Samsung Gulf Electronics and The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) have announced the opening of entries for the third annual ‘Samsung SHRT Film Cntest’.

The contest aims to give art students and filmmakers the platform, the knowledge and the technology to bring their stories to the big screen. Ten shortlisted entrants will have the opportunity to make a short film under the guidance of acclaimed director Majid Al Ansari.

These films will then be screened as part of a dedicated segment at DIFF that is in its 13th year, taking place from December 7 – 14, 2016 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.

Equipping contestants with the latest camera technology, Samsung will be providing shortlisted candidates with the Galaxy Note7 that is ready to record high quality videos, enabling a cinema-like experience including brighter colours and a deeper black. The device also features expandable storage that supports a microSD card up to 256GB, capable of recording hours of high-quality video. The advanced camera leverages dual-pixel sensor technology, wide aperture and fast auto focus that work together to create sharp and beautiful photos and videos even in low-light environments.

The winning filmmaker would have a chance to travel to France to screen his or her film at the Short Film Corner within Cannes Film Festival, which runs from May 17 to 28 2017 celebrating its 70th anniversary edition.

“We had conceptualised this contest as a platform to identify and nurture creative talent within the UAE. Over the years, with advancements in camera and sound technology, we at Samsung have been supporting such talent not only with the freedom of mobility and professional-quality equipment, but also an opportunity to unleash the full potential of their creativity. Through our association with DIFF, such talent will receive not only expert guidance but also a global platform to demonstrate their work,” said Ali Ahmed, head of brand management, Samsung Gulf Electronics.

Shivani Pandya, DIFF managing director, said: “We are excited to collaborate with Samsung for the third year to recognise, encourage and nurture the next generation of creatives from the UAE. This year’s promising selection of budding filmmakers will have the opportunity to accomplish their ambitions under the guidance of talented mentor Majid Al Ansari, the critically acclaimed director of the thrilling ‘Zinzana’. Competitions such as this are key to helping burgeoning talent release their full potential and flourish in the spotlight. We look forward to this competition and the new talents that may be gracing future editions of DIFF.”

Entries have to be original films of any length, genre or style while telling a compelling story. All applicants for the 2016 Samsung Short Film Contest are required to submit their initial film entry to be considered for shortlist from October 4 to November 7 on www.diff.ae/samsung. - TradeArabia News Service