Film Florida announced on March 31 that it is inviting the public to participate as Audience Choice voters in its Student Film Competition. High school and college students from across the state created short films over a ten-day period, using specific props, prompts, and lines of dialogue provided by the organizers.
The competition aims to encourage creativity and collaboration among aspiring filmmakers while giving them an opportunity to showcase their work. All participating films will be available for early viewing on Film Florida’s new streaming platform, Film Florida TV, during a virtual film festival scheduled for April 28. Audience Choice voting is open from March 31 through April 10, allowing viewers not only to select their favorite team but also to beta test the streaming service before its official launch this summer.
According to John Lux, Executive Director of Film Florida, “We’re thrilled to have 30 talented teams participate in the first year of the Film Florida Student Film Competition, we’re excited to showcase their films and celebrate their outstanding work by providing a prize awarded by their peers.” Lux also thanked members and partners from Film Tampa Bay for supporting this initiative.
In addition to the Audience Choice Award determined by voters, a panel of judges will present honors in categories such as Best High School Student Film, Best College Student Film, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Screenplay, and Best Cinematography. The event provides an opportunity for students’ work—highlighting teamwork and creativity—to reach wider audiences through digital platforms.
Audience members can register as voters at https://filmflorida.vhx.tv/challenges or cast votes directly at https://tinyurl.com/FFAudienceChoice. For further information about participation or details regarding the competition’s organization or contact Tyler Martinolich at tmartinolich@visittampabay.com.
Film Florida describes itself as a nonprofit organization run by volunteers representing various sectors within Florida’s screen production industry.
