The cinematic spotlight will shine brighter than ever on young and talented filmmakers from across North Queensland with the launch of Understory High.
Spawned from the Understory Film Festival, this new venture is dedicated exclusively to high school students.
"This new festival is set to stir the creative hearts of emerging filmmakers, and provide a remarkable platform for their artistic expressions," Deputy Mayor Terry James said.
"Understory Film Festival has been a beacon for local, independent, student, emerging, and professional filmmakers, fostering a vibrant creative community.
Understory High expands this legacy, offering a unique avenue for our talented young filmmakers to make their mark on the cinematic landscape."
Understory High welcomes high school students from across North Queensland including Townsville, Cairns, Cape York, the Gulf of Carpentaria, and the Torres Strait Islands to unleash their storytelling magic.
Entry is free, underscoring the festival's commitment to inclusivity and empowering the next generation of cinematic visionaries.
Filmmakers are invited to submit captivating short films under 8 minutes (including credits), with no minimum duration.
To participate, aspiring creators are required to submit their entries through a teacher liaison or head of department at their school.
The festival will culminate in a screening and awards presentation at the Tanks Arts Centre on Friday 6 October, providing a dynamic platform for young filmmakers to shine and be celebrated.
The celebration of North Queensland's cinematic talent continues in November with the climax of the Understory Film Festival.
A cornerstone event in the region's cultural calendar, the annual Understory Film Festival will be held at Munro Martin Parklands on Saturday, 18 November.
As well as an open-air screening, the event includes an awards presentation, with the Best Film and People's Choice Award winners to receive a $2,500 (cash) award.
"Both the Understory Film Festival and Understory High are about giving local creatives the chance to shine and are exclusively open to entries from North Queensland," Cr James said.
"Additionally, award winners from Understory High will be automatically entered into the Understory Film Festival, opening doors to further recognition and opportunities."
For enquiries and submission details, visit www.cairns.qld.gov.au/understory.
