FAQ for FILMMAKERS

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Where do I go if I lose my badge?

Lost Badges cannot be replaced. 

Where do I go if I pre-selected my spot in a film block or event?

When you arrive at the venue, enter the PRIORITY ACCESS LINE. Your Pass will be scanned to check your reservation.

Where do I go to pick up my Badge and Pass?

Depending on which day you arrive will depend on WHERE you will pick up your badge. See below:

THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025 | 6:30 PM-9:00 PM
Asbury Lanes | 209 4th Ave, Asbury Park, NJ

FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 2025
12:00 PM-3:00 PM | Berkeley Hotel Lobby | 1401 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ
6:00 PM-10:00 PM | Gala Reception Asbury Lanes | 209 4th Ave, Asbury Park, NJ

SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 2025
8:00 AM-8:00 PM | Berkeley Hotel Lobby | 1401 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ
10:00 AM-8:00 PM | Cranford Theater | 25 N Ave W, Cranford, NJ 07016

SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2025 | 8:00 AM-3:00 PM
Berkeley Hotel Lobby | 1401 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ

What happens if I think I selected my spot in a venue for a film block or event but didn’t?

When you arrive at the venue, enter the PRIORITY ACCESS LINE. Your Pass will be scanned to check your access. If no pre-selected access is found, please move to the GA LINE and wait to enter.

Are there any networking events during the festival?

Absolutely! Our nightly after-parties and Karaoke event are designed for you to unwind after days packed with panels, events, and film screenings. These informal gatherings are a fantastic opportunity to meet and connect with fellow writers, composers, filmmakers, and other industry professionals. Many groundbreaking collaborations and industry-shaping deals have begun at these late-night events. Whether you are looking to brainstorm, build partnerships, or simply enjoy the evening with like-minded creatives, our after-parties are the perfect place to network.

IS THERE A Q&A FOR FILMMAKERS?

Yes. After each film screening event, there will be a fifteen-minute Q&A session. Filmmakers representing their films will be invited to the front of the audience after the entire block of films to answer questions and engage with our audience. Our screening block host will serve as the moderator. In case the Q&A time runs out and the audience desires more interaction, you will be directed to continue discussions at the filmmaker’s lounge.

IS THERE A PLACE FOR ME TO PUT A POSTER AT THE EVENT?

We are not allowed to put anything on the walls of our host venues. However, many filmmakers bring mounted posters and collapsible easels to place outside their venue before their screening.

IMPORTANT: The Garden State Film Festival does not assume responsibility for your posters. You are responsible for your own items. You must take them down by 5:00 PM on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

ARE WE PERMITTED TO BRING OUR FILM FAMILY ON THE RED CARPET?

Professional photos will be taken at the Friday Night Gala, which will be attended by all GSFF Filmmakers and their Film Families, along with our celebrity honorees.

Additionally, during the Thursday Meet the Filmmakers Preview Event, we invite your entire Film Family to capture memorable moments by posing for photos in front of the step-and-repeat on the red carpet.

PLEASE NOTE: NO UNAUTHORIZED CREWS WILL BE PERMITTED!

IS IT TOO LATE TO ENTER MY FILM?

Sadly, it is too late for this year. Please consider entering your film any time after May 1 when our 2026 Call for Entries opens.

IS IT TOO LATE TO ENTER MY FILM?

No! You have until November 1 to submit your film! 

IS IT TOO LATE TO ENTER THE MOVIE MUSIC COMPETITION?

Sadly it is too late for this year. Our winners will be chosen and put up on this website. The tracks will play between screenings at each venue for all to enjoy. Please consider entering your music any time after May 1 when our 2026 Call for Entries opens.

IS IT TOO LATE TO ENTER THE MOVIE MUSIC COMPETITION?

No! You have until November 1 to submit!