Sci-Fi London 2008 Film Challenge
Science Fiction Film Festival Challenges Amateur Filmmakers
Think you can make your own science fiction movie? The UK's only dedicated fantasy and sci-fi film festival issues the Sci-Fi London 48 Hour Film Challenge.
The Sci-Fi London 48 Hour Film Challenge is a new innovation from the organisers of the prestigious film festival and will give would-be filmmakers the opportunity to have their creations screened during the festival itself and broadcast online.
Science fiction and fantasy buffs will already be aware of Sci-Fi London, the UK's only dedicated science fiction and fantastic film festival and home of the prestigious Arthur C. Clarke Award for science fiction literature in Britain. The festival has been running since 2002 and has screened London, UK and sometimes world premiers of films including Akira, Slipstream, Avalon, The Mothman Prophecies, The Machinist and 28 Weeks Later.
Make your own Science Fiction Film
This year the festival is also launching the Sci-Fi London 48 Hour Film Challenge, which runs from 5th-7th April 2008. Entrants must register as an individual or team online and then attend a briefing on 5th April where they will be provided with a randomly generated title, a section of dialogue and a prop – all of which must be used in their 5-minute film. They will then have two days to write, shoot, edit and complete the film and return it by Noon on 7th April. Every entry will be screened at the festival and shown online at the festival's website and the competition will be judged by a panel of experts headed by Hollywood legend John Landis and also including cult scream queen Emily Booth. In addition, SCI FI Channel UK will be making a documentary on the competition.
Sci-Fi without the Explosions
Louis Savy, Festival Director said:
“Amateurs, professionals, whoever – we challenge you to make a 5 minute SF film in just 48 hours. It is a tough call, but with the right approach it can be done. Don’t think special effects, explosions, aliens and spaceships – think good story! We know that the UK has a vibrant and smart filmmaking community and we want them to consider movies like Bodysnatchers, Stalker or Primer – all fantastic films with little or no CGI or effects and some amazing ideas..”
Cash Prizes for Science Fiction Films
If the honour and prestige of winning the competition isn't enough, there will also be prizes up for grabs, including a Canon HV30 HiDef Camcorder, an Archos 705 WiFi Media recorder, £250 cash and subscriptions to 'Film & Festivals' and 'Moviescope' magazines.
To register for the competition, visit the Sci-Fi London website.
Sci-Fi London 7 runs from 30th April to 4th May 2008 at the Apollo West End Cinema.
