CHASHAMA FILM FESTIVAL New York, New York – USA October 22 to 26, 2009
In the Spotlight this week is the 2nd Annual CHASHAMA FILM FESTIVAL (cFF), an intimate event dedicated to cultivating a better understanding of different cultures, taking place in the heart of Manhattan.
After a successful inaugural Festival that showcased 54 films including GARE D’AUSTERLITZ, the Emmy-nominated HOME, and PUSSYFOOT, cFF’s theme for 2009 is “films the world needs to see.” A significant portion of this year’s program will be devoted to films that explore Philosophy, Sociology, and Politics, tackling such topics as social institutions, inequality, ethnocentrism, social action, history, government, and justice.
The top honor at cFF is for the best film made on a budget of $10,000 or less, granting the winner over $1,000 USD in prizes, an article on the Festival’s website, and the chance to direct the commercial spots for cFF 2010. The Best Feature award bears a $1,000 cash prize, and the Festival also honors winning short films, documentaries, and music videos.
UPCOMING DEADLINE July 21, 2009 – Regular Deadline Upgraded projects save $5 off this deadline
MISSION AND OBJECTIVE By screening films that voice diverse opinions and present international views, cFF hopes to move the world one step further from disassociation in the direction of a unified whole. Its goal is to “not only push boundaries, but to erase them.”
MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL Self-declared a “small festival in a big city,” and hailed by alum Dawn Scibilia as “one of the most exciting new film festivals in New York,” cFF gives special consideration to low budget films, and works that may not normally be invited to screen before audiences.
Exhibiting filmmakers are invited to the Opening Night and Closing Night ceremonies, and receive all-access passes to screenings, soirees, panels, and the filmmaker lounge. Filmmakers receive discounted accommodations, and are taken on a river party and tour of NYC with industry pros. Local industry that attended last year’s event include John A. Gallagher (THE DELI), Sylvia Caminer (LOVE N’ DANCING), reps from the Museum of the Moving Image and various NYC film festivals, as well as professors from local universities, film schools, and acting programs. Last year’s theme was “Films that other festivals are afraid to show.”
In their own words: “At this time of widespread economic and political instability, when the world is breathing for change, for unification and for peace, we know our action is essential. Our action is art.” Submit to chashama Film Festival today!
www.chafilmfest.com/submission.html