Moviemaking and the Trail to Eagle
Moviemaking is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Moviemaking Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Moviemaking. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Discuss and demonstrate the following: the proper safe handling of film or video equipment, copyright rules for moviemakers.
- 2
Do ONE of the following: write a screenplay, write a treatment, or storyboard a planned movie.
- 3
Do ONE of the following: produce and direct a movie, or produce and direct a video.
- 4
Review with your counselor what you have done. Discuss what you would change.
- 5
Find out about three career opportunities in moviemaking.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Moviemaking Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Moviemaking, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Moviemaking is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 5 Moviemaking requirements for you.
Moviemaking Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Moviemaking merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Moviemaking is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Moviemaking merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Moviemaking in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Moviemaking merit badge?
Moviemaking is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Moviemaking can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Moviemaking merit badge have?
Moviemaking has 5 main requirements, for 5 items in total.
