Memphis, TN – Executive Director Gregory Kallenberg and Film Prize VIPs announced the Top Ten finalists for the inaugural Memphis Film Prize at The Cove (films are listed below). The films will be shown throughout the Memphis Film Prize Festival Weekend August 12-14, 2016, in Memphis, TN at the Malco Studio on the Square. The winner will take home a $10,000 cash grand prize, as well as a chance to compete in the Louisiana Film Prize (which takes place in Shreveport, Louisiana September 29th through October 2nd) to win an additional $50,000. More info at: www.memphisfilmprize.com
“Memphis’ filmmaking talent, spirit and support for the Film Prize has been mind-blowing,” said Gregory Kallenberg, Executive Director of the Film Prize Foundation. “This city is fertile territory for the growth of an indigenous film community, and we’re honored to play a small role in its development. We look forward to Memphis Film Prize Fest and showing our Top Ten to Bluff City!”
Over the last four months, filmmakers have been tasked with making a short film between five and fifteen minutes long. In order to be eligible to win the Memphis Film Prize’s $10,000 cash prize, the filmmakers had to make their film in Shelby County. As a result, Film Prize filmmakers have been using Memphis as a backdrop and local cast and crew to make their projects.
“Getting to watch the creative class of our community rise up and be a big part of something that encourages, nurtures and incentivizes filmmaking makes us very, very proud.” said Dave Merrill, Memphis Film Prize Associate. “The Film Prize is here to serve as a beacon for independent filmmakers from all over the country.”
Throughout the weekend of August 12-14, all 10 films will be shown multiple times, and the grand prize winner will be chosen based on the votes of a panel of film industry judges and the festival audience. The audience and judges are required to see all Top Ten Memphis Film Prize films before they can vote. Finalist filmmakers are encouraged to heavily promote their film and enlist support from friends, family, and the public to heighten their chances of winning.
The Memphis Film Prize passes are currently on sale for $15.00 for a limited time. For those who want the full festival experience, all-access VIP passes are available for $150.00. VIP tickets include all-access with filmmakers and judges in the exclusive VIP Lounge, free food and drinks, preferred seating at all screenings and events, access to special panels, and the exclusive Memphis Film Prize VIP bag. Every VIP ticket purchase supports the inaugural year of the festival with the hopes of enhancing the creative community of the Memphis area. Festival sponsorships are also available.
The Top Ten Films which will compete for the $10,000 cash prize are:
Bluff
Nathan Murphy
Calls from the Unknown
Directed by Edward Valibus
Family Alliance
Directed by Christopher Raines
Final Hit
Directed by Clint Till
He Could’ve Gone Pro
Directed by McGhee Monteith
Journey of the Son
Directed by Jared Callan
Marcus
Directed by Kevin Brooks
On Edge
Directed by Robb Smith
Teeth
Directed by Melissa Sweazy
Tinker
Directed by Glenn Payne
CONTACT: Sabrina Adsit
MEMPHIS FILM PRIZE
(318) 213-6437
sabrina@prize.foundation
Photo features Director McGhee Monteith on the set of “He Should’ve Gone Pro”
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