Film Florida announced on March 31 that it is seeking Audience Choice voters for its Student Film Competition, which features short films created by high school and college students across the state. The organization said participants had ten days to produce Florida-based short films using a required prop, a randomized prompt, and a specific line of dialogue.
The initiative aims to engage the public in supporting aspiring filmmakers while also offering early access to Film Florida’s new streaming platform, Film Florida TV. Audience Choice voting is open from March 31 through April 10. Voters will have the opportunity to preview all student films before the official virtual festival on April 28 and help select one team for the Audience Choice Award.
According to John Lux, Executive Director of Film Florida, “We’re thrilled to have 30 talented teams participate in the first year of the Film Florida Student Film Competition, we’re excited to showcase their films and celebrate their outstanding work by providing a prize awarded by their peers.” Lux also acknowledged support from members and partners at Film Tampa Bay.
The competition includes eleven awards in total. In addition to the Audience Choice Award determined by public vote, a panel of judges will recognize achievements such as Best High School Student Film, Best College Student Film, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Screenplay, and Best Cinematography. Honors will be presented separately for high school and college categories.
Film Florida TV is free for users who wish to join as beta testers ahead of its official launch this summer. The platform plans to host curated content from filmmakers statewide with these student productions being among its first featured works.
Audience members interested in participating can become an Audience Choice voter or find more information about voting at https://filmflorida.vhx.tv/challenges or directly cast votes at https://tinyurl.com/FFAudienceChoice.
