Notability For Films

What is the notability guideline for films on Wikipedia?

According to the notability guidelines for films on Wikipedia, a film-related subject can have its own article if it has received significant coverage in reliable sources that are independent of the subject. This guideline explains the general notability guideline as it applies to film and also takes into consideration other core Wikipedia policies and guidelines as they apply to determining stand-alone articles or stand-alone lists for film.

What types of sources are considered valid for establishing notability for films?

Sources such as periodicals or books can be used to establish notability as long as the reporting is critical and independent of the production itself. Wikipedia generally considers sources to be reliable is they have a reputation for editorial integrity and staff writers who are regarded as authoritative on the subject matter. Newspaper listings of screening times, plot summaries without critical commentary, or listings in comprehensive film guides don’t count towards establishing notability. 

Can films that don’t meet the general notability guideline still be included in Wikipedia?

Yes, if they possess certain attributes that indicate their notability, such as receiving a major award, being historically notable, or representing a unique accomplishment in cinema. But these attributes still must be supported by reliable sources to establish the film’s notability.

Are there specific notability guidelines for different categories of films?

While the general notability guideline applies to most film-related topics, there may be specific criteria for certain categories or subtopics within the main topic of films. For example, character articles should follow the recommendations at WP:GNG and WP:NFICT before being created. Additionally, future films, incomplete films, and undistributed films have their own set of guidelines to determine their notability on Wikipedia.

What are the specific notability criteria for future films on Wikipedia?

Because various issues like budget, scripting, and casting can interfere with a project before its intended filming date, Wikipedia requires that future films should not have their own articles until reliable sources confirm the commencement of principal photography. For animated films, reliable sources must confirm that the film is out of the pre-production process and final animation frames are actively being drawn or rendered.

What are some common challenges in establishing notability for character articles?

If a film character was adapted from another medium or work, a new article should only be created for the adapted version it it’s received extensive coverage from reliable sources or has made three or more non-cameo appearances (one of which has to be as a lead or title character). Discussion about the character’s notability on relevant talk pages should take place before an article is created. 

What are the specific notability criteria for incomplete or undistributed films on Wikipedia?

Unless their production or failure to complete is notable per the notability guidelines, incomplete or undistributed films should not have their own articles on Wikipedia, . This means that the film’s production or failure must have received significant coverage in reliable sources that are independent of the subject. If the film’s production or failure is deemed notable, an article can be created to discuss the circumstances surrounding the film’s incomplete or undistributed status.

How can WhiteHatWiki help?

We are an agency that specializes in “white hat” consulting in “conflict of interest” (COI) situations. Proposing a new page, or updates to an existing page about you, your company, family, friends, clients, employers, your financial interests and other external relationships constitutes a COI. Public disclosure of the COI is mandatory; and direct publishing or editing of pages is not allowed. WHW can work with qualified clients to create a draft or proposal that will abide by Wikipedia’s labyrinth of policies to the satisfaction of Wikipedia’s tough, independent reviewers. Contact Us.