film
Submission Guidelines for the Identity Theory Film Section
Important information for writers contributing film reviews to our publication
Please format the headings of your reviews accordingly:
* Title of your review – include a creative title that incorporates the film title. A good bet is a title such as “Hell in the Heartland: Boys Don’t Cry” – or reversing the catchphrase and title if that works better – or, whatever else works
* Your byline
* MPAA rating – or “unrated”
* Basic credits list – Directed by... Starring…, etc. – get this from the film or press materials provided. Need director, writer, producer, and actors
* Running time – time the movie if one is not provided
* Production or distribution company – for most indies it's a production company
* Year of copyright
* Official website for movie – we will often include the film website for readers – if you cannot locate one, then provide an e-mail address contact for the filmmaker in the event that we need images
General guidelines:
We're looking for well thought out film coverage, but not the kind you see in scholarly publications. IDT desires a cross between the popular and academic, voices that can be enjoyed by a variety of educated people and naturally geared toward film buffs. Make your reviews approachable but critical at the same time--avoid academic lingo, and focus on general film terms instead. Check out the reviews written for Bright Lights Film Journal for examples. They do a fantastic job of balancing academic and popular tastes. Also, review the film coverage in the NY Times, especially the work of Manohla Dargis.
Identity Theory film reviews will run 500-1500 words. (We may include longer discussions in the future.)
Other guidelines:
* Titles of films: Please underline all film titles (and books, if mentioned)
* If you are reviewing a DVD, you should pay some attention to the extras included (though your discussion of them may be minimal). Mention the presentation also, if it’s pertinent.
* At the end of your review, include your biography (less than 50 words).
All film-related submissions go to Matthew Sorrento at film@identitytheory.com.
