Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q.  Is the Film Racing Grand Prix open to filmmakers outside of the United States?

A.  Yes.  The Grand Prix is an international filmmaking competition and is open to filmmakers everywhere.

 

Q.  Do the films have to be in English?

A.  No, but we highly recommend including subtitles since English speaking judges will be viewing the films.

 

Q.  What music can we use in the films?

A.  Any music used in the film must have express written consent in the form of a music release from the owner / composer of the music.  If you have someone composing an original soundtrack for the film, you need their release.  If you have song from a friend’s band, you need their release.  If you have a song from a royalty free program or website, you need to provide paperwork that shows that it is royalty free.  Music releases can be downloaded for each city.

 

Q.  Can a union actor participate in a non-acting role in the film?

A.  Yes, union members may participate in films in their non-designated union roles.  For example, a union actor may participate as a director, editor, writer, etc.. as long as he or she is not performing the film.

 

Q.  Do I need to provide talent releases for extras?  What about people walking by in the background?

A.  You will need to provide talent releases for any person in your film that is recognizable or has a speaking role.  Regarding background shots in public places with many people, use your best judgment but it is usually not required to get a talent release if the person is not recognizable.

 

Q.  Can we use still images in our films that were taken before the competition?

A.  Yes, but you must have the rights to the images you are using.  If you are using an old picture, you will need a talent release for any of the people depicted in the picture.

 

Q.  Do I need to provide a location release if I am shooting in my own apartment?

A.  We require location releases from the owner for all of your interior shots.  If you own the location, then you should sign the location release.  If your landlord owns the building, then he should sign the release.  If you are shooting inside a recognizable location, such as McDonalds, you will also need the release from the owner.

 

Q.  Do I need to provide releases for exterior locations (i.e. city streets, public parks, etc.)?

A.  We don’t require paperwork for exterior locations, but we strongly recommend you research what is legal and illegal by going to your city's governing film office.  For example, you will definitely need a permit if you want to shoot in the middle of a busy street at 3PM.  If you want to shoot handheld footage in a public park, you will probably not need a permit. 

 

Q.  What individual awards are given for the films?

A.  The individual awards include, but are not limited to:  Best Film, Best Direction, Best Writing, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Acting Ensemble, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Original Music Score, Best Sound Design, Best Animation, Best Visual FX, Best Special FX, Best Costume Design, and Best Make-Up.