SFW: Shorts Press Release

Southampton Film Week reached an exciting climax on Sunday 4 November with the screening and awards ceremony for its new short filmmaking competition, SFW: Shorts.

15 films up to 10 minutes in length and representing all styles and genres were shortlisted for the screening enjoyed by the 80 strong audience.  The majority of films were submitted by local filmmakers highlighting once again what a wealth of talent there is in this area.  The competition was open to people of all ages and levels of experience so films came from students and first-time directors through to those enjoying careers in the industry.

The shortlist of films was judged by a panel of experienced filmmakers and aficionados who had the tough job of naming the top three.  Prior to the announcement, however, audience members were asked to vote for their own favourite films and in fact endorsed the judges’ own decision.  In joint 2nd and 3rd were A Hero’s Journey by Riyadh Haque and John McGinty and This Day by Solent University student Sam Moles.  The undisputed winner for both the audience and the judges was 30% by Winchester based artist and filmmaker Anna Cady.  Filmed on location in Sierra Leone this beautifully shot film, with stunning animation from Em Cooper, tells of the campaign for women there to have representation in parliament.  The title relates to the quota which the women seek to achieve.  The film was made for Pathways of Women’s Empowerment with support from Screen South.  Anna was presented with the Michael Fuller Award for Best Film by Tim O’Riordan, one of the judges and 25 years ago a founder of City Eye the Southampton based film organisation which organises Southampton Film Week.

Michael Fuller, who worked as an arts officer at Southampton City and Hampshire County Councils during his career played a significant role in establishing City Eye and remained a great supporter of the company until his death last year.  He also worked to present the City’s Film Festival in the late 80s and 90s so it seemed entirely appropriate to create this award in his name.

This year Southampton Film Week, which was made possible with funding from Creative England, Southampton City Council, Film Hampshire and Southampton Solent University, presented over 40 events and activities across Southampton.  With something for all ages and most tastes it really is a festival for all.  Plans are already underway for next year’s festival and Short Film competition and anyone wishing to be involved can contact City Eye for more information. Visit www.city-eye.co.uk  or www.southamptonfilmweek.com for details of how to make contact.