MEDIA RELEASE: 27 May 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Introducing the Winners of the 2023 Very Short Film Festival:
Celebrating Exceptional Filmmaking and Inspiring Stories
The 2023 Very Short Film Festival, held on 26 May at Spring Bay Mill, Triabunna, Tasmania, was an extraordinary celebration of filmmaking talent and captivating storytelling. Today, we are delighted to announce the winners who have truly showcased their creativity and passion through their exceptional works. The Very Short Film Festival is a platform that welcomes both seasoned filmmakers and newcomers to the craft, offering an opportunity for anyone ready to tell a story. With no limitations on the narrative or the creative approach, filmmakers were encouraged to explore the festival’s signature theme of ‘CHIP’ and create short films within the 2-5 minute duration. The result was an impressive collection of films that pushed boundaries and delighted audiences. In the open category, we applaud the following winners: Winner: Jaimie Conlon & Rishi Le Hunte for their film, ‘Sustenance'(NSW). 2nd Place: Miranda Sharpe for her film, ‘The Universal Struggle’ (NSW). 3rd Place: Alison Stanton-Cook for her film, ‘ROE’ (TAS). Rishi Le Hunte and Jaimie Conlons says; “We’re so elated to have taken home this gorgeous award at the Very Short Film Festival. We’re so glad this film was well received and that we were able to shed light on this terrible injustice. For years, dumpster diving has been cloaked in secrecy and shame due to a cultural barrier and lack of understanding, but it’s clear that the tide is changing. We’re living through uncertain times, and it’s never been more important to start having this conversation about waste.” In the Junior category, which celebrates the talents of filmmakers aged 21 and under, we congratulate the following winners: 1st Place: Dylan Burrows for his film, ‘The Polish Nut’ (15yrs, VIC). 2nd Place: Christopher Mansfield for his film, ‘Left To Cool’ (17yrs, NSW). 3rd Place: Charli Kemper for her film ‘The Good, the Bad, and the Library’ (19yrs, QLD). “I’ve always wanted to tell a family fable that was passed down to my father, then to me… and thought it would be the perfect story to share for this awesome film festival. Seeing my film on a big screen for the first time was an amazing experience! And winning at the VSFF feels surreal, but I’m very grateful for the opportunity”. The calibre of the films in the finalist selection was truly remarkable, reflecting the incredible talent of filmmakers from all across the country. Each film explored unique perspectives, leaving a lasting impact on both the judges and the audience. Renowned Australian actor Essie Davis, who served as a judge for the festival, expressed her excitement, stating; “Being a judge at the Very Short Film Festival is an absolute honour. The abundance of exceptional films made our task truly challenging, pushing us to our limits. It’s an incredible experience to be a part of this journey, playing a role in helping emerging filmmakers discover and amplify their unique voices. I consider it a privilege to contribute to this meaningful endeavour. “ All the finalist films can be viewed on the festival’s website here. The Very Short Film Festival, in its commitment to nurturing emerging voices, offers free entry and a dedicated Junior category for aspiring filmmakers. In addition to recognition and exposure, all finalists receive valuable prizes, including mentorship from industry professionals, cash awards and fully funded trips to attend the festival screening in Tasmania. The festival’s ambassadors and jury, which includes award-winning actress Marta Dusseldorp, renowned Australian film director Justin Kurzel, esteemed actress Essie Davis, and prominent cultural figure Leah Purcell, brought their expertise and discerning eye to the selection process, ensuring a truly remarkable showcase of talent. The Very Short Film Festival is proudly presented by Artology, an organization known for inspiring creativity, in collaboration with Spring Bay Mill, a sustainable events and conference venue in Tasmania.