In the capitalist world we live in, there are those who choose not to be a cog in the great machine of the billion-dollar film studios; but follow their own path to their celluloid dreams with full creative control by making a web series.
Welcome to Melbourne's WebFest. The Mecca for the aforementioned filmmakers of every country. A place where they can come together to display their work, view that of others, win awards, network and further their efforts.
Beginning in 2013, Melbourne WebFest not only manufactures much needed exposure, community, and prizes, but is also connected to a number of other web series festivals across the world in countries such as: the United States, Italy, South Korea, Canada and Brazil.
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Festival Director, Steinar Ellingsen, expresses his enthusiasm: “We are really excited about this year’s programme. We have a stellar line-up in the Official Selection and our speakers. The selection panel’s job is getting more difficult every year, and this is a great testament to the quality of web series being produced in Australia and around the world. This year’s selection is undoubtedly the strongest we’ve ever had, and it’s also the most diverse.”
Another reason this year will be even better is the addition of 7 new awards and a record 55 different web series from a variety of nations on show as part of the Official Selection. Amazingly, the fun doesn't end there, this year sees the introduction of a new element called Pitch Perfect @ MWF with ABC iView. The competition will be fast-paced, interactive and see competitors pitch their original web-series ideas for the top prize of $5,000 cash, designed to cover the cost of a trip to the Marseille WebFest in France and be a part of their screenwriting residency, sponsored by Fox Digital.
Everything Is ConnectedOther highlights include an Industry development day hosted by LaTrobe University including: master classes and workshops on VR technology, pitching, audience engagement and directing; a 10-web series strong prequel event called 'Spotlight On Melbourne' showcasing local talent; and an opening night with a keynote presentation by actor, writer, and director John Cabera that will also feature the premiere of Melbourne WebFest's own web series '2046'.
Remember 'Italian Spiderman'? His creators Dario Russo and David Ashby got their big break before WebFest began, but success stories like theirs, and those that will come from WebFest, are the reason why spectacular shows like 'Danger 5' exist. Progress like this is great for filmmakers and actors but ultimately all entertainment is made for you, the viewer, so get to Melbourne with your popcorn and pyjamas and prepare to laugh, cry, and maybe pee a little bit.
Fragments Of FridayMelbourne WebFest 2016 will be held at Deakin Edge, Federation Square 1-3 July, with 'Spotlight On Melbourne' preceding it at Loop Project Space & Bar 30 June.
