Building on the success of the inaugural 2012 competition, Image Nation Abu Dhabi announced the return of its popular Arab Film Studio (AFS) short film program today, with eligibility for entrants set to widen for 2013, allowing all UAE residents and GCC nationals to take part.

AFS 2013 provides a unique opportunity for aspiring film makers to learn the tools of the trade and get their break in the industry. The new 2013 competition will be opened for entries from 14th October 2012 until the 12th December 2012, with eligible contestants able to enter by uploading a one to three minute short film on Vimeo. Submissions can be filmed in any format, on anything from a mobile phone to an HD camera, and can be in English or Arabic with no subtitles required.

Michael Garin, CEO of Image Nation, commented: “Image Nation is committed to developing Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE as a filmmaking hub, seeking to attract local, regional and international film talent and production. Therefore it was a logical progression, following the success of AFS 2012, to open the competition up to all UAE residents and GCC nationals. We are excited to see the fresh talent that is uncovered during the competition this year.”

Following the initial submission phase, a group of finalists will be selected to take part in a three-month multi-disciplinary training program held in partnership with twofour54 in early 2013, designed to teach contestants the skills needed for a successful career in the industry. Given the geographical scope of the contest, the training program will be distance learning based via webinars, skype, email, and conference calls, with an intensive two week boot camp for all contestants in the UAE in March rounding off the program.

At the conclusion of training, contestants will develop and produce their own short film with the skills they have learnt throughout the course. These films will then be judged to find the best filmmaker and winner of AFS 2013, who will receive a 50,000AED development deal with Image Nation Abu Dhabi.

“Image Nation Abu Dhabi continues to be committed to the development and support of aspiring filmmakers in the UAE, and Arab Film Studio is a key initiative in developing filmmaking talent. The competition provides a unique opportunity for aspiring filmmakers to learn from industry professionals and our trusted partners such as twofour54, who provide best in-class training and the experience to see firsthand what it takes to produce a short film from scripting to screen. We look forward to kicking things off on the 14th October for AFS 2013!,” commented Mohammed Al Otaiba, Head of Image Nation Abu Dhabi.

For more information on entry and competition details, visit www.arabfilmstudio.com, or follow the competition on twitter @ArabFilmStudio or facebook http://www.facebook.com/arabfilmstudio

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