Port Shorts Film Festival has named its first 12 finalists ahead of the Port Douglas event on October 24.
Eleven of Australia’s finest short films and one special entry from Iran have been chosen from more than 100 entries.
Aussie actor Stephen Curry, Wolf Creek producer Matt Hearn and Cairns’ own screenwriter extraordinaire and ABC Far North radio host Kier Shorey will have the task of choosing a winner for the $5000 Port Shorts Open Filmmaker Award and the $2000 Port Shorts Local Filmmaker Award.
Port Shorts Film Festival director, Alison George, has thanked all of the filmmakers for making the finalist announcement such a tough task.
“To be honest we could’ve chosen another 20 worthy films to screen at the festival which is a tribute to the quality of filmmakers around the country and in Far North Queensland,” she said.
“We can guarantee there will be laughs, there will be tears and you will have a fabulous night of entertainment – all we can say for now is expect the unexpected.
“To have judges of the calibre of Stephen Curry, Matt Hearn and Kier Shorey involved is an indication of the entertainment we’re going to provide and with Port Douglas Catering & Events giving the night the Hollywood treatment with their theming and sumptuous food and wine it’s going to be a night to remember.
“If there’s a more entertaining film festival than enjoying some of the best short films on the planet under the stars in beautiful Port Douglas with Stephen Curry as MC and a delectable food and wine menu then please let me know because I want to go there.”
Open finalists:
Balloon Ride by Evan Hughes
A young boy dreams of escaping with his mother from
his violent father.
The JC Effect by Ashley Davies
At the age of 33, Jay Christenson wakes to find that
nothing is what it seems.
Forever by James Walker
Do you remember everything about the first woman you
were infatuated with? This guy does.
Tough Love by Sioban Tuke
Ruth knows she is stuck in a rut. The only way out is a
good old fashioned dose of tough love.
Bunny New Girl by Natalie van den Dungen
On her first day at a new school, a self conscious young
girl learns that friendship can overcome difference.
At The End by Branden Wittchen
A man down to his last bullet, has reached the point of
giving up when a scream interrupts him.
Slick Timing by Astrid Wells Cooper
Ever wondered who hides your keys so you don’t leave
the house at the wrong time?
Unspoken by Hayden Bevis
Fish and chips was easy until the passing of Nick’s
favourite Fish ‘n’ Chip shop owner.
Sugar Free by Bridget Farmer
Holds a mirror up to life today and takes a light hearted
view of where societal pressure could lead us.
The Last Fortune Cookie by Danielle Hastie
Chris decides to share his fortune cookies with Sue, the
Martian girl, at the bus stop.
Venice by Venitia Taylor
Josh doesn’t understand backpacking, Mum doesn’t
understand Skype.
1-0 by Saman from Iran
A boy is watching a soccer game on TV and gets so
excited he forgets he’s in the middle of a haircut. Oops.