Edinburgh Film Festival Signs Nokia

The Edinburgh International Film Festival has secured  a major new partnership with mobile phone provider Nokia, encompassing a new sponsorship deal and an three day festival event – The Nokia Shorts Weekender.

Taking up a new position within the festival programme, The Nokia Shorts Weekender will be Scotland’s largest ever celebration of short film, including a diverse and acclaimed range of shorts programmed by the Edinburgh International Film Festival team.  As the festival celebrates its 65th year at the forefront of the global film industry, the new partnership will also see the launch of a new competition that will allow eight budding filmmakers to have their work screened at EIFF, in front of industry experts from around the globe.

Aspiring directors will be able to submit their idea for a short film at www.vimeo.com/nokia on a subject of their choice. The creators of eight of the best submissions will be awarded a budget of $5000 and two Nokia N8 smartphones on which to make their film, and the results will be shown at a special EIFF screening – with one winner securing a $10,000 overall prize.

The Nokia Shorts Weekender will build on the Edinburgh International Film Festival’s commitment to providing a platform for young film makers, and in 2011 this will also include two special training workshops delivered by BAFTA and leading independent film collective Shooting People, as well as Nokia N8 masterclasses with guest directors. 

Graeme Davies, Head of Commercial Development of the Edinburgh International Film Festival, commented: “We are privileged to welcome Nokia on board for the 65th year of EIFF, to be part of what promises to be a pioneering and exciting time for the festival.  Nokia’s connection with film makes it a really natural partnership, and the Nokia Shorts Weekender will add a dynamic, exciting element for local people, enthusiasts and international visitors alike.”

Steven Overman, Vice President for Marketing Creation Nokia added: “Nokia Shorts is an international competition that will provide talented film-makers with an opportunity to share their creativity with the world. We want to help nurture undiscovered artists and increase their opportunities within the film industry. We’re very excited to see how the boundaries of filmmaking will be pushed using the Nokia N8 smartphone technology.”