Short is in

Makers of short films are getting support from TV channels, and phone firms too.

Here is something to cheer for budding short film-makers. Filmy, a channel from the Sahara stable, will give airtime to such films as part of its recently announced "India's Best Short Film" contest.

"With this contest we are trying to bridge the gap between the film industry and youngsters wanting to make films," says Sailesh Kapoor, head, (marketing and content), Filmy. "We want to provide a platform to youngsters who want a break in the film industry," he adds.

It has invited young film-makers to submit their films by June 15, 2006. The entries received will be shortlisted by a jury comprising technicians and directors from the Indian television and film industry. As part of the contest, nearly 80-100 short films will be aired on the channel.

Filmy is not alone, or the first, to give amateurs a chance to make their dream film. Discovery and Nokia had a successful launch last year when they announced a worldwide "Mobile FilmMakers Hunt".

The contest encouraged people to shoot videos and photos on their mobile phones for the contest. Over 600 entries were from India alone and two Indians were even selected to go to Singapore as a part of this worldwide contest.

Raja Padia, a Mumbaite who made it to the semi-finals of the contest says: "There are so many people in this country who want to make films but don't know how to move forward. Having such contests is a good idea."

Encouraged by the response to last year's contest, Discovery and Nokia have announced a similar contest this year too that aims to bring latent talent to light.

Says Rajiv Bakshi, associate director (marketing and communications), Discovery Networks India: "Our initiative encourages people to bring to life their unique visions and perspectives, and showcase their films on a different platform."

What is the booty for people like Padia who are keen to make films? While the MobileFilm contest gives the winner a chance to walk away with a grand prize of $10,000 and a three-month stint with Discovery Networks Asia in Singapore, Filmy has eschewed cash rewards for a different strategy.

"We will promote the films heavily on our channel and even profile the selected participants. We will tie up with leading multiplexes to showcase some of the promising films," says Sailesh, adding: "We will give the winner a foothold in the industry."

Filmy might sign a contract with the winner and produce a film too but they aren't promising anything right now.

Ashutosh, business head, Filmy says: "This contest will be effective in developing emerging film-making talent. We would strongly advise people to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make it big." Whether you pick up a mobile phone or a handycam to avail the opportunity depends entirely on you.

For information on Discovery/Nokia MobileFilm contest visit: www.mobifilms.net
on Filmy Short Film hunt: filmi@myfilmi.com