PROGRAMMING REQUIREMENTS
Programming emphasizes new works in both documentary features and shorts, with accepted works being eligible for an overall Audience Choice award.

• Feature-length entries (60 minutes and over) that have been or will have been exhibited theatrically or otherwise made available to the general public, either for free or for purchase, prior to DocLands dates may not be eligible to submit to this category. This includes, but is not limited to, public theatrical exhibition (festival or otherwise), television broadcast, home video, or any digital platform. Exceptions may be made under special circumstances.
• Entries accepted for DocLands will not be eligible for inclusion in the Mill Valley Film Festival.
• DocLands does not pay rental fees. Instead, our resources are invested in the production and promotion of the best possible showcase for your work. Films may subsequently be considered for theatrical runs (in-theater, if possible or virtually) at our year-round venue, the Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center.
• Films may be screened more than once during the festival
• Industrial, promotional or instructional films are NOT eligible.
• Films must have been completed after October 1, 2019.
• Filmmakers will be notified via email of entry status by approximately April 16, 2021.
• Once a film is submitted it may not be withdrawn.
• If selected to screen in the festival, you may be asked to provide an electronic press kit.

EXHIBITION FORMATS 

Filmmakers are responsible for providing an exhibition-quality file, or if in-theater screenings are possible, a DCP – the format for exhibition is DCP only. Filmmakers are responsible for transfers. Please contact the Programming Department at [email protected] to inquire about DCP transfer assistance.

SHIPPING INFORMATION/EXHIBITION PRINTS
Exhibition prints must be sent to the Festival prepaid. The Festival will cover return shipping via FedEx, DHL, UPS or US Mail, unless other arrangements are requested.

In case of loss or damage during the festival, the responsibility of the Festival is limited to the costs of repair or replacement of the print only.

Media are insured for up to $100 per entry when shipped out. While all entries are packaged with extreme care, the Festival is not responsible for loss or damage to prints in transit.