January 13, 2010

CREATIVE ENERGY UNCENSORED: 72 HOURS TO MAKE A MARK!

Ottawa's Independent Filmmakers Gear Up for the Capital's Second 72-Hour Film Challenge

Ottawa, ON - This winter, Ottawa film buffs can chase away the blahs with an exciting new challenge presented by the boxcART Film Festival.  Aiming to repeat the success of last autumn's inaugural event, Ottawa's second 72-Hour Film Challenge will kick off this month with a new theme, new teams and new talent! 

The challengers will be meeting at the Lieutenant's Pump pub at 6:30 pm on January 21st, where each team of filmmakers will receive an envelope containing the top-secret criteria.  72 hours later, they must come back with a completed short film incorporating the themes enclosed.  The resulting short films will be showcased at the "Eat My Shorts" film screening at the Lieutenant's Pump on February 10th.  The winning film will be announced on the night, with the victorious team taking home a $250 cash prize. 

Judging will focus on creativity and innovation rather than technical skill, so filmmakers of all skill levels are welcome and celebrated.  Bursting with raw creative energy, this short but intense project is sure to produce impressive results. "Ottawa has an incredibly talented underground of artistic folks," says organizer Nina Bains. "What we see through the festival spotlight is a stylish, edgy and highly creative subculture that was always there, but just needed the right exposure."

Filmmakers can sign up for the challenge by email, and a representative for the team must register at the Lieutenant's Pump on January 21st.  Each short film must run 5 -15 minutes and may be produced in any medium.  Directors must reside in Ottawa. 

A CBC camera crew will be on site to document the launch of the second 72-hour Film Challenge, and Movieola will be sending a representative from Toronto to check out the films.  One or more selected films will be featured on "What Medias" Channel Zero.

September 20th, 2009

On September 20th, 2009 The boxcART Film Festival will open it's doors to a unique screening of films selected from "The 72 Hour Film Challenge" that took place earlier this summer. Filmmakers received a surprise topic with a 72 hour deadline to complete the 5-15 minute short films. Films were judged on their artistic and creative energy.  A $250 cash prize will be awarded to the winner on the day of the Festival.

Jack Purcell Community Centre

302 Jack Purcell Lane

Room 203

2PM-5PM

Unique in its concept, the The boxcART Film Festival will be first of its kind in Ottawa where filmmakers will have the ability to screen their films in a restriction free and unbiased environment.