What is the notability guideline for films on Wikipedia?
The notability guidelines for films on Wikipedia states that a film-related topic can have its own article if it has received significant coverage in reliable sources that are independent of the subject. This guideline, specific to the subject of film, 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?
Valid sources for establishing notability for films include independent and reliable sources. Independent sources are those that are not directly associated with the film’s production, such as periodicals or books discussing the film in a larger context. Reliable sources are those with a reputable publication process or authors who are regarded as authoritative in relation to the subject. Examples of insufficient coverage include newspaper listings of screening times, plot summaries without critical commentary, or listings in comprehensive film guides.
Can films that don’t meet the general notability guideline still be included in Wikipedia?
Yes, films that do not meet the general notability guideline may still be included in Wikipedia 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. However, these attributes 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?
For future films, Wikipedia requires that they should not have their own articles until reliable sources confirm the commencement of principal photography. This is because various issues like budget, scripting, and casting can interfere with a project before its intended filming date. Once principal photography has started, sources must be used to confirm it. 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?
Establishing notability for character articles can be challenging due to the need for extensive coverage and commentary from reliable sources. If a film character was adapted from another medium or work, a new article should not be created for the adapted version unless it has received extensive coverage from reliable sources or has made three or more non-cameo appearances, including one in a lead or titular capacity. It is essential to discuss the character’s notability on relevant talk pages before creating an article in the mainspace or moving a draft to the mainspace.
What are the specific notability criteria for incomplete or undistributed films on Wikipedia?
Incomplete or undistributed films should not have their own articles on Wikipedia, unless their production or failure to complete is notable per the notability guidelines. 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.
