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Film Craft Lions

The Film Craft Lions celebrate on-screen artistry.

Introduction

The history of the Film Craft Lions

The Film Craft Lions were launched in 2010 to celebrate the skill and artistry involved in the various elements of the filmmaking process. They provide a space for entries to be judged and recognised based on the excellence of a specific aspect of the film's production, whether it be direction, cinematography, editing, or other craft disciplines.

Since their introduction, the Film Craft Lions have grown significantly, evolving alongside the expanding complexity of the production and post production process, highlighting the impact of craftsmanship in all areas of filmmaking.

What kind of work can be entered?

Eligible work may include outstanding achievements in areas such as direction, cinematography, editing, sound design, visual effects, animation, and use of music.

The Lion celebrates individual elements of a film's creation, from the smallest detail to the most complex production and post production aspects, ensuring that every facet of filmmaking, from concept to execution, is honoured.

What’s the Jury looking for?

The work should demonstrate technical excellence that enhances the storytelling and emotional impact of the film. It should also show originality, precision, and attention to detail, assessing how each element contributes to the overall narrative and audience experience. The work should push the boundaries of craftsmanship, demonstrating a high level of creativity while elevating the film’s message.

WHOEVER BREATHES, NEEDS THE SEA. | GREANPEACE | TEAM FARNER, ZURICH | BRONZE, FILM CRAFT LIONS | 2024

The Categories

A. Production

B. Post-Production

Eligibility

Work will need to have been executed during the eligibility period of 8 February 2024 - 10 April 2025.

Is there a limit to how many times I can enter?

There is no overall limit to how many times the same piece of work can be entered into Film Craft.

Each execution constitutes one entry.

ASHE VERSUS | MODERNA, INC. | THE YOUTH, CURITIBA | GOLD, FILM CRAFT LIONS | 2024

Previous Winners

The Square Meter

Cannes Lions 2024 Grand Prix HeimatTBWA\ , Berlin / HORNBACH D.I.Y. / Home Improvement Superstores / 2024

To improve brand perception among Germany’s younger generation living with the cost of living crisis, HORNBACH D.I.Y. Home Improvement Superstores created a short film showing how creativity can thrive in cramped spaces. It resulted in a 5% increase in brand preference, making HORNBACH the number one choice in its segment.

THE SQUARE METER | HORNBACH D.I.Y. / HOME IMPROVEMENT SUPERSTORES | HEIMATTBWA\, BERLIN | GRAND PRIX, FILM CRAFT LIONS | 2024

Why the work won

The Film Craft Jury awarded this work the Grand Prix due to its extraordinary attention to detail and technical mastery across various touchpoints. Jury President Prasoon Pandey commended the work for demonstrating that no category, regardless of perceived interest or complexity, is inherently low in potential. He emphasised, "There’s no such thing as a low interest category," highlighting the transformative power of creativity and craftsmanship.

Pandey further remarked, “It is what you make of it. How far are you willing to push it?” His statement reflects the work's ability to elevate its category through meticulous execution, pushing boundaries to deliver a compelling and impactful result.

THE SQUARE METER | HORNBACH D.I.Y. / HOME IMPROVEMENT SUPERSTORES | HEIMATTBWA\, BERLIN | GRAND PRIX, FILM CRAFT LIONS | 2024

Inside the Jury Room: Film Craft Lions

To hear more from the Jury and how they decided on the winning work, check out the video below.

Entries & Judging

What are the judging criteria?

The main criterion considered during judging will be the execution.

What do I need to provide with my entry?

To enter, you’ll need to complete an online entry form, which can be found on the Cannes Lions entry site. In the ‘Written Explanation’ section, you’ll be asked to provide the Jury with everything they need to know about your work.

You’ll also be able to submit optional supporting materials to provide additional context with your entry.

All case films, films, demo films and original content must be subtitled in English.

Detailed information outlining the entry process can be found on A Guide to the Cannes Lions Awards.

What if I don’t have all the details right away?

Don’t worry – you can fill in the form in any order and save your progress at any time while it’s still in the pending stage. However, please only check out when your entry is 100% complete as no changes can be made to your entry once you’ve clicked “Submit” and “Checkout”.

The Written Submission

Here’s the questions you’ll be asked regarding your work.

To start your entry to the Film Craft Lions, go to our Awards page.

The Jury will refer to the written explanation you provide throughout the judging process. Our advice is to provide as much relevant detail as possible.

When answering the following questions keep the main element you’re trying to celebrate in mind (e.g. the storytelling, the strategy, the craft, the use of data).

The bullet points under each question are prompts designed to guide your thinking, based on the factors the jury will be considering when reviewing your work. You might not need to use them all, and that’s totally fine. They’re there to help you consider what’s most important in your work.

Questions

Category Specific Questions

JINDAL STEEL- THE STEEL OF INDIA | JINDAL STEEL AND POWER | EARLY MAN FILM PVT LTD, MUMBAI | SILVER, FILM CRAFT LIONS | 2024

Contact us

Everything you need to know to enter

For more detailed information on how to use the entry site, craft a compelling submission or submit your work we have a whole range of resources.

From Entry Guides that give you a step-by-step overview of the entire process to the Entry Kits that provide all the detailed rules and requirements for each and every category.

We are here to help

As Awards Experts, we know the Lions inside out. We can help with:

  • Sharing the updates to the Awards for 2025
  • Offering best-practice advice on how to craft a compelling entry
  • Discussing your work and relevant categories
  • Scheduling regular catch-ups to answer any questions that arise throughout the entry process.

Whether you have a specific query or would like expert advice, get in touch today.

Email: awards@canneslions.com Helpline: +44 0 20 7046 1155