Village Cinemas Australia and Event Cinemas in partnership with Open Channel are proud to announce the launch of its inaugural film competition, Unscene; a short film competition that gives burgeoning Australian filmmakers the opportunity to showcase their talent.

Village Cinemas will be calling out from July 1st for all emerging filmmakers and students to produce a short film inspired by this year’s theme; young people in the screen industry and the impact on their future by piracy.

For the winner, there is a cash prize of $10,000 and filming equipment up for the taking as well as the opportunity for their film to screen in front of the eyes of a wide audience across Village Cinemas and Event Cinemas pre-show and foyer video walls.

Hive Creative was tasked with the strategic brand development, launch campaign and supporting website for this new and exciting film competition. Danny Curcin, account director for Hive Creative spoke to the advantage of creating a topical film competition: “Unscene provides young film makers an unprecedented opportunity to educate, inspire and voice their opinion on a theme close to their hearts, all while showcasing their craft to millions of people.”

David Buttigieg, creative director at Hive Creative congratulated Village Cinemas: “When most brands are opting for the safety of ‘the usual’, they are not shying away from making more meaningful efforts. Opening up a forum about piracy is testament to this.

“Creatively we knew that if we wanted young film makers to create something that would open the eyes and minds of the audience that we would have to set the bar.” Supported by digital, print and social content, the TVC is an arresting piece of work that is more ‘art than ad’ – an emotional rollercoaster that culminates in a moment of clarity.

Village Cinemas are seeking short films up to five minutes in length that are original, creative and compelling. Any aspiring filmmaker, amateur or student can apply as long as they are over the age of 18.

Village Cinemas general manager marketing and sales, Mohit Bhargava said: “Unscene will enable aspiring filmmakers the opportunity to showcase their talent, create a pathway and kick start their careers. The competition is a catalyst for discovering new Australian talent, while at the same time giving awareness to the consequences of film piracy on the industry.”

Unscene will showcase a selection of shortlisted finalists, chosen by their peers and put before industry experts based upon online voting at unscenefilms.com.au, with the winner being announced at a Gala event in late November.