The 100 Words Film Festival is dedicated to concise, cinematic storytelling, encouraging filmmakers to focus on the essence of the story they want to tell. Filmmakers are supposed to tell a compelling tale using exactly 100 words. This restriction challenges filmmakers to discard everything that might distract from the heart of the story. Besides, the 100 words concept is supposed to make filmmaking more democratic, prompting filmmakers to produce micro-budget films and making participation in the festival more financially possible.
According to the festival team, screenwriting is the only original process in filmmaking. Directing, acting and everything else are just interpretation of the script. However, many young filmmakers underestimate the fundamental importance of screenwriting. They demonstrate astounding technical skills but their storytelling ability leaves much to be desired. They rely on form rather than on content, which isn’t always the best artistic choice.
That’s why the 100 Words Film Festival has set its 100 words limit. The festival strives to teach up-and-coming filmmakers to tell compelling stories without resorting to long meaningless dialogue. However, young and new filmmakers aren’t its only participants. Established filmmakers submit their films when they want to try something new. There are separate categories for professional filmmakers and student filmmakers.
The first edition of the 100 Words Film Festival was held on November 22, 2014 in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States. The event was a huge success, all 700-plus tickets were sold out. The program featured thirty professional and student films. The jury awarded four awards to the best entries. The nominations were Best Dramatic Film, Best Documentary Film, and Best Student Film (the latter nomination had two winning entries). The audience voted to choose the best film that received the Audience Choice award.
All films screened at the 100 Worlds Film Festival are world premiers made explicitly for this festival. Along with film screenings, the program of the festival includes seminars and meetings with industry professionals.
In 2018, the festival moved to Toronto, Canada at its new sponsor’s invitation.
Photo: 100wordsfilmfestival.com
