Rules & FAQs – Golden Trailer Awards

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VIRTUAL ACCEPTANCE SPEECHES: What are the parameters for Show Nominee Acceptance "Speeches" for Virtual?

In lieu of acceptance speeches, we are going to instead request “thanks and credits” for each of your nominated works.

Please email a 15 to 20 second graphic “acceptance” so we can cut to your “thanks and credits” if your work gets the win! We have settled on this as an end graphic for ease and continuity, so you can thank your clients and acknowledge those individuals from the studio who contributed, including your creative team.

All the credits MUST include:
1. Film name
2. Studio name or Logo
3. Agency/Trailer House name of the logo
4. Client Thanks
5. Creative Contributor credits

It is perfectly fine to add VO, music, graphics, SFX, and sound OR just send the approved visual graphic. We will add the VO of the client/studio name and agency if you have not already done so yourselves.

***Please no subtitles with the word trailer or teaser in it. If the trailer has a proper name/title and you want us to include it, we can. We just won’t include Trailer1b. Too generic and redundant– we are The Golden TRAILER Awards, after all!

FORMAT:
1920×1080
Stills should be .PNG

Video should be AppleProRes422 as .MOV
Not APRHQ
Not APR444

When you have complete the file and confirm agency approval, please use the following guide to label:
Nominated_Category_Title of Film_Company Submitting for example:
Best_DRAMA_On_Golden_Pond_Best_Trailer_House_Ever

Send to: krislen@goldentrailer.com
SUBJECT LINE: Acceptance Graphic – Title and Nominated Category

Thank you all so much!
Is there a link to watch the stream of the show?

Yes there will be a log in and link from Looped that you can sign up for to watch the show that will be up soon!
The Show will be streamed Thursday July 22nd, 2021 from Niswonger Performing Arts Center in Greeneville, Tennessee!
If we win, do we get a trophy code for our trophy?

Trophy Codes will start be sent out on July 26th. One code per win and it goes to the company who submitted!

What is up with 2020 and GTA21?

With the devastating effects of the ongoing pandemic, we made the call to push the show back AGAIN as we continue to face FAR too much headwind. After much consideration and weighing the majority input, the best way for us ALL to get through this is to combine 2 years worth of work into one show and celebration in 2021.

There will be a link where you can sign up for the stream on July 22nd!
Best Trailer No Movie is back and it is a complimentary category?

Yes, because of the pandemic, lots of folks have expressed an interest in bringing this category back. People have been working on projects they have put off and finally found some time for, others are looking for work and are applying their craft by cutting together footage from various sources. So, we brought it back. And it is a free category!!
Enter it under “Labor of Love” and you will see it is the only category that comes up.
HAVE FUN! Be yourself! Be creative!

Ideas:
Put together a trailer to raise funds for the film you always wanted to shoot
Cut together a trailer from an old movie in a new way (think of that Shining as a comedy for example)
Cut together a trailer from an old film that needs a fresh look (think Serpico)
What about Summer 2020 Blockbuster, what happens with those trailers?

If you submitted for Summer 2020 Blockbuster category, you will have the option to place that entry in any category you feel is most suitable.

Early Deadline is extended to February 16th, 2021

Early Deadline has been extended to February 16th, 2021.
This extends the same price point everyone who entered in 2020 received until February 16th, 2021.
Regular Deadline is March 19th 2021.

Regular Deadline is March 19th 2021.
Late & Final Deadline is April 17th, 2021

Late & Final FINAL Deadline is April 21st, 2021.
What if I entered in 2020 at those lower entry prices?

The lower entry prices of 2020 will extend through until February 16th, 2021.

Rules for Trailer/TV Spot/Video Game Entries

1. Trailers must be under 4 minutes and 30 seconds long (no exceptions).

2. Creation dates for Trailers/Teasers/TV spots/Video Game Trailers: In order to be eligible, the above mentioned must be created between April 12th, 2019 through April 17th, 2021. That is the creation date of the trailer NOT the film (TV Series or video game). It is the creation date of the asset.

3. In order to be eligible for SUMMER 2021 BLOCKBUSTER which is for a Film RELEASE date for the 2021 Summer Blockbuster Season (which for 2021 is April 30th, 2021 – Sept 6th 2021). The trailer must be made for a film released during this Blockbuster Season 2021.

4. Maximum up-loadable size for trailers is 200MB (please note, the larger the file, the longer the upload for larger files, please be patient if you have a slow connection)

5. Please NO “bars and tone”, NOR “Company Slates” on the front of the trailer. The trailer should begin just after you hit play.

6. Entry Fees are NON-refundable.
Rules for Poster Entries

1. The creation date for posters is between April 12th, 2019 through April 17th, 2021.

2. Except for the BLOCKBUSTER Poster which is for a poster for a Film RELEASE date for the 2021 Summer Blockbuster Season (which for 2021 is April 30th, 2021 – Sept 6th 2021). The trailer must be made for a film released during this Blockbuster Season 2021.

3. Maximum up-loadable size for posters is 35MB (and 200 MB for motion posters)

4. Entry Fees are NON-refundable.
Rules for Foreign Entries

1. In addition to the rules stated above, in order to qualify as a Foreign film, over 50% of the principal photography must have been shot outside the United States, and additionally a minimum of 50% of the funding must come from outside the United States.
Is that really all the rules?

Yes.
But check out the FAQs for questions!
What if I entered Summer Blockbuster 2020 - what will happen to those entries?

If you submitted for Summer 2020 Blockbuster category, you will have the option to place that entry in any category you feel is most suitable.

I forgot my password?

For forgotten passwords, on the welcome page click the button “Login Help” which is to the left of the “Login” button and follow the instructions!
What are the NEW categories for GTA21?

There are 12 new categories for GTA21!
6 New Categories in Digital and Innovative for Feature Films:
*Best Action/Thriller TrailerByte for a Feature Film
*Best Animation TrailerByte for a Feature Film
*Best Comedy/Drama TrailerByte for a Feature Film
*Best Horror/Thriller TrailerByte for a Feature Film
(a TrailerByte is super short form digital content ie: Instas, Grams, Gif, Bytes, Blinks)
*Best BTS/EPK for a feature film (Under 2minutes)
*Best BTS/EPK for a feature film (Over 2minutes)

6 New Categories in Digital and Innovative for TV/Streaming Series:
*Best Action/Thriller TrailerByte for a TV/Streaming Series
*Best Animation TrailerByte for a TV/Streaming Series
*Best Comedy/Drama TrailerByte for a TV/Streaming Series
*Best Horror/Thriller TrailerByte for a TV/Streaming Series
(a TrailerByte is super short form digital content ie: Instas, Grams, Gif, Bytes, Blinks)
*Best BTS/EPK for a TV/Streaming Series (Under 2minutes)
*Best BTS/EPK for a TV/Streaming Series (Over 2minutes)

In Entry Form:
Select: Studio or Independent or Foreign
Then: Digital & Innovative Advertising to see to these categories

And as a reminder from last year, due to overwhelming industry requests, Home Entertainment will now have its own classification with six brand new categories dedicated exclusively to Home Ent and Digital Trailers.

Also we brought back BEST TRAILER NO MOVIE which is for a fund raising trailer or something you were working on as a pet project. THERE IS NO CHARGE TO ENTERING THIS CATEGORY AS IT IS A GREAT PLACE TO SHOWCASE YOUR TALENTS DURING THESE TIMES! Please note, this will be the only category that trailer can enter!
What category gets the most trailer entries?

This changes from year to year, but historically the GTA’s has received the most submissions in the following categories:
Show Categories:
Best Music
Best Teaser
Best Drama
Best Independent

Non-Show Categories:
Best Action TV Spot for a Feature Film
Best Drama TV Spot for a TV Show/Series
Most Original TV Spot for a Feature Film
Best Animation/Family TV Spot for a Feature Film
There are some categories I no longer see for GTA21?

Yes, the following is a list of categories that were removed from the competition in 2019:
*Best Foreign Animation Family Trailer
*Best Foreign Romance Trailer
*Best Pre-Show Theatrical Advertising for a Brand
*Most Innovative Advertising for a Video Game
*Most Innovative Advertising for a Brand/Product
*Best Film Festival Poster
*Best Film Festival Trailer
*Best Trailer for a book or novel
What is the difference between the Best Music and the Best Original Score categories?

The “Best Music” category refers to the use of a pre-existing song or songs in a trailer (i.e. Lorde’s cover of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” used in the “Dracula Untold “Rule” trailer”), whereas “Best Original Score” refers to a song created specifically for the trailer or from the score for the film.
Do you have any advice for a first time entrant?

Whether you are a first time entrant or a GTA veteran … diversify! If you think your trailer has got what it takes … you should diversify and enter the more specialized categories.
Can you explain the Golden Fleece Award?

The Golden Fleece award is a highly prized award. It honors a GREAT trailer for a not so great film. Historically it is one of the categories that receives the most press and is a favorite of trailer creators and fans alike!
What is the Trashiest Trailer?

Another favorite of the press and fans, the Trashiest Trailer is for the trailer that uses an overt amount of gore or sex to sell a film, often becoming “campy”.
Please note that in 2018, Trashiest Trailer, moved to a non-show category.
What constitutes an independent film?

An independent film is one financed outside of the studio system (outside the Majors) ie: A24, Annapurna, Neon
Are films made by the “Mini-majors” considered independents?

Yes, they are considered independents and are eligible to enter as independent films.
Can you explain why there is a Best Independent and a Best Independent (under $1.5Million)?

The Best Independent category has proved so popular (and so excellent) that it split in two.
Best Independent is now … Best Independent and Best Independent (under $1.5Million) to shine a special spotlight on those lower budget gems.
Please note: Best Independent is a Show Category whilst Best Independent (under $1.5Million) is a non-show category.
The (Under $1.5Million) refers to the shooting budget of the film NOT including P&A.
And Best Independent (under $1.5Million) contenders can still enter any and all other categories including Best Independent.
The person who did this last year and is no longer with the company and no one knows his/her login, what should I do?

Register as if you are registering for the first time
Activate the account

Then give us a call [(212) 206-1041] to combine the accounts.
Please note, do not do this at the last minute – with permissions et al. it could take 24-48 hours to combine things so allow time!
What qualifies as a "Foreign" trailer/TV Spot/Poster (asset)?

In order for a trailer/TV Spot/Poster (asset et al) to qualify as “foreign”, over 50% of the FUNDING for The Film must come from outside the United States as well as having over 50% of the principal photography shot outside the United States.
What if I am nominated?

If you are nominated in one of the show categories, you will need to upload an HD version to GTA Credit site in order for it to be edited for the show in 2021. A link will be sent to you along with instructions upon the nominee announcement.

ALL NOMINEES will be asked to provide a still from the film, list of credits, and client names that need to be credited in the GTA21 program book.
When will the GTA21 nominations be announced?

Notifications and a press release will go out end of June 2021.
When we do send in the credits for our nominated spots, how many people can I credit in “Production” credits?

You can credit as many people as you like. As a reference, they will appear this way in the program book. Click here to see last year’s program book for ideas!
I have a series of Character Billboards and/or Motion Billboards?

If you have character billboards and or motion billboards, you should follow 2 rules of thumb:
1. Put them together as one entry and do not enter them individually
2. Show an example of them in their environment – the way they were meant to be seen
Are there categories dedicated to the “Home Entertainment” Market?

Why yes! We are glad you asked. As a matter of fact their are six new categories as of 2019 to serve this ever growing Market for Home Entertainment and Digital Distribution platform releases.

Best Home Ent – Family /Animation
Best Home Ent – Action
Best Home Ent – Comedy
Best Home Ent – Drama
Best Home Ent – Fantasy /Adventure
Best Home Ent – Horror /Thriller
How do I get listed in the Trailer directory? Or how do I change/update my information?

Listing in the GTA directory on the site is and has always been free! If you or your company would like to be listed in the directory, please send your company information including: name of contact person, company phone number, your company URL, and specify which grouping you would like your company listed under: Trailer House, Print/Posters and Graphics (if your company does Title Graphics for films or TV promos). Please contact us and write ‘GTA Directory Listing’ in the subject line.
Are entry fees refundable?

Entry fees are NON-refundable.
If an entry does not meet submission criteria for the specific category into which it was entered, it will be moved to the category for which it is best suited.
If the submission does not meet the criteria for any category, the entry will be disqualified, and no refund will be given.
If an entry is withdrawn by the submitting agency, the submitting company will receive a credit that can be used for future submissions.
**We ask that you please consider carefully, before making your submissions.
What if my question is not answered here?

You can email us with your question at contact us or call us at 212.206.1041. We are here to help you!

Please Note:

If you call and get the voice mail – please LEAVE a detailed message – the phone system will send an email to us with this information and we will get back to you as soon as we can within 24-48 hours!

When will applications for GTA 22 be available online?

The application for the 22nd Annual Golden Trailer Awards (GTA22) will be online November 2021!
What are the DEADLINES for Entry for GTA21?

Early Deadline: February 16th, 2021
Regular Deadline: March 19th, 2021
Late Deadline: April 5th, 2021
Late & Final Deadline: April 17th, 2021
Show Date & Celebration: Summer 2021
What are the specs for entries?

The only specification for entry is that it come in under 200MB (for trailers), the 35MB (for posters), and 200MB (motion posters).
What are the rules for entry?

Click on this link to the rules for entry (a link is also located at the bottom of each page) … GTA21 RULES for ENTRY
What are the prices for entry?

Click on this link to the pricing information page (a link is also located at the bottom of each page)… GTA21 Entry Fees
Why don't I see the 'additional category' pricing on my invoice?

There are two ways (or best practices) for entering and getting the discounted ‘additional category’ price:
1. Upon initial entry, click all the categories that you want to enter at that time. There is no limit here. If you didn’t do that, then you can still …
2. If after entering, you decide to add an additional category, click the “Add to More Categories” button on the Entry Page under Categories Entered.

REMEMBER:
If you start again from the top each time you want to enter the asset into a category, the system will think it is a new entry and not give you the discount pricing and you will end up contacting us at 212.206.1041 .. always here to help!
Does my trailer/teaser/spot have to be shown in a theater to qualify?

A: No. If the trailer/teaser/spot was cut and killed, but you or your company believes this specific trailer/teaser/spot (aka the asset) to be a great spot, then the ‘not-theatrically’ released trailer is still eligible. Talent is King.
I work for a graphic design/trailer editing co. based outside of the US, am I only able to submit in the “FOREIGN” trailer categories? Or can I also submit them in the traditional categories?

As a company outside the US with a feature-length movie, you can submit your trailer in any category appropriate to your genre.

As a ‘foreign’ entry, ALL categories are open to you. Films from the United States are only allowed to compete in the domestic categories. In order for a US film to qualify for a foreign category, 50% of the film would need to have been shot outside the US and 50% of the financing would need to be from outside the United States. Thus, one factor to consider is less competition in Foreign Categories. Same applies to Posters/Print.
What about Netflix (Hulu, Amazon, Starz, HBO etc.) trailers?

If it is a Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, HBO, Hallmark, AMC, IFC or Starz spot for a TV/Streaming series, enter it under “Studio”

Then TV Spot (TV / Streaming Services) and then the appropriate genre/category will populate the space below for you to choose from.

If it is for a Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, HBO, Hallmark or Starz spot for a Feature Length Film, then click the button beside “Studio”

Then the button beside Trailer-Film and then the appropriate genre/category will populate the space below for you to choose from.

When in doubt, please feel to reach out to us: Contact Us
We are a graphics company and we want to submit to Best Motion Title Graphics, but we did not cut the Trailer (TV Spot or Asset) what should we do?

Enter it!! and give credit where credit is due! This subject comes up most often with graphics houses and music houses. Since we don’t require credit information until nomination, we do ask for PR information so be sure to credit the main editing company too when you list your company name.

This is so when the initial Press release goes out, no one is upset or has to call with changes and updates. If you need clarification here, please contact us.
What are the rules for entering Teasers? Do they have to be a specific length?

There are no specific lengths for Teasers. Teasers tend to be any where from :30 to sometimes even :90 in length.
What about Trailers or TV Spots or an entry asset that the client didn’t ask us to finish, Can we submit that?

Yes, if you think the trailer/tv spot/asset has got what it takes but wasn’t the final selection made by the client, you may still submit it. Please be sure to ask your client as well!
How do I enter the category “Best of Show”?

Best of Show is not a category one can enter. Best of Show is determined by an aggregate of the VIP jury’s tabulations cross all genres of the trailers from GTA Show Categories.
Can you submit a Video Game Trailer for the “Best Music” Show category ?

Yes, Video Game Trailers are eligible to compete in the “Best Music” show category and any other category it is eligible/suitable.
TV SPOTS FOR THEATRICAL RELEASES – Do these spots need to air on television or can you submit if spots only aired online?

There is no requirement that the spots need to air on television or online. If the TV spot was cut and killed, but your company feels this particular trailer/spot/asset is fantastic, but it just wasn’t the one that was given the green light, then the unaired trailer is still eligible. Talent is king.
Most Innovative Advertising for a Feature Film – Can this be treated like a campaign with multiple pieces or one piece per entry?

Yes, the category Most Innovative could either be one asset or multiple components. Our entry system allows you to enter up to six.
Best Viral Campaign – How many pieces should you submit as part of a campaign ? How does pricing work, is it a charge per piece or just the one charge?

A campaign in this category could be one asset up or multiple assets, and may include as many supporting documents as you feel the campaign requires to fully convey the effectiveness or the experience. The entry is just the one entry cost, whether it is one asset or multiple assets. If you have multiple video assets, please combine them into one reel / one video when uploading.

Supporting examples: in previous’ years: ‘Zombie Stippers’ was one viral video. The effectiveness of this was self-evident and no further explanation was needed. The ‘Mission Imposible’ experiential campaign consisted of: a video with users participating in the experiential event, photos of collateral and also a write up that spelled out the overall effectiveness of the campaign. Both the above examples are eligible.
Where do I enter my super short form marketing: (Insta, GIF, Byte, Blink)?

To get to the TrailerByte category for your Instas/GIFs/Bytes or Blinks, first select what you are: Studio, Independent, Foreign and then please select Innovative Advertising.
Can you enter both “Show” and “Non-Show” categories?

Yes! And do that – that is part of diversifying!
Can a trailer/spot be entered in both “Foreign” and “Show Categories”?

Yes, a Foreign trailer may enter the “Show Categories”.
Do I have to do all my applications all at once?

No. As a matter of fact you can enter some by the Early deadline and pay for them. Then as you finish up others, enter them and pay as you go along to get the MAXIMUM savings!
How many trailers/posters/tv spots can I enter?

There is no limit to the amount you can submit. Have fun!
Can a single title be entered into more than one category?

Yes. Each submission may be entered into multiple categories. Once you pay the base entry fee to enter the first category, you can enter as many other categories as you wish for a reduced fee. Here are some helpful links:

Pricing
Is there a limit to the number of additional categories I may enter?

There is NOT a limit on the number of additional categories you may enter. Think about different aspects of your entry and enter wherever you think it is applicable. Diversification is a great strategy!

What is the difference between a Trailer Entry and a TV Spot entry?

Trailers are movie previews (originally) for a theatrical audience, but now include online trailers as well. Duration of theatrical trailers is usually 2 to 2 1/2 minutes in length. TV spots are previews that tend to be :30 or :60 seconds and were created for a television audience.

What if I put a trailer in the wrong category? will that disqualify me?

We get it. Mistakes happen. Especially in this ever-changing world where exhibition lines are blurring (theatre, online, cable cutting) and viewing habits are evolving/changing.
If an entrant makes an error in the submission process, our entry coordinators and submissions manager will do their best to catch it and correct it. For example, if an entrant submits a Feature Film asset into a TV Series Category the asset will be moved to the Feature Film Category.

Why are there special categories and prices for low budget entries?

We believe that “talent is king” and independent trailers can compete with the studio trailers, just as independent movies compete with studio movies for box office dollars and eyeballs. But we also want to have a category where the best independents can compete and shine on their own. That is why some categories are strictly reserved for independents yet all categories (with the exception of Summer Blockbuster) are open to independent movie trailers.
The Best Independent category has proved so popular (and so excellent) that in 2016, we split the category in two. Best Independent is now … Best Independent and Best Independent (under $1.5Million) to shine a special spotlight on those lower budget gems.
Please note: Best Independent is a Show Category whilst Best Independent (under $1.5Million) is a non-show category.
Under $1.5Million refers to the shooting budget of the film NOT including P&A.
And Best Independent (under $1.5Million) can still enter any and all other categories including Best Independent.

What about trailers for home video or when a film moves on to its digital platform release, are those accepted?

Yes, brand new in 2019 were six new trailer categories which were exclusively and expressly created to serve the ever growing Home Ent & Digital Distribution Platform market share.
Home Entertainment trailers will now be required to be submitted into the Home Ent categories.

Once I upload my entries and pay for them on-line is there anything I need to send in to the Golden Trailer Awards?

No, we’ve kept the process straight forward and simple and that is all there is to it. Once you upload and pay for your entries on the system, including adding the required PR information (Asset Title, Studio and Trailer House/Agency) – that is all you need to do.

Credits: I don’t have to enter credits until nominations?

That is correct! In an effort to save you all TIME and HEADACHE, we will collect the credits for the nominated trailers/posters/video games/tv spots when the nominations are announced!

Please note: You still must fill out the PR information: Trailer Title (Asset title), Studio, Trailer House (Agency) – this is how the press release goes out and is of the utmost importance for that initial press release!! YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO SKIP OVER THIS STEP!!

What do I put in the Subtitle field?

If there is more than one version of a trailer or TV spot, you will need to include the trailers’ subtitle.
For example:
Film Title: Meet The Parents
Entry Material Subtitle: “Trailer B Family Time”
Please note that if this a show category, this subtitle will not appear in the lower thirds on the screen.

What file types are accepted for trailers?

.mp4, .mov

What is the maximum size files for trailers?

The upload limit is 200 MB maximum.

What files do you accept for posters?

.gif, .jpeg, .jpg, .png

and for motion posters: .mov and .mp4

What is the maximum size for posters?

35 MB maximum for posters and 200 MB maximum for motion posters.

My computer is taking a while to upload my entry?

It depends on your connection. If you have a slow connection it could take a few minutes. Be patient and allow yourself enough time to get all your entries in by the deadline(s).

IF I choose to pay by check, to whom do I make out the check?

Make checks payable to “The Golden Trailer Awards” and enclose a copy of your invoice and mail to:
The Golden Trailer Awards
Attn: Accounts Receivable
110 West End Ave 4F
New York, NY 10023

Do I have to pay by credit card?

No, “CLICK” on the “Invoice Only” and an invoice will be sent to your email address. Print it and make your check payable to the Golden Trailer Awards and mail it to:

The Golden Trailer Awards
Attn: Accounts Receivable
110 West End Ave 4F
New York, NY 10023

What if I need to withdraw an entry?

An entry may be withdrawn from competition, and the submitting entity will receive a credit which can be used for future submissions. Please note: the entry fee is non-refundable so please consider carefully before you submit.

I am entering non-English speaking foreign trailers, should they be subtitled?

Yes, it is not mandatory, but it is HIGHLY recommended.

I am entering a Video Game Trailer how do I classify myself – studio or independent?

If you are an independent video game company, then classify yourselves as “Independent”. If you are one of the large gaming companies (ie. EA (Electronic Arts), Activision, Sony, Universal et al.) then classify yourself as a “Studio”.

Who can enter the competition?

Anyone can enter: Producers, Directors, Filmmakers, Trailer Houses, Music Houses, Graphics Houses, Ad Agencies, Companies, and Individuals alike, foreign or domestic. If you have a great trailer or poster or viral campaign – ENTER IT! It is not restrictive!

Need help with entering?

if it is a technical question with the entry system, email the help desk at: support@acclaimworks.com

Any and all other questions you can fill our contact us form or call 212.206.1041

We are here to help you! If you get the voice mail – please leave a detailed message – the phone system will send an email to us with this information and we will get back to you as soon as we can but definitely within 24 hours!

Nominee Questions COVID-19 Adjustments Deadlines for Entry Category List Rules for Entry General FAQs Entry FAQs Asset FAQs

Asset FAQs

We are a boutique agency but we cut for the big studios how do we classify ourselves?

You classify your entry based on the entry, not the agency. So if for example you cut a TV spot for ABC, that is a studio and you would click “Studio” and then “TV Spot”. That would NOT be an ‘independent’ entry.

Are films made by the “Mini-majors” considered independents?

Yes, they are considered independents and are eligible to enter as independent films.

Why are there special categories and prices for low budget entries?

We believe that “talent is king” and independent trailers can compete with the studio trailers, just as independent movies compete with studio movies for box office dollars and eyeballs. But we also want to have a category where the best independents can compete and shine on their own. That is why some categories are strictly reserved for independents yet all categories (with the exception of Summer Blockbuster) are open to independent movie trailers.
The Best Independent category has proved so popular (and so excellent) that in 2016, we split the category in two. Best Independent is now … Best Independent and Best Independent (under $1million) to shine a special spotlight on those lower budget gems.

Please note: Best Independent is a Show Category whilst Best Independent (under $1Million) is a non-show category. Under $1Million refers to the shooting budget of the film NOT including P&A.
And Best Independent (under $1Million) can still enter any and all other categories including Best Independent.

Are Netflix, Amazons, Hulu and HBO considered Studio or Indie?

Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, Apple, Showtime, and HBO are considered ‘Studio’.

What about trailers cut for feature length films, made by the streaming services like HBO/Starz/Amazon/Showtime/Netflix/Hulu/Apple but aren’t distributed theatrically?

Trailers/TV spots for Feature Length Films produced by digital distributors HBO/Amazon/Netflix/Hulu/Apple are eligible to compete in Theatrical ‘Trailer-Film’ categories as well as their TV Spots (Feature Film).

What length do TV spots have to be?

In the new era of digital, there is no specific length. Historically TV spots have been :30 and :60 seconds (sometimes :90, sometimes :15) but now, there is no set length, minimum or maximum.

What qualifies as a TV spot?

TV Spots are traditionally :30 or :60 seconds. TV Trailers can also include :90 spots. The length of time can vary so the suggested lengths should not be considered a hard rule but should moreover serve as a guideline. Nor is there a requirement for the spot to have aired on traditional network television, to be eligible to submit under TV Spot for Feature Film, as many spots were created to air exclusively online or social media.

There are two main category groupings for TV spots. These fall into categories for ‘TV Spots for Feature Films‘ and ‘TV Spots for TV series, streaming series, limited series, web series & mini-series‘.

What are “TrailerBytes”?

In order to encompass ALL the many forms of super short form content and social media for tv series and feature films, ’TV TrailerBytes’ and ‘TrailerBytes’, respectively were created to incorporate ALL of them – so you can enter your Insta, GIFs, blinks, bytes – in this one category.

There are only 2 subcategories for these super short forms …

Best TV TrailerByte (Insta / GIF / bytes / blinks)

Best TrailerByte for a feature length film (Insta / GIF / bytes / blinks)

If you did an insta for a TV series, put it in the first one, if you did a Insta for a feature length film, put it in the second category.

New in GTA21, these categories are further divide into genre under each:
TrailerByte for Feature Films:
*Best Action/Thriller TrailerByte for a Feature Film
*Best Animation TrailerByte for a Feature Film
*Best Comedy/Drama TrailerByte for a Feature Film
*Best Horror/Thriller TrailerByte for a Feature Film

TrailerByte for Streaming Series:
*Best Action/Thriller TrailerByte for a Streaming Series
*Best Animation TrailerByte for a Streaming Series
*Best Comedy/Drama TrailerByte for a Streaming Series
*Best Horror/Thriller TrailerByte for a Streaming Series

And to get to those categories, you will need to select> Innovative Advertising

For ‘Show Categories’ & ‘TV Spots for Feature Films’ – are these only limited to theatrical releases?

In previous years “Show Categories” were dedicated to theatrical releases; however, in this new, evolving distribution environment, where Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, etc. create or acquire feature film movies for distribution, those trailers are also eligible to submit as “Show Categories”.

“TV Spots for Feature Films” are also for all feature length films as well.

Due to the ever increasing and expanding distribution and viewing platforms, the Golden Trailer Awards expanded TV series category into multiple specific and relevant categories for TV series/Miniseries/Web Series/Limited Series, and/or Streaming Series,please check out all the categories under this heading.

Please feel free to contact us if you need clarification on this expansion at 212.206.1041 or contact us.

Why is there a time limit of the length of trailers?

Four minutes and 30 seconds is the maximum industry length for motion picture previews. Although that is the maximum limit imposed by the MPAA, the average length of previews is 2 minutes and 30 seconds (or less). Your trailer can be any length, as long as it does not exceed 4 minutes and 30 seconds.

Should there be “company slates” or “bars and tone” on the trailers?

No. The trailer should begin after you hit play. You can have the MPAA “Green”bands or “Red” bands in front of the trailers – those are fine.