Do all festivals require a DCP?

Most major festivals do. Some smaller events accept ProRes or MP4, but a SMPTE DCP is the safest, most compatible choice.

24 fps is the most common projection rate. If you edited at 23.976, convert properly to 24 fps and recheck sync.

Should I encrypt my DCP?

Encryption is optional. If you encrypt, you must provide KDMs per screen/server with correct time windows. Confirm acceptance with the festival.

How do I deliver my DCP?

Many festivals accept secure digital uploads; others may request a CRU or external drive. Always confirm ingest deadlines and file system requirements.

Film Festival DCP Requirements Explained (Sundance, SXSW, Cannes)

Most major festivals require a Digital Cinema Package (DCP) for theatrical screenings. While individual specs can change each season, this guide explains the typical requirements you’ll encounter—plus practical tips to avoid last-minute issues.

DCP requirements for film festivals infographic

Typical DCP specs: 2K/4K resolution, 24 fps, XYZ color space, WAV audio, optional SMPTE XML subtitles.

Common DCP Standards Across Festivals

Resolution: 2K (2048×1080) or 4K (4096×2160)
Frame Rate: 24 fps is most common (23.976 projects should be converted to true 24)
Color: Source (Rec.709/P3) converted to XYZ color space
Audio: 24-bit WAV at 48 kHz or 96 kHz; Stereo or 5.1 (mapping: L, R, C, LFE, Ls, Rs)
Subtitles: Open (burn-in) or Closed (SMPTE XML)
Packaging: SMPTE DCP (CPL, PKL, ASSETMAP, VOLINDEX, MXF picture/audio)
Naming: ISDCF-style naming recommended for ingest clarity

Festival-Specific Notes (Typical Expectations)

Important: Always verify current specs on each festival’s official site before delivery. Requirements can change year to year.

Festival	Typical Picture Specs	Subtitles	Encryption	Delivery
Sundance	2K or 4K, 24 fps preferred	English subs required for non-English dialogue	Encrypted accepted; coordinate KDM windows	Secure digital delivery or approved drive methods
SXSW	2K/4K accepted; 24 fps common	Subtitles encouraged where applicable	Encrypted optional; confirm server details	Digital upload widely supported; drives also used
Cannes	2K/4K; high QC expectations	English/French subtitle policies apply by section	Encrypted DCPs common; plan KDMs early	Strict delivery procedures—allow extra time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Frame-rate drift: Deliver true 24 fps when required; check audio sync after 23.976→24 conversion.
Subtitle issues: Validate SMPTE XML timing/encoding; proofread text and check safe-title margins.
Channel mapping errors: Confirm SMPTE order (L, R, C, LFE, Ls, Rs) for 5.1.
Legacy Interop: SMPTE DCPs are the norm; use Interop only if the venue specifies it.
KDM windows: Build in rehearsal time and time-zone buffers; generate keys per screen/server certificate.

Submission Checklist

✅ 2K/4K DCP, 24 fps (or festival-approved alternative)
✅ Stereo or 5.1 WAV, 24-bit/48 kHz (or 96 kHz)
✅ Subtitles (burn-in or SMPTE XML) as required
✅ ISDCF-style naming + validation report
✅ Checksums for delivery (MD5/SHA-256)
✅ KDMs (if encrypted): correct certificate + time window + time-zone buffer

Grab the full Festival-Ready DCP Checklist (PDF).

Delivery: Digital vs. Drive

Digital: Secure upload links are widely used; confirm ingest deadlines and file size limits.
Drives: Some venues still request CRU/external drives; confirm file system and labeling.

Make a Festival-Ready DCP Fast

Use our Cloud DCP Rendering Service to generate a compliant DCP with subtitles and optional encryption — then build your DCP and deliver on time.