Submit a Film

Now accepting submissions for 2012! Simply use our online entry form and mail your films to Jengo's Playhouse.

   

  

Entry Fees

Entry fee is $25. Cucalorus accepts entries on a rolling basis. Submit anytime of the year! Please let us know on your entry form if you have already submitted through Withoutabox.com.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

  1. Completed entry form for each submission.
  2. A DVD in a package that includes:
    • Submission title
    • Entrant's name and contact details
    • One hi-res production photo for publicity
    • The applicable entry fee
    • One inappropriate collage

MAILING ADDRESS

Please send all packages, bribes, toys, baby goats, inappropriate collages and films to:

Jengo's Playhouse

815 Princess Street

Wilmington, NC 28401

 

Exceptions, Payments and Refunds

  1. There are no exceptions to these deadlines or fees, except when we make exceptions!
  2. Please make all fees payable to Cucalorus. Entry fees are non-refundable.
  3. Bribes are welcomed and encouraged.
  4. Cucalorus endorses reckless behavior, generally.

Frequently Asked Questions from Filmmakers

Are you serious about sending in an inappropriate collage with my entry?
Quite. But it's just for good fun. Take your best crack at it. This is what keeps us going in the wee hours of the night. In past years we printed some of our favorite drawings from filmmakers in our program. Maybe we will again this year if you really float our boat!

Should I send my film to Cucalorus?
We encourage all filmmakers to send us their work. Cucalorus does not divide films up into categories or genres, all films are screened by our Programming committee, made up of accomplished filmmakers, industry professionals, artists, the occasional preacher and one socialist realtor. We accept student films, funny films, erotic films, political films, experimental films, fancy big-money films, and backyard duct-tape films. Anything you can put on a dvd, send it in.

Why doesn't Cucalorus give out awards?
Cucalorus say: competition sucks. It often takes hundreds of people to make a film, so why does one guy get the little statue? Ideas shouldn't be owned by people, and people shouldn't be singled out and ordered in a hierarchy. In order to create an open environment, where ideas are exchanged freely, Cucalorus avoids the competitive tension so prevalent at other fests. Laid back and low down rule the day in Cucaloria.

How can I get my film into Cucalorus?
Make a good film. Don't sweat the graphics on your DVD cover. Sweat the story and the camera. Keep making films, and keep sending them in.

Where is Cucalorus?
Cucalorus takes place in historic downtown Wilmington. Most festival events are within walking distance of each other, helping to ward off movie-butt syndrome. Wilmington is home to EUE Screen Gems studios, an unruly lot of indie filmmakers, and a thriving, progressive arts community.

Can my film screen at Jengo's Playhouse?
Absolutely. Send your film to our office (at Jengo's Playhouse) with an official entry form and a note requesting a Jengo's screening.

When should I submit my film?
Cucalorus accepts submissions on a rolling basis. We use our submission base year round in scheduling Jengo's screenings and for our festival line-up. Submit your film as soon as you've finished it. Download whatever entry form Is on our site (even if it has old dates and stuff on it. We live at the beach, where everything's cool all the time.)

Do you accept student films?
Yes. At each festival we present a collection of the best student films from around the world.

Can I submit a 'rough-cut'?
Absolutely. Send your film in and then send in newer versions as you make changes. This happens all the time, just make sure to note that it is a rough cut.

What does 'Works-In-Progress' entail?
The Works-in-Progress Category offers filmmakers at all stages of production an opportunity to showcase their films in a workshop-style setting. Narrative and non-fiction films are eligible to apply. Films focused on social issues and justice are especially encouraged to apply. The workshop is intended to foster dialogue between filmmakers and target audiences, thereby providing critical feedback for moving your project forward. This will be an invaluable opportunity for those hoping to eventually screen their finished film in other notable festivals.

Can I send in a bribe?
Absolutely. A couple of suggestions? Gift certificates to the 'adult' book store and the ABC store.