The short films that will liven up your summer!
Due to the recent health crisis that has disrupted the movie industry, UniFrance has decided to add an extra dimension to the 18th edition of the UniFrance Short Film Awards by presenting a wider selection of productions, which will give additional impetus to films that have already attracted attention while also providing an opening for the discovery of new, unreleased films that show promise for success at upcoming international festivals.
The "Summer in French Shorts" initiative
In order to raise the profile and increase the visibility of productions that have not had the opportunity to be viewed at film festivals in recent months, the film selection for the 2020 UniFrance Short Film Awards is richer than ever: 39 titles are presented, including 17 first films and 12 films that have not yet been released, divided into six programs of around two hours. These programs showcase a rich palette of genres, formats, and themes, and include 24 fiction films, 10 animations, two documentaries, and three multi-genre films that reflect the dynamism of current French film production. Fantasy films sit side-by-side with dramas and comedies, with filmmakers often exploring the theme of human interactions and the perceptions we have of ourselves and others—39 stories that illuminate the strange, the poetic, family life, romance, social issues, and much more!
So, for a period of six weeks—from July 8 through August 19—we are offering you the chance to watch the complete lineup of films selected in our Short Film Gallery. All films are accessible for viewing via your login details.
Do you wish to join the Jury of Young Professionals?
Exceptional circumstances call for an innovative initiative: this year, in addition to the prizes to be awarded by the official jury, UniFrance is calling for young industry professionals from France or any other country who are passionate about cinema to join the Jury of Young Professionals. Candidates are invited to submit their applications now, with the jury limited to 15 participants.
Conditions for participation:
1. The participant must not have any connection whatsoever, direct or indirect, with any of the films included in the selection.
2. The participant must be less than 30 years of age.
3. The participant must be currently working in the movie sector.
4. Please submit your applications here no later than July 16, 2020.
According to the number of applications submitted, UniFrance reserves the right to determine the final composition of the Jury of Young Professionals. All selected applicants will receive a confirmation email providing details of the voting procedure.
All selected jury members will be under the obligation to:
1. Watch the 39 films included in the selection.
2. Communicate to us your three favorite films and explain the reasons for your choices.
3. Send us your vote no later than August 19, 2020, at 6:00 p.m. Paris time.
The director of the film that receives the largest number of votes will be announced and presented with their award on September 9 at the Off-Courts Short Film Festival in Trouville.
If you have problems accessing the short films, please get in touch with UniFrance's short film department by sending a mail to: courtmetrage@unifrance.org