FilmFreeway
Addressing Fraudulent Film Festivals
FilmFreeway, the largest submission portal, boasts over 7,000 global events. However, it has only removed 42 festivals from its list, a number seen as too low given the number of fraudulent festivals hosted on the platform. So, addressing Fraudulent Film Festivals is not high on their priority list. To report a deceptive festival, visit their website and utilize their Contact Button. You can do this through the online form or support email.
THE FACADE OF LEGITIMACY
Many pseudo-festivals use FilmFreeway as a platform to appear credible, despite lacking proper vetting. While FilmFreeway has impressive policies and procedures, their enforcement seems lacking, raising concerns about their responsibility.
BUILDING TRUST & ACCOUNTABILITY
FilmFreeway says: Our mission is to offer simple, reliable, and trustworthy submissions for filmmakers worldwide. Establishing trust requires them to follow ethical and professional practices. But that is not always the case. Filmmakers must assert their rights and demand respect on all platforms, including FilmFreeway.
EMPOWERING FILMMAKERS TO ACT
Due to the financial interests that drive the festival business, filmmakers often need to raise their voices to be heard. You should Familiarize yourself with FilmFreeway’s Festival Deactivation Policy and use it to advocate for accountability. Remember, you can’t blame or complain if you fail to take action.
UNDERSTANDING FILMFREEWAY’S ROLE
FilmFreeway is a platform connecting filmmakers and festivals, which may limit their complete control over the legitimacy of every listing. Nonetheless, they have policies to combat fraud. If you encounter issues, follow up with FilmFreeway, stressing the urgency and seeking resolution. CONTACT FILM FREEWAY
What Can You Do?
Educate yourself on your rights and how to effect change. Take proactive steps to safeguard the filmmaking community from scams and unethical practices.
1 – INFORM FILMFREEWAY
Take action and inform FilmFreeway about the festival and your misgivings. Whether it is a lack of communication or doubts about screening and reach, if it feels wrong, it probably is. Provide all relevant information and evidence for a thorough investigation, advocating for transparency and safeguards for filmmakers.
2 – LEAVE A REVIEW ON THE FESTIVAL PAGE
When receiving laurels or certificates from a fraudulent festival, resist the pressure to show gratitude. Remember, winning doesn’t necessarily mean it was a reputable festival. Leave an honest review on the film festival’s portal page to share your experience and alert others.
2 – SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Help fellow filmmakers by raising awareness within the filmmaking community about fraudsters. Share your experiences and findings on reputable filmmaking forums, social media platforms, and networking groups. By alerting others, you can protect fellow filmmakers from falling victim to similar scams and contribute to positive changes in the film festival landscape.
4 – REPORT IT TO THE AUTHORITIES
If you suspect criminal behaviour or fraud, you should report the matter to the relevant authorities. Why not contact consumer protection agencies or law enforcement to ensure a thorough investigation and appropriate action. Your action can help prevent further scams and protect filmmakers from harm.
You can find all the tell-tale signs of Fraud, Scams & Fakes on the RED FLAGS & WARNING SIGNS page.
WHEN A SCAM FESTIVAL WRITES TO YOU – REPLY
Many of the Scam Festivals contact filmmakers via the FilmFreeway Festival Mailing List. They invited you to submit with a fabulous discount. What you must do is check whether they are legitimate or not. But if you smell a rat, here is a template email/letter you can change, adapt and send to them. APPROACHING A SCAM FESTIVAL.