I apologize in advance for being so blunt but I hate going to Film Festivals that claim to show “Independent Films” that are sub par. Now before you classify me as a film snob let me explain the basic criteria (below) a film should have before it is permitted it should be labeled “Independent”. If it doesn’t meet these criteria then it should be classified as a “Student Film”, “Amateur Film” or “Film in Progress”. This is not meant to insult the hard work put into those projects but be fair to the viewer who has paid had earned monies and time to watch certain films. One or two mistakes shouldn’t eliminate a film as Independent but more then a few should. Now I’ll have my caviar crackers.
(1) Sound Quality- The film sound should be clear and consistent for the viewer unless an effect needs to be established. For example background music and sound effects shouldn’t distract from the dialogue that is occurring.
(2) Decent lighting- The image that the viewer sees on the screen should be clear and color corrected.
(3) Story line and script must allow viewer to escape into the film. If the dialogue or script moves into directions without a rhythm or flow then the viewer will instead be looking at his/her smartphone or watch.
(4) Professional Acting. The characters should deliver lines in a way that actually is believable and not if you were watching a theater performance.