Each season, fresh stories and new works
This year 2026, We are proud to introduce The Prologue Award : The Tale-Teller of Tomorrow—This distinction is presented to a student filmmaker who demonstrates exceptional promise in the craft of visual storytelling. Just as a prologue sets the tone for a great epic, this award recognizes a creator whose early work signals the arrival of a significant new voice in the arts. We celebrate their vision today as they begin the first chapter of what promises to be a legendary career.
Prologue Award Rules & Eligibility
1. Eligibility
* Student Status: Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited college, or university, film program or certificate, or have graduated within the two years of the submission deadline. Proof is required.
* Age Requirement: Open to filmmakers aged 18 and older.
* Origin: While we welcome global perspectives, the applicant must be available (or have a representative available) to be recognized during the festival on March 14, 2026, in Los Angeles.
2. Submission Guidelines
* Format: Submissions must be digital (Vimeo or YouTube links preferred). High-definition (1080p or higher) is required for screening purposes.
* Runtime: Short films, pilots, or experimental works must not exceed 20 minutes in length, including credits.
* Originality: The work must be the original creation of the student. All third-party materials (music, stock footage, etc.) must be properly licensed or fall under Fair Use. The Show & Tale is not responsible for any copyright infringements.
3. Content & Themes
* The "Show & Tale" Spirit: We prioritize stories with a strong narrative "voice" and compelling visual "showmanship."
* Language: Films in languages other than English must include English subtitles.
* Genre: All genres (Drama, Noir, Comedy, Documentary, Animation) are eligible.
4. Judging & Selection
* All entries will be reviewed by The Show & Tale Selection Committee.
* Finalists will be judged based on Narrative Voice, Visual Execution, Technical Promise, and Overall Impact.
* The decision of the judges is final. The Show & Tale reserves the right to not name a winner if submissions do not meet the festival’s artistic standards.
5. Rights & Clearances
* By submitting, you grant The Show & Tale a non-exclusive license to screen the film during the festival on March 14, 2026, and to use clips (up to 30 seconds) for promotional purposes on social media and the festival website.
* The filmmaker retains all ownership and intellectual property rights to their work.
6. Important Dates
* Submissions Open: Immediately
* Deadline for Entry: March 1, 2026]
* Finalist Notification: [Insert Date, e.g., March 7, 2026]
* Award Ceremony: Saturday, March 14, 2026
7. Special Mention, or Priority Interest
The committee has a special interest in works that explore cultural identity, intersectionality, and stylistic genres.
