Judging

Best of the City Film
In each city, a panel of three judges will select the "Best Film of the City." In the past, these judges have included film critics, producers, actors, and filmmakers.

The judges' criteria for "Best Film" are:

We are looking for the best overall film. High marks are given for entertainment value and equal weight is given to story and production values.

Secondary judging considerations are:

• Use of prop, character and line of dialogue
• Adherence to genre

Other awards usually given on the local level include: Best Directing, Best Script, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Acting, Best Use of Character, Best Use of Prop, Best Use of Line, Best Music, Best Sound Design, Best Effects.

Audience Awards
All films, on-time and late, are eligible for the Audience Award, which is determined by audience ballot at the initial screenings in each city.