If you’ve been by the store lately you may have noticed some posters going up for this coming years’ Victoria Film Festival. Last year we provided equipment for the box offices and admin to running of the festival. This year Soho is proud to increase our support of this seminal yearly event as a benefactor and wanting to be even more involved we were thrilled when the idea of sponsoring the FilmCAN competition came up. FilmCAN is a program run by the Victoria Film Festival to encourage elementary and high school students to create short films. We really couldn’t think of anything better than helping to encourage and foster burgeoning creative talents and we’re hopeful that Soho’s donation of an 21.5″ iMac loaded with Final Cut Express will help the winning grade 9 – 12 student pursue their dreams to the utmost. As part of the program students also have access to professional mentors through the Film Festival office to help them create their films.

Not only will the winning grade 8 and under and grade 9 -12 films receive great prizes but they will also be screened at the Festival on the big screen in front of a full audience! (Now you’re asking yourself where was this program when I was in school… I know I am!)

For all the details on the program visit: http://victoriafilmfestival.com/year-round/filmcan.html

For VFF information and dates visit: http://victoriafilmfestival.com/

And most fantastically of all visit http://vimeo.com/groups/filmcan/videos to WATCH SOME OF THE VIDEOS ALREADY SUBMITTED. The level of talent these kids have is absolutely wonderful and it just goes to show that you just need to get out there and do it!

The other important information to know is:

How do I enter?

1. Go to the FilmCAN site.

2. Read and understand the rules

3. Make your ?lm.

4. Upload your ?lm to the FilmCAN site.

5. Tell everyone you know to check out your ?lm and vote.

What if I need help?

1. Simply email mentor@victoria?lmfestival.com. Questions can be about anything film related such as – equipment, editing, or advice on storytelling.

2. Helpful tutorials will be posted on the FilmCAN site.

Dates to Remember:

Dec 15, 2009 – Deadline to upload videos to FilmCAN site

Jan 5, 2010 – Top 5 films in each category go to jury

Jan 7, 2010 – Winners announced at Pre-Festival Bash

Jan 29-Feb 7, 2010 – Winners screened during Victoria Film Festival