LONDON-Postproduction facility Rushes, London, has announced it will sponsor the first Soho Shorts awards, to take place in July 1999 (exact dates to be determined).
Open to young, first-time filmmakers as well as established directors worldwide, the Soho Shorts is the brainchild of Rushes colorist Ben Eagleton, who took his inspiration from a similar event in Sydney, Australia. "The Australian event is a great excuse for film, TV, pop promo and commercials directors to get together with postproduction people and enjoy an event with a very relaxed atmosphere."
The Soho Shorts will have several awards categories, including animation, with prizes donated by Rushes, including free postproduction services and an all-expenses-paid trip to the Cannes International Film Festival.
Rushes managing director Mark Hewitt commented, "Obviously, we aren’t realistically expecting to close Old Compton Street for a whole week while the films are screened. However, we are confident that many of the creative media companies in the area will submit films and that Soho businesses will publicize the event. The films will be screened partly in the street bars, with an awards night. We are hoping the event will become an annual one that really creates a buzz around Soho."
Television and film production companies, as well as film, animation and media colleges will be invited to submit films made since April and between one and 15 minutes in length. Rushes will begin sending out entry forms in early 1999. Those interested in registering or obtaining more information should log onto Rushes’ Web site at www.rushes.co.uk.
