Trusted:

• Our credibility extends beyond our platform. We have a dedicated Wikipedia page and consistent press coverage.

7. Quality Over Quantity:

• Our official jury selection and the films of our previous winners are a testament to our high standards and commitment to excellence.

8. Approachable and Friendly Team:

• At the end of the day, we're film enthusiasts just like you. Our team is personable, friendly, and always approachable.

9. Quick Turnarounds:

• We understand the anticipation. With us, you experience a shorter wait for outcomes.

10. A Sure-Investment:

• We offer sure-investments like professionally written film reviews. With Planet Cinema, you're not just submitting a film; you're making a wise investment in its future.

In Conclusion...
Planet Cinema is not just another festival on your submission list; it's a community, a platform, and a partner in your filmmaking journey. Our commitment to transparency, value, and genuine recognition makes us a trusted choice for filmmakers worldwide. Join us, and let's make cinematic magic together! ​

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