Cineworld, the UK’s leading cinema chain, has teamed up with national communications charity, Media Trust, to launch “Dream to Screen” – a short film project which aims to discover young filmmaking talent from across the UK and Ireland.
The initiative is being fronted by actor/rapper Ashley Walters (Top Boy), and supported by the Jack Petchey Foundation.
Dame Judi Dench and Dame Helen Mirren, will both be a part of the judging panel.
Open to creatives between 16 and 25 years, “Dream to Screen” is a competition to assist them reach their creative ambitions. Finalists will be mentored through Media Trust’s youth mentoring scheme by industry experts provided by BAFTA. The finalists will also win thousands of pounds worth of industry-standard equipment, contributed by the Jack Petchey Foundation, to produce their films and to use on future projects.
“Dream to Screen is looking to support the next generation of film talent and, as a strong advocate for providing young people with opportunities, this is something I really respect and am proud to be part of. To be mentored by real professionals from the film industry provides these young people with an unparalleled platform to kick-start their career. The theme of the competition is ‘Inspiration’ so I’m really looking forward to discovering what inspires the nation’s young talent and urge any young person with an interest in film to get involved and apply,” said Ashley Walters.
Judge Helen Mirren added: “Dream to Screen is an exciting opportunity for young people to showcase their ideas, creativity and brilliance! The scheme opens doors to aspiring young filmmakers from all walks of life, giving them the chance to pick up tips from industry experts, plus the chance to see their work screened nationwide! I’d encourage budding talent to apply!”
And Judge Judi Dench further explained: “I whole-heartedly support Dream to Screen. When I began my career in 1957, I never went back to my dressing room between scenes but instead stood in the wings and watched how other people worked. I have always found this invaluable and the only way to learn about what we do. This is why mentors and initiatives like this are so very important.”
Wannabe filmmakers are asked to submit a 90-second short film pitch, based on the theme “Inspiration” at www.dreamtoscreen.org between May 7, 2014 and June 16, 2014.
Pitches can be shot on almost any video device, including even mobile phones; and NO previous filmmaking experience is required – anyone with a passion and an idea is encouraged to apply.
Five finalists will be selected by a panel of judges, which include, in addition to Walters, Mirren, and Dench, BAFTA chief executive, Amanda Berry OBE, UK and Ireland Sales Director for 20th Century Fox, Andrew Turner, BAFTA award winning film producer, Damian Jones; Cineworld’s Deputy Head of Film, Andreas Vass and Media Trust’s Creative Media Director & Deputy Chief Executive, Katie Lloyd.
On top of the once-in-a-lifetime experience to work with world-famous filmmakers, and see their film up on the big screens, the winner will receive ongoing support from the competition’s mentors.
“Dream to Screen” is supported by the Jack Petchey Foundation and is part of the Cineworld Foundation initiative, set-up to provide opportunity through film to help local communities and nurture young talent looking to make their way in the film industry.
Good luck to all!
Walters intros the initiative in the video below:
