THE RULES

The Literary Connection

• Your film MUST be based on a book (novel, short story collection, graphic novel, poetry collection – if it's between covers, it counts!)
• Original stories inspired by books are welcome – think "What if The Hungry Caterpillar had superpowers?" or "Harry Potter's summer vacation?"
• Adaptations can be faithful to the source or wildly creative reimaginings.

Creative Freedom Zone

• Any style!  Animation, live-action, stop-motion, mixed media – if you can film it, we want to see it!
• Any genre: comedy, drama, sci-fi, fantasy, documentary style, musical, interpretive dance – unleash your vision!
• Any language! Keep our multilingual tradition alive! Subtitles welcome for accessibility.
• Any equipment!  Phone cameras to professional gear – storytelling trumps technology every time.
• Work must be original and created by the participant and not fully AI created. Edits, brainstorming, and some post production is acceptable, but this should not be an AI only  project! (see Key Rules for Originality below) 

Technical Basics

• Submit as MP4 (preferred format) or MOV file via email to Steven Lamb
• Include a very VERY brief written statement about your book inspiration 
• All participants must be credited appropriately  

Key Rules for Originality

• Originality Requirement: Films must be original student creations. AI cannot generate complete films, scripts, storyboards, dialogue, voiceovers, or video clips—students must do the bulk of the creative work.
• Allowed AI Use: Students may use AI tools for limited, supportive tasks such as brainstorming, editing (color correction, stabilization, audio cleanup), and creating minor non-central assets like background textures or sound effects.
• Integrity Clause: Participants may be asked to document their creative process and disclose any AI tools used to verify originality.

Awards Will Be Given for:

• Best Overall for each language program
• Audience Choice - Voted on by the ISDenver Community via the Shorts Website

And more!

Picture this: You walk the red carpet as photographers capture your moment. The lights dim, the audience hushes, and YOUR film lights up the big screen. Applause erupts. Your name is called for an award. This isn't just a school project – this is YOUR HOLLYWOOD MOMENT!

What to expect:

• Red carpet photo opportunities
• Big screen premiere of winning films
• Live awards ceremony 
• Website where you can view ALL film submissions

PRODUCTION TIPS

• Start with the book: Choose something that speaks to you.  Passion translates to great filmmaking!
• Plan your production: Storyboard your scenes, scout locations, recruit your cast and crew.
• Keep it Simple: The best films often have the simplest concepts executed brilliantly.
• Embrace Collaboration: Partner with friends, siblings, neighbors – filmmaking is a team sport!

RESOURCES & SUPPORT

• Free editing software: iMovie, DaVinci Resolve, OpenShot
• Online resource hub: Links to tutorials, royalty-free music, and inspiration galleries COMING SOON!

HOW TO SUBMIT

• Submit as MP4 or MOV file via email to Steven Lamb
• Include a very VERY brief written statement about your book inspiration 
• All participants must be credited appropriately with your submission

This isn't just about winning awards (though those Golden Dragons are pretty sweet!). This is about:

• Bringing your favorite books to life in a whole new way
• Learning new skills
• Collaborating with friends on something amazing
• Becoming part of Night of the Dragon Tales history