About

MEET OUR
STELLAR JURY

MADDY FREEMAN

Maddy Freeman, a proud graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts, specializes in Film and Television Production with focused minors in Business of Entertainment and Child Mental Health Studies. Currently serving as the Assistant to the President at On Location, her professional journey has been diverse, from being a Video Specialist at NYU to directing a narrative film for Hooked. With internships at eminent firms like Imagine Entertainment and hands-on roles across various sets, her cinematic vision combines entertaining plots with universal themes. Beyond her directorial pursuits, Maddy founded Uncharted Productions, bridging creativity with business acumen. Her films have garnered attention at festivals like the Garden State Film Festival, underlining her dedication to the art.

DUSTIN JAMES LEIGHTON

Dustin James Leighton, an acclaimed American Voice Actor and Director of Photography, boasts an impressive career managed by ex-VP of WME and represented by SBV Talent Agency. His distinctive voice has graced commercials for giants like Tresemme and McDonalds, broadcasted on networks such as Fox Sports and VH1, and immortalized in the Transformers Franchise as Autobot Evac. After graduating the ASC Masterclass in 2019, Dustin transitioned into a commercial and narrative DP/Director. His work, notably "Lostless", reflects his fascination with the mind’s transformative power on reality, using captivating visuals to contrast the modern world with dreamlike landscapes. Having rubbed shoulders with industry legends like Steven Spielberg, Dustin offers a rich tapestry of experiences and insights.

JADE SOTO

At just 18, Connecticut-native Jade Soto has danced, modeled, and acted her way into the hearts of many. Sparked by a childhood dream to embody Clara from the Nutcracker ballet, she dove deep into dance, achieving her goal at 11. But ballet was just the curtain-raiser; her true passion lay in character immersion. After a brief pause, Jade's journey with the camera resumed when she ventured into modeling and was subsequently signed by CESD as a commercial model and voice actor. Auditions with renowned names like Nickelodeon and brand collaborations with giants such as Disney mark her nascent journey. Surrounded by a world rich in diverse artistic disciplines, Jade understands the grind of the industry proactively pursuing her dreams by honing her craft through improv, comedy writing, and stand-up.

ARJAN GEBRAAD

A renowned artist and educator, Arjan Gebraad hails from Goeree Overflakkee, embodying a captivating blend of performer, theater maker, training actor, and esteemed teacher. A proud alumnus of the Maastricht Theater Academy, he's enriched the worlds of movement, psychical theatre, and performance art at notable institutions like Fontys, the Maastricht Theater Academy, and Codarts in Rotterdam. His passion has led to collaborations with revered organizations such as Productiehuis Brabant, Zuidelijk Toneel, and Sophiensaele Berlin. Furthermore, his unique specializations in physical (location) theater and his role in the Tilburg Cowboys artist collective make Arjan Gebraad a multifaceted and invaluable asset to the Planet Cinema jury.

KATRINA SYRAN

A multifaceted talent, K-Syran stands out as a singer, songwriter, actress, director, lyricist, and a fervent advocate for women's rights. Trained at RADA & GUILDHALL SCHOOL OF MUSIC & DRAMA, she's collaborated with notable artists like Blue, Sugababes, and StoneBridge. Her track 'Intimacy' was hailed as the anthem for International Women's Day by the UN in the UK, while her self-penned play, Breaking the Silence, earned accolades at Angelina Jolie’s summit. In 2023, she's set to shine in her self-produced film "ELLIDA", based on Ibsen’s "The Lady From The Sea", and will captivate in the UK thriller, "HOUNDED".

GABRIEL WOMACK

A Montana native raised on a horse ranch, Gabriel Womack transitioned from rustic roots to the cinematic spotlight. After attending the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, he initiated his career with "Law and Order: SVU" before making a mark in "Days of Our Lives" in Los Angeles. With a filmography showcasing diverse roles, from villains to comedic performances, his recent accolade includes the Best Feature Screenplay for "Brothers of Babylon" at the 2023 HODU International Film Awards in Chennai, India. Gabriel's commitment to his craft and dedication makes him a distinguished member of the film community.

ZSOLT POZSGAI

Born in Pécs, Hungary in 1960, Zsolt Pozsgai is a celebrated playwright, theatre and film director, and producer. Starting as a young theatre enthusiast, he rose to prominence in Hungarian arts, working with theaters like the Pécs National Theatre and the New Theatre in Budapest. His film "THE DEVOTED" (2018) garnered multiple international awards. Currently, he's the general director of HORATIO FILM Ltd., Budapest, and a frequent jury member at global film festivals. Further details can be found on his Wikipedia page.

WHAT + WHY
PLANET CINEMA?

Planet Cinema is a global film awards competition where the independent filmmaker with the Best Picture of the year, as seen through the discerning eyes of our jury, can win a $1,500 cash prize. All competing filmmakers can also benefit from a professional film review, as well as film awards and nominations accredited by IMDB.

Planet Cinema serves as an ideal platform for independent filmmakers at all stages, be it those starting their career journey or seasoned veterans. If you possess a film project that may not meet the standards of Cannes but still merits recognition, and you're eager for a chance to win a cash prize, then Planet Cinema is the place for you.

For those who have just returned from Cannes, held their world premiere, and are no longer bound by exclusivity agreements, Planet Cinema provides a risk-free environment. Since we don't digitally showcase your film, there's no threat of violating any distribution contracts. Instead, we critically evaluate your work, offering recognition in the form of IMDB-accredited awards and nominations, or a spoiler-free professional review.

Furthermore, if you're awaiting a response from Cannes, why not use the interim to gather early critical feedback from our jury at Planet Cinema? With no digital showcasing involved, there's no downside. Enhance your waiting period with a competition that emphasizes both integrity and passion.

While we may be newer than some established film festivals, we've rapidly found our place in the online film festival world. Established as an antidote to the often distant, slow, and inaccessible nature of traditional film festivals, we champion a fresh and immediate method of celebrating filmmakers' contributions.

Planet Cinema welcomes all genres, a testament to our faith in cinema's universal appeal. We urge filmmakers to innovate, experiment, and move beyond mere storytelling to leave indelible marks on their audiences.

We proudly offer a variety of awards, acknowledging both technical prowess and creative flair in filmmaking. Our nominees and winners can prominently display these notable achievements in various award categories on IMDb.

At the heart of Planet Cinema is the belief that every independent filmmaker is a star and deserves to be celebrated, they are a cosmic traveler on an exciting journey of creation, forever reaching for the stars. We're devoted to furnishing another avenue for recognition and success, making their voyage as exhilarating and rewarding as possible. With the brand's spirit of inclusivity, adventure, and recognition of hard work, Planet Cinema adds a thrilling dimension to the filmmaking journey.

Planet Cinema upholds values like fun, prompt feedback, and mutual celebration of filmmaking prowess. We strive to foster a lively, engaging, and inclusive space where filmmakers can proudly showcase their work without apprehension of encountering a "void of rejection."

Planet Cinema may collect personal information such as name, email address, and film project details during the submission process.

2. Use of Information

Your personal data will be used for communication regarding the competition and to send marketing communications from our partners.
We might use selected film clips or images on our platforms, ensuring copyright rules are observed.

3. Opt-Out

You can opt-out from marketing communications by emailing us at any time.
Every marketing communication will include a link or instruction on how to unsubscribe.

4. Data Protection

Planet Cinema ensures that all personal data is stored securely.
We will not sell, distribute, or lease your personal information to third parties unless we have your permission or are required by law to do so.

5. Contact

For any queries or concerns regarding this privacy policy, please contact us through our official website.

With these rules, regulations, and privacy policy, Planet Cinema aims to provide a transparent and fair platform for all participating filmmakers, celebrating their talent and hard work in the world of cinema.

INCENTIVES

- Receive feedback at lightning speed
- Stand a chance to win a $1,500 cash prize for the Best Picture of the year
- Earn awards and nominations recognized by IMDb
- Benefit from a professional film review
- Some winners get the opportunity to join our esteemed jury panel the following year
- Engage in a film awards competition driven by integrity and passion
- Our website brims with passion, evident in its design and media exposure
- Authenticity is our hallmark; we're transparent and genuine. Visit our jury page to get acquainted with us.
- A single submission ensures your consideration across all award categories

JUDGING CRITERIA

- Technical Value: A benchmark that acknowledges industry standards and the adept use of filmmaking tools. This phase applauds those who masterfully wield the tools at their disposal.

- Artistic/Creative Value: The subsequent stage celebrates filmmakers and storytellers based on their inventive and artful use of available tools.

- Original/Transgressive Value: The final phase salutes those transcending standard filmmaking. We seek innovators who dare to venture beyond, eliciting strong, enduring reactions from their audience. The power of transcendent storytelling.

COMPETITION
RULES

Planet Cinema Online Film Awards Competition Rules and Regulations

1. Eligibility

Planet Cinema is open to filmmakers globally.
Projects should not promote extremist political or religious views.
Projects that defame individuals or organizations will be automatically disqualified.
The submitter must own all copyright rights.

2. Submission

Entrants must submit their films for critical evaluation only. Films will not be showcased digitally.
Selected clips or images might be posted on our digital platforms or associated media outlets, subject to copyright permissions.
We do not release the full film or script under any circumstances.

3. Awards

The Best Picture of the year will receive a $1,500 cash prize.
All competing filmmakers are eligible for a professional film review.
Awards and nominations will be accredited by IMDb.

4. Communication

By entering the competition, you automatically opt-in to receive marketing communications from partner film festivals and film awards competitions.
Opt-out is available by emailing us with a request to unsubscribe.
Withdrawal from these communications can be done at any time.

5. Prize Allocation

If a cash prize winner doesn't come forward within two weeks of being approached, and after two follow-up attempts, the cash prize will be awarded to the 2nd Place runner-up, and so forth.

6. Refund Policy

No refunds will be issued after competition results are announced.

7. Feedback and Conduct

We value sportsmanship and integrity.
Abusive or non-constructive feedback will not be entertained.

8. Judging Criteria

Technical Value: Recognizes standard and proper use of filmmaking tools.
Artistic/Creative Value: Evaluates how filmmaking tools are utilized.
Original/Transgressive Value: Acknowledges filmmakers who innovate, experiment, and create powerful, long-lasting impacts on viewers.

AWARDS

Submission to one category grants you consideration across all award categories

Best Picture
Excellence In Independent Moviemaking Award
Best Feature Film or Screenplay
Best Long Short Film
Best Short Film or Screenplay
Best Micro-Short Film
Best Student Film
Best Experimental Film
Best Queer Film or Script
Best Series or TV Script
Best International Film
Best Low Budget Film
Best Innovative Film (New Media)
Best Emotion Essay

Best Avant-Garde Film
Best Groundbreaking Concept
Best Unique Story
Best Drama
Best Comedy or Musical
Best Action, Sci-Fi or Fantasy
Best Horror or Thriller
Best Directing
Best First-Time Director
Best Young Director
Newcomer Award
Best Original Screenplay
Best Cinematography
Best Ensemble Cast

Best Lead Actor
Best Lead Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Best Supporting Actress
Best Editing + Sound
Best CGI + VFX
Best Original Score
Best Film Trailer
Best Art Direction
Best Makeup + SFX
Best Animated Film
Animation Mastery Award
Best Student Animation
Animation Artistry Award

Best Feature Documentary
Best Short Documentary
Best Debut Documentary
Best Doc Directing
Best Doc Cinematography
Best Doc Editing + Sound
Best Reflection Essay
Best Character Chronicle Documentary
Best Earth Exploration Documentary
Best Music Video
Best Avant-Garde Music Video
Best Original Song
Commercial Visual Mastery Award
Best Original Podcast

REASONS TO TRUST

At Planet Cinema, we're more than just an online film awards competition. We're a community built on trust, transparency, and a genuine commitment to filmmakers of all backgrounds. Here are some compelling reasons why you can put your faith in us:

1. Philosophy Alignment:

Our online film awards competition model is crafted with you in mind. We understand the allure and prestige of big names like Cannes, Venice, and Berlinale. However, we also believe in the power and immediacy of online platforms to give filmmakers timely feedback and recognition. With us, you're not just another name. You're part of a community.

2. Personalized Communication:

Our email marketing is not just a generic message. We address you by your first name and often include a personalized discount code. It's our way of showing we've taken the time to understand and appreciate your project.

3. Transparent Team:

Trust is easier when you know the faces behind the brand. Our online presence proudly showcases our jury team. We aren't hiding; we're here, ready to engage and support.

4. Value-packed Achievements:

Cash prizes that give tangible rewards for your hard work.
IMDb-accredited awards and nominations.
A professional film review service.
Opportunity to be part of our esteemed jury panel the following year.

5. Unquestionable Professionalism:

From a beautifully crafted website to an elegantly designed festival logo, the quality and elegance in the execution of our online film festival stand out.

6. Recognized and Trusted:

Our credibility extends beyond our platform. We have a dedicated Wikipedia page and consistent press coverage.

7. Quality Over Quantity:

Our official jury selection and the films of our previous winners are a testament to our high standards and commitment to excellence.

8. Approachable and Friendly Team:

At the end of the day, we're film enthusiasts just like you. Our team is personable, friendly, and always approachable.

9. Quick Turnarounds:

We understand the anticipation. With us, you experience a shorter wait for outcomes.

10. A Sure-Investment:

We offer sure-investments like professionally written film reviews. With Planet Cinema, you're not just submitting a film; you're making a wise investment in its future.

In Conclusion...
Planet Cinema is not just another festival on your submission list; it's a community, a platform, and a partner in your filmmaking journey. Our commitment to transparency, value, and genuine recognition makes us a trusted choice for filmmakers worldwide. Join us, and let's make cinematic magic together!

MEET OUR ​STELLAR JURY