A jury of film experts has chosen the ten finalists for the second annual Short Film contest sponsored by the Martha’s Vineyard International Film Festival. Festival director, and Martha’s Vineyard Film Society founder, Richard Paradise says over 200 entries were submitted this year to the contest whose 2010 winner “GOD OF LOVE” went on to win the 2011 Academy Award® for Best Live Action Short. nnThis year’s ten finalists include shorts from Iran, the Czech Republic, Spain, Bulgaria, Australia, Norway, and the United Kingdom; three by US filmmakers also made the final cut. nnThe finalists include: nn“Graffitiger,” a Czech film that was also a finalist for the Best Foreign Student Film at the 2011 Academy Awards®;n“High Maintenance,” by writer/director Shawn Wines, about an ordinary guy just trying to make babies with his wife…until his mother-in-law shows up;n“My Tired Father,” a film about family dynamics in Bulgaria that features a charming and talented child actress;n“The Telegram Man,” an Australian production also chosen as the Best International Film at this year’s GI Film Festival in Washington DC.n“The Miserables,” includes among its many accolades a nomination for best student foreign film at this year’s academy awards. n“Words,” from India-born Anup Bhandari, employs American Sign Language and won Best Short at the 2011 Toronto International Deaf Films & Arts Festival.nnThis is a cash prize of $500 for the maker of the winning film, which will be announced the evening of Friday, September 9, following a showcase screening of all the finalists. The winning film will also screen on Closing Night. nnThe winning short film will be chosen by an expert panel of judges comprised of Diana Barrett, founder and president of The Fledgling Fund; Andrew Mer, VP of Content Partnerships for SnagFilms; and Tim Miller, Cape Cod Times entertainment editor. The fourth and final judge is Luke Matheny, whose “God of Love” won the 2010 Short Film competition. Mr. Matheny’s short went on to win an Academy Award in 2011. nnNaturally, the question on the minds of this year’s film fest–goers is: Could Oscar® Gold Strike Again?nnFor all details on the Short Film competition, and all the screenings and events of the 6th annual Martha’s Vineyard International Film Festival, see www.mvfilmfest.com.nn
nnAbout Martha’s Vineyard International Film FestivalnThe Combining the laidback beach style of the island of Martha’s Vineyard with the buzz and excitement of festival celebrating films from across the globe – The Martha’s Vineyard International Film Festival (www.mvfilmfest.com) is an amazing experience not to be missed.nnFour days filled with the best feature and short films from top-notch festivals such as Sundance, Berlin and Cannes (with a few undiscovered gems thrown in!), great evening events, provocative forums and live world music – all within the ‘Walking Festival District’. And don’t forget – Martha’s Vineyard has some of the most beautiful beaches in America.nnThe recurring theme of the annual Martha’s Vineyard International Film Festival is “Other Places;” the festival’s purpose is to encourage attendees to think broadly (about how huge the world of film is) and deeply (about the universal concerns and desires that unite all people). About 90% of all film selections are non-US productions, helping to fulfill the festival mission of promoting cross-cultural understanding through film.nnThe International Film Festival is produced by the Martha’s Vineyard Film Society. Established in February 2002 by Richard Paradise, the Martha’s Vineyard Film Society, Inc. (www.mvfilmsociety.com) is a member-funded 501 (c)(3) non-profit arts organization dedicated to screening the best in independent films, movie classics, documentaries, and world cinema for diverse audiences of all ages throughout the calendar year.Richard Paradise Brenda Horrigan Martha’s Vineyard International Film Festival Cell: 508-774-8292 [Alt Phone: 508-274-3068] Contact Richard via email
ABC Fine Wine and Spirits Embraces Dry January With Cheeky New Ad Campaign
Bacon & Eggs, the creative shop known for its witty, imaginative and disruptive advertising, has created an innovative campaign for ABC Fine Wine and Spirits that playfully tackles the Dry January's impact on its business head-on. Through the campaign, Florida's largest family-owned wine and spirits retailer proudly proclaims its support for Dry January even as it shares its extensive selection of wines, spirits, premixed cocktails and beers found within 127 stores across the state. In the campaign's signature spot, ABC Fine Wine and Spirits cheekily announces its enthusiastic support for Dry January, then proceeds to describe its tantalizing array of velvety cabernets, perfectly frosted IPAs, and smooth whiskeys — all while insisting, of course, that viewers "definitely shouldn't" indulge in these libations during the month. "Most alcohol retailers either push non-alcoholic alternatives or go quiet during Dry January," explains Kia Zomorrodi, founder and chief creative officer of Bacon & Eggs. "We wanted to flip the script and create something that would resonate with both those participating in Dry January and those who aren't. The campaign's reverse psychology approach lets ABC own the conversation while showcasing its impressive selection in an entertaining way." The campaign arrives as ABC Fine Wine and Spirits aims to maintain brand engagement during a traditionally quiet period for alcohol sales. "This campaign perfectly captures our brand personality while acknowledging the reality of Dry... Read More