Optus has launched a new initiative to support local Australian filmmakers with the Connect5 short film competition! If you have a penchant for working behind the camera and bringing your creative ideas to film, vlog, or animation, $10,000 cash and a trip to Singapore is up for grabs.
Anyone who wants to make a positive change with five minutes of film, you’ll be glad to know that the theme of the Connect5 competition centres on relationships people have with one another, and how lives change for the better and benefit from these connections.
Managing Director of Marketing and Product at Optus, Ben White, is thrilled to bring back the film competition for its second year.
“We believe we can help kick-start the careers of aspiring filmmakers by sharing their work across our platforms and showcasing their talent to our large base of customers who are passionate about great entertainment. Connecting people is at the heart of what we do at Optus, so we look forward to seeing talented filmmakers’ interpretations of ‘Connecting Lives’ and to hearing their stories about how connection fosters love and hope.”
Each submission must be five minutes or less in length and an original piece of work. Judging will commence from the deadline of October 1st, with a panel of industry experts – including writer and filmmaker Genevieve Clay-Smith – set to select two winners to represent Australia at the regional finals in November.
“I’m really excited to be part of this year’s campaign as I know firsthand how hard it can be for filmmakers wanting to get a start in the industry. So, if you’re looking to make a name for yourself in the film industry – whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or you’re shooting your first film on a smartphone, I’d encourage you to get involved with Connect5 and get noticed,” Clay-Smith said.
The Australian filmmakers selected to proceed to the regional finals will each win a $10,000 cash plus a trip to Singapore with a friend for the finals competition, where a further cash prize of USD $30,000 is up for grabs for the overall winner, USD $15,000 for the runner up. The finalists compete with their work against other filmmakers from Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines for the grand prize, as well as the titles in the People’s Choice Competition, where USD $3,000 and USD $2,000 will be awarded to the public-voted winner and runner up, respectively.
Sounds like a pretty sweet deal, yes? We think so – to get involved and to find out more information about the Connect5 competition, visit www.optus.com.au/connect5 – entries are open now through until October 1st!
This is a sponsored article.
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