Samsung and Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) have announced the return of the Samsung Short Film Contest, following phenomenal interest in the competition during its inaugural year. Organisers are calling on all budding filmmakers, art students and anyone with an interest in film to get creative, and enter the contest where one talented winner will have the chance to screen their creation at the Short Film Corner at Cannes Film Festival in 2016.
Rules to enter:
Ten shortlisted entrants will also have the opportunity to produce a short film with Emirati film-maker, Nayla Al Khaja, which will be shown during DIFF 2015.
Passionate filmmakers from across the UAE are invited to submit original film entries of any length, genre or style to showcase their talents to a panel of judges. Ten stand-out entries will then be shortlisted to create their short films with the guidance of Nayla Al Khaja, using the Samsung Galaxy Note5. Those shortlisted will then get the chance to see their films on the big screen at a special screening at DIFF with one lucky winner then going on to showcase their film to an international audience at the Short Film Corner at the 69th Cannes Film Festival.
“DIFF is dedicated to supporting and celebrating aspiring film talent and therefore we are thrilled to renew our collaboration with Samsung on this community initiative. Not only will this stimulate creativity in the arts in the UAE but the contest also provides a platform that will help launch the career of talented individuals. Our winner in 2014, Phillip Rashid, got the chance to showcase his film ‘Happy Birthday’ at the Short Film Corner at Cannes Film Festival to audiences from across the globe. It’s exciting to know another local talent will be discovered this year and given the same opportunity,” said DIFF Managing Director, Shivani Pandya.
“After last year’s success and the numerous inspiring films we received during the submission process, the second edition of Samsung’s Short Film Contest is going live in a few days, and we look forward to meeting and engaging once again with some of UAE’s most creative minds. It is a privilege for us to put our products in the hands of young talented people and empower them to discover new experiences through inspiration and innovation,” added Mr. Marco Vocale Vice President, Samsung Gulf Electronics.
All applicants for the 2015 Samsung Short Film Contest are required to submit their initial film entry to be considered for shortlist from October 1st – 31st on: www.diff.ae/samsung. The 12th edition of the Dubai International Film Festival will run from December 9-16, 2015.