Nextwave's 2020 competition is now open for entries!
Hey filmmakers,
Australia’s biggest regional youth film competition is now open for entries, with submissions closing September 21st!
Time to start brainstorming, story boarding, scripting, and of course, filming! With tens of thousands of dollars worth of prizes up for grabs, the chance to see your film on the big screen at the Nextwave Youth Film Awards at the Screenwave International Film Festival next January and screened around the country as part of Youth Week next year – it’s time to get creative!
And we’ve just announced this year’s short film competition guidelines – check it out!
Need a rules refresh?
Keep it short and sweet- films must be under 5 minutes
Yes, that includes any introductions or end credits. For all you returning filmmakers – note that this is a minute shorter than previously. Short and sharp!
You must be between the ages of 10-25 to be eligible to enter the competition.
It’s fine to grab a friend or family member to lend a hand, but all the important roles need to be done by someone aged 10-25.
You have to be from a regional area to be eligible to enter the competition.
Nextwave is all about giving young regional Australians – like you guys – a voice at the film festival.
Creativity and originality is key!
Strong, captivating and unique stories will be valued more highly than a flashy production or expensive equipment. All you really need is a camera and a good story to tell.
Your film needs to be family friendly.
Even if you want to make a film about the zombie apocalypse, some younger kids will be watching your film.
This means no swearing, over the top violence, drug use, or sexual content. We want to be able to share your film with as many people as possible, and if you’re selected as a finalist, it’ll be screened at the Nextwave Youth Film Awards during the Screenwave International Film Festival next January, before being screened around the country for Youth Week!
Your film needs to be submitted by Monday, 21st of September at 11:59 pm.
We’ve got to give our judges as much time as possible to choose finalists, so it’s important that you fill out the entry form and submit your film on time.
New films only!
This competition is all about giving new, fresh short films the screen time they deserve, so your film must have completed principal photography after January 1st, 2020.
Most importantly… HAVE FUN!
Want to get a leg up on the competition and bring the Nextwave online filmmaking workshops to your school? Register your interest below!