Distribution

Distribution is one of the least understood aspects of filmmaking, but where there is tremendous opportunity for a filmmaker to earn revenue on their film.

DCP CALL FOR FILMS

To help make stories by Miami filmmakers theater-ready, Third Horizon is offering DCP creation for up to 25 short films.  If you have a completed short film between 2024-2025, and want it professionally formatted, submit now! 

Deadline to Submit:
Friday, May 2, 2025 at 11:59pm ET

Submission Requirements:

- Filmmaker resides and creates in Miami
- Film duration: up 25 minutes
- Resolution: Minimum 1920x1080 [4k preferred]
- File format: ProRes 422 HQ, .mov (4444 files will not be accepted)
- Frame rate: 24fps or 30fps
- Audio: Audio: 5.1 mix (stereo optional) embedded in .mov
- Subtitle file: SRT (if applicable)
- Color Space: Rec709

Third Horizon DCP
Submission Guidelines

Thank you for your interest in Third Horizon’s DCP Creation Program. To ensure your film is processed smoothly, carefully follow the instructions and technical specifications below. If you have any questions, our team is here to help.

Submission Process
Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Complete the Submission Form

Start by filling out our DCP Submission Form.

This form is essential for us to gather all necessary details about your film.

2. Information You'll Need to Provide:

  • Film Title

  • Director's Name

  • Runtime

  • Aspect Ratio

  • Frame Rate

  • Audio Format (Stereo, 5.1, etc.)

  • Any Additional Notes

3. After You Submit

A member of the Third Horizon team will send you a confirmation email that your film will be selected for DCP creation.

After being contacted, do follow the next steps below to prepare your film:

4. Prepare Your Film Files

Ensure your film meets the technical specifications outlined in the Technical Specifications section.

Verify that your film is the final version, as revisions cannot be accommodated after submission.

5. Sending Your Film

We will send a Google Drive link to collect your submissions. Follow these steps to send your film files:

  • Create a folder in the google drive with this naming structure: FilmTitle_DirectorName.

  • Place all your film files directly into the folder.

  • Ensure all files meet the naming conventions outlined below:

    • FilmTitle_DirectorName_Video

    • FilmTitle_DirectorName_Audio

    • FilmTitle_DirectorName_Subtitles

6. Submit Additional Materials

Along with your film, include:

■ Subtitle file (if applicable).

7. Verify Upload Completion

Once uploaded, double-check that all files are present and named correctly.

8. Email Confirmation

After uploading, send a confirmation email to info@thirdhorizon.net with the subject line: DCP Submission: Film Title.

Include your name, the film title, and a note confirming the upload is complete.

9. Important Notes:

Ensure your files have uploaded successfully.

If you experience any issues, contact us immediately at info@thirdhorizon.net

tech

specs

Video

  • Resolution: Resolution: Minimum 1920x1080 (4k preferred).

  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9, 1.85:1, or 2.39:1 (with letterboxing if needed).

  • File Format: ProRes 422 HQ, .mov (4444 files will not be accepted).

  • Frame Rate: 24fps or 30fps.

  • Bitrate: Minimum 50 Mbps.

  • Color Space: Rec709.

Audio

  • Format: WAV (48kHz/24-bit).

  • Mix: 5.1 or stereo audio embedded in the .mov file.

  • Channel mapping for 5.1: L R C LFE Ls RS

  • Export a separate master audio file in WAV format (48kHz/24-bit).

Subtitles (if applicable)

  • Format: SRT.

  • Language: Clearly indicate the language of the subtitles.

  • Timing: Ensure subtitles are synced to the film.

  • No single line can be longer than 34 characters. Maximum of two lines of subtitling at any one time.

File Naming

  • Use the following format:

    • FilmTitle_DirectorName_Video

    • FilmTitle_DirectorName_Audio

    • FilmTitle_DirectorName_Subtitles

Q: Can I submit a rough cut?

A: No, only final films are accepted. Ensure your film is the final version before submission.

Q: What happens if my film doesn’t meet the technical specifications?

A: Films that fail to meet the specs cannot be processed into a DCP. If your film does not meet the specifications, we will notify you to make adjustments. The adjustments must be made within 24 hrs of notification.

Q: Will I receive confirmation of my submission?

A: Yes, you will receive a confirmation email once your submission is reviewed.

Q: Can I request changes after the DCP is created?

A: Unfortunately, once a DCP is made, changes cannot be accommodated.

Q: Is there a fee for the DCP creation?

A: No, this program provides DCP creation at no cost for up to 25 films.

Q: What aspect ratio will the DCPs be made in?

A: DCPs will be made in either a flat or scope aspect ratio of: 

  • 4K Flat (1.85) 3996 x 2160

  • 4K Scope (2.39) 4096 x 1716

  • 2K Flat (1.85) 1998 x 1080

  • 2K Scope (2.39) 2048 x 858