Films will be judged on originality, creativity, plot, pacing, structure, characters, cinematography and entertainment value, as well as the effectiveness of the filmmaker's message and ability to reach an audience. When directing a film that carries a message, it is important that you have the ability or knowledge of how to convey your message to your audience and that your film is of such a nature that the audience WANTS to see it.

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Originality

• The uniqueness and originality of the premise or story. / La singularidad y originalidad de la premisa o historia.

Creativity

• The effective use of imagination as evidenced in the entry. / El uso efectivo de la imaginación como se evidencia en la entrada.​

Plot 

• The actions, events, conflicts, and turning points that propel the story forward. How the story unfolds.​

Stimulation and structure

• The timing of the action, the development of plot elements, and character development. The framework of the film or

       screenplay. Effective use of three-act, odyssey, linear or non-linear story progression.

​Characters

• Personalities that are distinctive, compelling, multi-layered and unpredictable. A protagonist and antagonist with clear and

      active goals.

​Cinematography

• The quality of cinematography or videography demonstrated in the work. / La calidad de la cinematografía o videografía demostrada en el trabajo.​

Sound Quality

• Is the dialogue clear and not hindered by any noise or musical score? / ¿El diálogo es claro y no se ve obstaculizado por ningún ruido o partitura musical?​

Musical Score

• Is the musical score appropriate for the film and helps tell the story as its own character.​

Entertainment value

• Does the story hold the viewer's or reader's attention? Is it entertaining, engaging or stimulating?​

Dialogue

• Voices that are natural, brief and unique to each character. Use of language that effectively reveals character and moves the story forward. Or, lack of dialogue used is effective.​

Effectiveness of the message

• Does the film clearly represent the message of the charity or cause it represents? Is the charity/cause clearly identified and is the message it sends effective?

Call to action

• Does the film create a desire in the viewer to make a change, spread the message or make a call to action?