Film contest seeking entries

For the ninth straight year, the Wyoming Film Office is seeking submissions for the Wyoming Short Film Contest. Filmmakers should submit their videos online at vimeo.com/channels/ThatsWYFilms by April 15. A $25,000 grand prize will be awarded to the winning entry that answers the question, “WY am I here?”

Film Office Representative Colin Stricklin explains the changes to this year’s contest guidelines, “This year, the Wyoming Short Film Contest asks entrants to submit film concepts inspired by the question ‘WY am I here?’ In 2016, entries don’t have to be shot or event set in the state, and it’s our hope that these changes will encourage filmmakers both in Wyoming and beyond its borders to enter,” Sticklin said. “Of course, the $25,000 Grand Prize for use toward the winner’s next shot-in-Wyoming project is a pretty good incentive too.”

Entries will first go through a public voting round. After the public voting has concluded, the 10 best-rated entries will go before a panel of judges. The judging panel, made up of film production, visual arts and industry representatives selects the ultimate winner based on criteria including cinematography, screenplay, acting, sound design, editing and overall production value. These judges will select the grand prize.

The submission period began March 1, and the Grand Prize Winner will be announced May 2.