FAQs

How do I submit my story/treatment for consideration?
The submission page provides a form to fill out in its entirety and upload a PDF of your documentary treatment. All entries that haven’t been completely filled out will not be considered.
 
When is the deadline to submit my story/treatment?
The deadline is Friday, September 10, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
 
Do I need to live in, or be from, North Carolina?
No. We want filmmakers not only from NC, but all over the country who have a great story to tell about a memory they, or someone they know, had while traveling in North Carolina.
 
How many stories/treatments will be chosen?
A minimum of two stories will be chosen from each of the mountain, Piedmont, and coastal regions.

When will the finalists be announced?  
If you are selected to film your documentary for the Firsts That Last Film Festival, we will contact you via email by September 22, 2021.

If my story/treatment is chosen, what are the dates to film, edit, score, finish and submit the final film?
Production timelines will be determined based on your story. You will have three days for production and two weeks for post-production.
 
When and where is the actual Firsts That Last Film Festival?
The film festival will take place in Summer 2022. It will be held digitally. More details to come.
 
Does the story have to be about a person?
No. The story can be about a person, pet, or it can be about a location in NC, an event that only happens here, etc. We’re looking for a wide variety of stories.
 
Does my story need to be set in a certain season?
No. We want stories based on memories that have happened in spring, summer, fall and winter. 

Can I submit more than one story/treatment?
Yes, you can submit as many stories/treatments as you want. If you decide to enter more than one, please keep in mind that we will be choosing an equal number of stories from the mountains, Piedmont and coastal regions.

Will I be compensated?
Yes. Each finalist chosen to produce their documentary will be given $25,000. 50% prior to production, 25% following delivery of post-production materials, and 25% following delivery and approval of final film. See Official Rules for complete details.

If I win, is there a prize?
Yes. The winner will receive $30,000 and their winning documentary may be aired in its entirety on National Television in 2022.