YouthFilm 2011: Make your Movie

The Northampton Arts Council is excited to present YouthFilm, the fifth annual showcase of cinematic talent from local children and teenagers. The deadline is January 6, 2011 — has been extended to January 17th.

Kicking off their program at the Academy of Music Theatre on February 21, 2011 with the thirteenth annual international children’s film festival KidsBestFest, the week will culminate with a return to the Pioneer Valley area to look at the films and animations created by up and coming local superstars. YouthFilm will give them the opportunity to display their talents on the big screen at the beautiful Academy of Music Theatre.

The Northampton Arts Council is seeking original films produced by youth (18 and under) to showcase at the Academy in February as part of this year’s line-up. Those interested in participating in YouthFilm should send an application and their films to the Northampton Arts Council (nacads@comcast.net) January 6, 2011 January 17, 2011, but send your films early!

Films should be submitted on DVD in .mov or .wmv format and be no longer than 30 minutes. The entry form can be download here: YouthFilm Entry Form. All genres are welcome. The selections from past festivals include claymation shorts about love, horror and octopi, a stop action racing film, a Star Wars Lego extravaganza, and a riveting film noir. YouthFilm brings a new generation of enthusiasm, talent and creativity to the silver screen.

YouthFilm will screen at the Academy of Music Theatre on Saturday, February 26, 2011. Films are run “festival-style” with films suitable for all ages shown earlier in the afternoon and those with mature themes shown later in the day. Admission is $3 (cash only) for adults, and free for those 18 and under. The NAC looks forward to collaborating with the area’s youth to further promote the arts in the community.