Sprite launches film contest

Action. Cut. Let’s try that scene one more time.

The Sprite Refreshing Films project is giving students a chance to direct commands in their own production.

The competition is open to students ages 13 through 19.

Students from a select 12 universities nationwide, IU included, may apply for the role of screenwriter or staff intern.

“A contest like this allows budding filmmakers to work in an intensive and professional environment, giving them a taste of the demanding yet rewarding nature of filmmaking,” said Jacob Sherry, a senior double majoring in telecommunications and filmmaking.

From all contest entries, six finalist groups will be chosen, and these finalists’ films will be put on the Sprite Refreshing Films website for members of the public to cast their votes. These six finalists will then be narrowed down to three, from which a panel of industry professionals will choose the final winner.

The winning film will be showcased at a film festival in June 2011.

Sherry said he thinks the incentives of the contest are extremely beneficial to students interested in film.

All scripts written for the contest must be based off the designated theme: Ingenuity takes the unexpected path and is rewarded for it. Screenwriters are encouraged to develop their own individual takes on this guideline.

“Sprite Refreshing Films encompasses what the Sprite brand is about, it sparks creativity among young people and encourages them to take on unique opportunities that they wouldn’t find anywhere else,” said Caren Pasquale Seckler, vice president of Sparkling Non-Colas for Coca-Cola North America in a press release.

Regardless of level of expertise or creativity, Kevin Domar, a senior with an individualized major in film production, said there is one aspect of the contest that is beneficial to all aspiring filmmakers: hands-on interaction.

Domar said getting your hands on the equipment and interacting with a crew are vital skills that will allow applicants to gain experience and find their voice.

The deadline to apply is Nov. 30.