HOLLYSHORTS, BLOG

BEN LYONS TO HOST 5TH ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS OPENING NIGHT

2009-07-27T22:43:00.000-07:00

5TH ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS
FILM FESTIVAL OPENING NIGHT CELEBRATION AT DGA THEATRE HOSTED BY E! ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION PERSONALITY AND CO-HOST OF THE NATIONALLY SYNDICATED, “AT THE MOVIES” BEN LYONS

July 28, 2009 Hollywood, CA—Ben Lyons, E! Entertainment Television personality and co-host of the nationally syndicated, “At the Movies,” will host the 5th annual HollyShorts Film Festival (HSFF) opening night celebration, which takes place on Thursday, August 6, 2009 at the DGA Theatre in Hollywood. NBC’s “Open House” and “1st Look” correspondent, Viviana Vigil, will be the special guest presenter. The announcement was made today by Daniel Sol, Festival Director, HollyShorts Film Festival.

“We are delighted to have Ben Lyons, one of the sharpest correspondents in the industry today hosting the HollyShorts Opening Night Celebration and can’t wait to gather the top and fastest rising talent in Hollywood all under one roof,” said festival organizers Theo Dumont and Daniel Sol.

Ben Lyons is one of the most sought after television personalities in Hollywood. At the age of 27, Ben is the resident film critic and an entertainment correspondent on E! Entertainment Television, co-host of Nickelodeon’s “My Family’s Got Guts” and co- host of televisions most popular and respected movie program, “At the Movies.” Ben is also a regular correspondent for ABC’s Good Morning America.

“It is a great honor to be involved with the HollyShorts Film Festival this summer. I have always respected and admired short films and find that they are a great way to get familiar with the next generation of talented filmmakers,” said Lyons.

“HollyShorts is a place where up and comers can rub elbows with their mentors and opening night is the big kick off to a week of screenings, panels and major parties, a can’t miss opportunity for any filmmaker,” states Theo Dumont.

Ben's movie reviews and celebrity interviews are seen on “E! News”, “The Daily 10”, and E! Online as well as in his signature segment and webpage called, “The Lyons Den”. Ben is no stranger to the red carpet. He covers film festivals, award shows, film premieres, and visits movie sets with Hollywood's biggest stars for E! Entertainment Television.

5th Annual HollyShorts Opening Night at a Glance: (Thursday, August 6- DGA)

The HollyShorts Film Festival opening night celebration will feature a number of high profile short film projects shot by critically acclaimed cinematographer Darren Lew:

“Streak,” directed by Demi Moore (starring Rumer Willis and Brittany Snow)
“Welcome,” directed by Kristen Dunst (starring Winona Ryder and John Hawkes)
“Bugcrush” directed by Carter Smith (starring Josh Caras and Donald Cumming)

The festival will honor the talented Darren Lew and will also present Eli Roth (Inglorious Basterds) with the inaugural HollyShorts Indie Film Visionary Award during the festival’s opening night celebration.

The HollyShorts Opening Night celebration also marks the Hollywood Premiere of “Kidnapping Caitlynn,” a short film directed by Katherine Cunningham-Eves, starring Jason Biggs (American Pie), Julie Benz (Dexter), Rhys Coiro (Entourage) and Jenny Mollen (My Best Friend’s Girl).

The evening will also feature a special screening of the award winning DVD producer David Prior’s (Zodiac, Fight Club) horror thriller “AM 1200.”

Tickets for the HollyShorts opening night celebration are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.hollyshorts.com or www.brownpapertickets.com.

Tickets for the August 7-13 HollyShorts programs at Laemmle Sunset 5 are now available and can be purchased by visiting www.hollyshorts.com or www.laemmle.com

About HollyShorts
HollyShorts is an organization devoted to showcasing the best and brightest short films from around the globe, advancing the careers of filmmakers through screenings, networking events, and various panel and forums. The HollyShorts Film festival showcases the top short films produced in 30- minutes or less. For more information, please visit www.hollyshorts.com.

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HOLLYSHORTS 2009 AUGUST 6-13

2009-07-19T15:25:00.000-07:00

HOLLYSHORTS TO HONOR ELI ROTH, FEST SET TO UNVEIL 1ST TIME IN US CABIN FEVER DIRECTOR'S CUT!

2009-07-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

5th ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS FILM FESTIVAL KICKS OFF WITH STAR STUDDED OPENING NIGHT AT DGA THEATRE

Festival Set to Honor Eli Roth and Unveil Directors Cut of Cabin Fever for 1st Time in U.S.

Hollywood, CA—The 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival (August 6-13, 2009) kicks off on Thursday August 6 with a special opening night celebration at the DGA Theatre in Hollywood. HollyShorts will present Eli Roth (Inglorious Basterds) with the inaugural HollyShorts Indie Film Visionary Award during the festival’s opening night celebration. With the honor, HollyShorts will screen for the first time in the U.S. Roth’s Director’s cut of Cabin Fever on Friday August 7 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 during a special filmmakers showcase presented by Haydenfilms.

Fest schedule and tickets are now online visit:B SIDE.COM

The HollyShorts opening night celebration will also honor acclaimed cinematographer Darren Lew. The event will feature a showcase of three top short films that Lew has shot including:

*”Streak” Directed by Demi Moore (Bobby)
*”Welcome” Directed by Kirsten Dunst (Spider-Man)
*“Bugcrush” Directed by Carter Smith (The Ruins)

Darren Lew

The HollyShorts Opening Night celebration marks the Hollywood Premiere of “Kidnapping Caitlynn,” a short film starring Jason Biggs (American Pie), Julie Benz (Dexter), Rhys Coiro (Entourage) and Jenny Mollen (My Best Friend’s Girl) Directed by Katherine Cunningham-Eves (Murdering Mamma’s Boy), all confirmed to attend and participate in a special Q&A session.

The evening will also feature a special screening of the award winning DVD producer David Prior’s (Zodiac, Fight Club) horror thriller “AM 1200.”

The opening night celebration will be hosted by Ben Lyons (E! Networks resident film critic , ABC’s “At The Movies” correspondent). NBC’s LXTV First Look correspondent Viviana Vigil will be a special presenter for the evening.

Get ready for the best and brightest short films from around the world, industry panels, Q&A’s with filmmakers and a number of high profile receptions and networking events!

Tickets are now available for the HollyShorts opening night celebration which takes place on Thursday, August 6 at the DGA Theatre on Sunset in Hollywood presented by Royalty Rope Events. The official media partner for the evening is H-Magazine (http://www.h-monthly.com).

To purchase opening night tickets, just click here: www.hollyshorts.com

5th Annual HollyShorts Schedule at a Glance (August 6-13, 2009)

• HollyShorts 2009 Opening Night Celebration (Red Carpet), Thursday August 6 DGA Theatre, 7920 W Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90046.

• HollyShorts Short Film Screenings, Industry Panels, Q&A’s and special receptions: August 7-9 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 in Hollywood, 8000 Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood, 90046.

• HollyShorts and Haydenfilms Showcase, $10,000 Award Presentation to Haydenfilms Film Festival online winner and US. Debut of Eli Roth’s Director’s Cut of Cabin Fever: Friday, August 7, 2009 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 in Hollywood.

• HollyShorts and Actor Jimmy Jean Louis’s (Heroes) Hollywood Unites for Haiti Charity VIP Celebration: Saturday, August 8, 2009 at The Kress in Hollywood Presented by Royalty Rope Events. The evening will feature a Webisode Showcase, marquee lineup from Floored and Lifted.

• HollyShorts Awards: Sunday, August 9 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 in Hollywood.

• HollyShorts and More: Festival winners and feature film screenings: August 10-13 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5.

• HollyShorts closing night celebration, Thursday August 13 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5.

About HollyShorts:
HollyShorts Film Festival (HSFF) is an annual short film festival showcasing the best and brightest short films from around the globe. HollyShorts is devoted to the advancement of filmmakers through screenings, Q&A sessions and networking events. HSFF showcases the top short films produced in 30- minutes or less. For more information, please visit www.hollyshorts.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION
Press Contacts:
Erica Sardarian 818.632.2718
esardarian@gmail.com
Isandra Gonzalez 818.668.4718
isandra@22entertainment.net

Save the Dates…HollyShorts Film Festival (August 6-13, 2009)

2009-06-12T06:53:00.000-07:00

Save the Dates…HollyShorts Film Festival (August 6-13, 2009)

WHO: THE 5TH ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS FILM FESTIVAL

Filmmakers and Stars Set To Align for HollyShorts ‘09, a week of Screenings, Industry Panels and Networking

WHAT:
• Festival kicks off with opening night celebration At the DGA Theatre in Hollywood presented by Royalty Rope Events to honor and feature 3 short films shot by acclaimed cinematographer Darren Lew:

*"Streak" Directed by Demi Moore (Mr. Brooks)

*"Welcome" Directed by Kirsten Dunst (Spiderman)

*“Bugcrush" Directed by Carter Smith (The Ruins)

*The HollyShorts Opening Night celebration also marks the Hollywood Premiere of “Kidnapping Caitlynn,” a short film starring Jason Biggs (American Pie), Julie Benz (Dexter), Rhys Coiro (Entourage) and Jenny Mollen (My Best Friend’s Girl) Directed by Katherine Cunningham-Eves (Murdering Mamma’s Boy), all confirmed to attend and participate in a special Q&A session.

• Festival to showcase over 90 of the best and brightest short films, music videos and webisodes from around the world.

WHEN: August 6-13, 2009

WHERE: A variety of high profile venues throughout Hollywood including:

• Opening Night Celebration: Thursday August 6, 2009 at the DGA Theatre in Hollywood, 7920 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, California.

• HollyShorts Short Film Screenings, Industry Panels, Q&A’s and special receptions: August 7-9, 2009 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 in Hollywood, 8000 Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood, 90046.

• HollyShorts Red Camera Seminar Presented By Clifton Production Services: Friday August 7, 2009 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 in Hollywood.

• HollyShorts and HaydenFilms Film Festival Showcase: Friday, August 7, 2009 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 in Hollywood.

• HollyShorts Industry Panels hosted by Jamie Linden (We Are Marshall): Saturday, August 8, 2009 and Sunday, August 9, 2009.

• HollyShorts and Actor Jimmy Jean Louis’s (Heroes) Hollywood Unites for Haiti Charity VIP Celebration: Saturday, August 8, 2009 at The Kress in Hollywood Presented by Royalty Rope Events.

• HollyShorts Awards: Sunday, August 9, 2009 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 in Hollywood.

• HollyShorts Back lot: Festival winners and feature film screenings: August 10-13 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5.

• Hollywood premiere of acclaimed independent film Knuckle Draggers Written and Directed by Alex Ranarivelo: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 in Hollywood.

WHY: HollyShorts is an organization devoted to showcasing the best and brightest short films from around the globe, advancing the careers of filmmakers through screenings, networking events, and various panel and forums. Last year’s festival featured appearances and short films from actors Jessica Biel, David Arquette and Josh Brolin, the festival awarded legendary filmmaker David Lynch the 2008 HollyShorts Visionary Award; Oscar winner Paul Haggis with the 2008 HollyShorts Outstanding Achievement in film award and fast-rising actress Paula Garces with the 2008 HollyShorts Future Star award.

HOW: Tickets and full festival schedule: www.hollyshorts.com.

For Interviews and Press Credentials, please contact:

Erica Sardarian (erica@hollyshorts.com) 818-760-9897

Talent Submissions please contact:
Isandra Gonzalez (Isag22@gmail.com) 22 Entertainment (Talent)

2009 HOLLYSHORTS FILM FESTIVAL OFFICIAL JURY
• Mark Fergus, Writer (Ironman, Children of Men, Consequence)
• Jimmy Jean-Louis, Actor (Heroes)
• Bill Purple, Writer, Director, Producer (Hole in the Paper Sky, Iron Ocean Films)
• Jesse Terrero, Writer, Director, Producer (Soul Plane, music videos for 50 Cent, Sean Paul, The Lox, G-Unit)
• Lucas Carter, The Weinstein Co. Director, Production and Development
• Larry Hankin, Writer, Actor, Director (Friends, Seinfeld)
• Peter Russell, Story Analyst (Walden (AFG) Films (The Chronicles of Narnia), and Participant Productions (An Inconvenient Truth), Imagine Films, and CBS Television Network)
• Amy Draughn, Production (Josh Brolin Productions)
• Jeff Vespa, Writer, Director, Actor (co-Founder Wireimage, Nosebleed)
• Jayme Linden, Writer (We Are Marshall, Dear John, The Dogs of Babel)
• Maurissa Tanchoreon, Writer, Actress (Dollhouse, Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog)
• Jedd Whedon Writer, Composer, Actor (Dollhouse, Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog)
• Arianna Jackson, Partner, Producer, Chill Entertainment (G, Confessions of a Memory Eater)
• Leah Meyerhoff, Writer, Director (Twitch, Unicorns)
• Eric Robles , Executive Producer, Creator Nickelodeon's Fanboy and Chum Chum
Stacey Parks, Stacey Parks, founder of Film Specific and author of The Insider's Guide To Independent Film Distribution
• William Olsson, Director, An American Affair

2009-05-19T13:19:00.000-07:00

HOLLYSHORTS LATE LATE DEADLINE IS JUNE 5th, FEST ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL JURY

OFFICIAL LATE LATE DEADLINE FOR HOLLYSHORTS SUBMISSIONS IS JUNE 5 ON WAB

FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL JURY OF INDUSTRY HEAVY HITTERS FOR
5TH ANNUAL EVENT

June 5 marks the official late deadline for submissions for the 5th annual HollyShorts Film Festival, so act now and submit your short! HollyShorts is accepting music videos and short films in a variety of genres including animation, live action, documentary, and for the first time ever in a partnership with actor Jimmy Jean-Louis and his non-profit organization Hollywood Unites For Haiti (HUFH), we have a webisode category which will be judged by Writer/Actress Maurissa Tanchoreon, and Writer/Composer/Actor Jedd Whedon. Murissa and Jedd are responsible for the Streamy Award Winning online phenomenon Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog and are writers on Dollhouse. You can submit now by visiting:
hollyshorts.com or withoutabox.com. June 5 is the Withoutabox extended deadline.

In addition, we are glad to announce our official jury for the 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival (August 6-9, 2009). See the jury below, which features a who’s who of industry heavy hitters.

HOLLYSHORTS 2009 JURY

Mark Fergus, Writer, Ironman, Children of Men (Academy Award Nominee for Adapted Screenplay), Consequence, First Snow (Writer/Director)

Jimmy Jean-Louis, Actor (Heroes)

Bill Purple, Writer, Director, Producer (Hole in the Paper Sky, Iron Ocean Films)

Jesse Terrero, Writer, Director, Producer (Soul Plane, music videos for 50 Cent, Sean Paul, The Lox, G-Unit)

Lucas Carter, The Weinstein Co. Director, Production and Development

Peter Russell, Story Analyst (Walden (AFG) Films (The Chronicles of Narnia), and Participant Productions (An Inconvenient Truth), Imagine Films, and CBS Television Network)

Amy Draughn, Production (Josh Brolin Productions)

Jeff Vespa, Writer, Director, Actor (co-Founder Wireimage, Nosebleed)

Jamie Linden, Writer (We Are Marshall, Dear John, The Dogs of Babel)

Maurissa Tanchoreon, Writer, Actress (Dollhouse, Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog)

Jedd Whedon, Writer, Composer, Actor (Dollhouse, Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog)

Arianna Jackson, Partner, Producer, Chill Entertainment (Confessions of a Memory Eater)

Leah Meyerhoff, Writer, Director (Twitch, Unicorns)

Eric Robles, Executive Producer, Creator Nickelodeon’s Fanboy and Chum Chum

Stacey Parks, Stacey Parks, founder of Film Specific and author of The Insider’s Guide To Independent Film Distribution

William Olsson, Director, (An American Affair)

GO LEAH GO LEAH: JOHANNA BRADDY AND KYLE GALLNER TO STAR IN ‘UNICORNS’

2009-04-28T07:44:00.001-07:00

JOHANNA BRADDY TO STAR IN INDIE FEATURE ‘UNICORNS’ FROM PRODUCER HEATHER RAE
ROLE LATEST IN STRING OF PROJECTS FOR BRADDY

LOS ANGELES Johanna Braddy will star in the independent feature UNICORNS written and to be directed by HollyShorts Alumni Leah Meyerhoff and being produced by Heather Rae (FROZEN RIVER), it was announced today.

Braddy will star opposite Kyle Gallner (THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT) in the story about an awkward and eccentric teenage girl who struggles to find herself as she alternates between real and fantasy worlds.

This latest role in UNICORNS comes hot on the heels of Braddy’s recent recurring role on the pilot A MARRIAGE from Marshall Herskovitz and Ed Zwick for CBS, a recurring role on the series SOUTHLAND from John Wells on NBC, and her nine-episode arc on GREEK for ABC Family which began airing two weeks ago.

Braddy’s other film credits include Paramount Vantage’s BROKEN BRIDGES and Sony’s SURF’S UP. In television, she has appeared on Fox’s LIE TO ME and ABC’s SAMANTHA WHO?.

Rae recently produced the much acclaimed independent film FROZEN RIVER starring Melissa Leo. She is currently producing AMERICAN TRAGIC starring America Ferrera, Wilmer Valderrama, Melissa Leo, Ana Claudia Talancon, June Raphael and Diego Klattenhoff.

Leah Meyerhoff previously directed the critically acclaimed and Student Academy nominated short film TWITCH.

Braddy is represented by UTA and Tower 10 Entertainment.

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5TH ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS FILM FESTIVAL TO OPEN WITH SPOTLIGHT ON CINEMATOGRAPHER DARREN LEW

2009-03-17T10:30:00.000-07:00

5TH ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS FILM FESTIVAL, PRESENTED BY ROYALTY ROPE EVENTS, TO OPEN WITH SPOTLIGHT ON CINEMATOGRAPHER DARREN LEW

Event to Showcase Three Award-Winning Short Films Shot by Lew:
"Bugcrush" Directed by Carter Smith
"Streak" Directed by Demi Moore
"Welcome" Directed by Kirsten Dunst

Festival Takes Place August 6-9, 2009
Royalty Rope Events To Also Host HollyShorts and Actor Jimmy Jean-Louis's ("Heroes") non profit organization Hollywood Unites for Haiti's (HUFH) special VIP celebration at The Kress

HOLLYWOOD, CA March 17, 2009---The 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival (August 6-9), presented by Royalty Rope Events, will open in Hollywood on Thursday, August 6, with a special spotlight on award-winning cinematographer Darren Lew (www.darrenlew.com). The event will showcase three of Lew's most celebrated short films: "Bugcrush," directed by Carter Smith (The Ruins), "Streak," directed by Demi Moore, and "Welcome," directed by Kirsten Dunst. The announcement was made today by Festival Director Daniel Sol.

With a resume consisting of over 11 notable short films, as well as a reel of commercials for Madison Avenue's biggest brands, Darren Lew is one of Hollywood's fastest-rising cinematographers. Most recently Lew teamed with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Media and Myspace Celebrity to shoot a slew of famous personalities making pledges of service to President Barack Obama. Directed and produced by Demi Moore, the video featured Cameron Diaz, Eva Longoria Parker, Sean "Diddy" Combs, George Lopez, Ashlee Simpson, Courteney Cox, and Dakota Fanning, among many others, and was broadcast on the Oprah Winfrey show.

"On the heels of last year's festival, which featured the likes of David Lynch, Paul Haggis, Josh Brolin, Jessica Biel, and David Arquette, we are honored to spotlight one of Hollywood's fastest-rising cinematographers," said Sol. "Darren signifies what HollyShorts is all about.
Continues…
5TH ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS FILM FESTIVAL/Page 2
He goes out of his way to give first-time filmmakers access to his services, and it's definitely time he gets recognized for his excellent work and efforts in this business."

The Darren Lew HollyShorts Opening Night Spotlight will include the following short films, photographed by Lew:

"Bugcrush," directed by Carter Smith (The Ruins) was the Sundance '06 Grand Jury Prize winner for Short Filmmaking and official selection Cannes Film Festival '06. "Bugcrush" stars Josh Caras (The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2), Donald Cumming (The Favor), Eleonore Hendricks (Creative Nonfiction) and David Tennent (The House is Burning). "Bugcrush" is the story of Ben (Caras), a small-town high school loner, whose fascination with Grant (Cumming), a dangerously seductive new kid, leads him into something much more sinister than he could have ever imagined.

"Streak," directed by Demi Moore (Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle, Ghost, A Few Good Men). Part of Glamour Magazine's Reel Moments project, "Streak"stars Brittany Snow (Hairspray), Rumer Willis (The House Bunny), Sarah Wright (The House Bunny) and Madeline Zima (A Cinderella Story) and tells the story of a high school senior, Baylin (Snow), who's been feeling a little claustrophobic. With graduation just around the corner, she realizes she has very little in common with her so-called best friends. One day at the gym she hits it off with free-spirited Drea (Willis). Soon Baylin's new friendship takes her on a lucky streak she won't soon forget.

"Welcome," directed by Kirsten Dunst (Spiderman, Marie Antoinette, How to Lose Friends & Alienate People), also part of Glamour's Reel Moments, stars Winona Ryder (Edward Scissorhands), John Hawkes (American Gangster) and Lexi Jourden (Two and a Half Men). The short tells how Bill (Hawkes), Cynthia (Ryder) and their daughter Alice (Jourden) move into a new house and find themselves confronted by an unexpected occupant. However, as they decide what to do, the young family learns that sometimes, living peacefully means learning how to get along with anyone-or anything....

Darren Lew is one of Hollywood's fastest-rising cinematographers. He has worked on projects with such recognizable creative artists as photographer Annie Leibovitz, director/DP Lance Acord (Marie Antoinette), art director Fabien Baron, feature director Ben Younger (Boiler Room), documentarian Albert Maysles, and Vogue photographer Steven Meisel.

His commercial work includes clients such as Nike, Lacoste, Versace, Stella McCartney, Estee Lauder, Volkswagen, Rolex, Canon, Dr. Pepper and GMC. He served as the Director of Photography on Glen Luchford's "Dark Yellow," which took home the top prize for short films at the 2008 Jackson Hole Film Festival, Jennie Livingston's short "Who's The Top," and doc "Through The Ice," Ranier Judd's short film "Remember Back, Remember When." Lew is also in production on Kirsten Dunst's and Jacob Soboroff's new documentary, "Why Vote," which is being produced by Participant Media.
Continues…
5TH ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS FILM FESTIVAL/Page 3
Lew is represented by the Endeavor Agency.

The HollyShorts opening night event will also feature several additional acclaimed short film projects and awards.
On Saturday, August 8, Royalty Rope Events will host the HollyShorts and actor Jimmy Jean-Louis's ("Heroes") non profit organization Hollywood Unites for Haiti's (HUFH) special VIP celebration at The Kress, a premiere dining and entertainment venue in Hollywood.
HollyShorts is currently accepting submissions for the 5th Annual Festival.

Filmmakers can submit now by visiting www.hollyshorts.com or by submitting on Withoutabox directly at www.withoutabox.com/login/4655. All submissions must be 30 minutes or less. Categories include Live Action, Animation, Documentary and Music Video. HollyShorts also has a discounted category for student projects. Deadlines to submit U.S. and International short films for the 2009 HollyShorts Film Festival are:

April 17, 2009 - Official deadline
May 15, 2009 - Late deadline
June 5, 2009- Withoutabox.com extended late deadline

The 4th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival took place August 7-10, 2008 in Hollywood with top honors of Best Short Film going to "Bloom" directed Lance Larson. Larson was awarded $2000 VFX package courtesy of Clifton Post for his next project. The Best Student Short honors went to David Jibladze, for his short film "Beholden." Jibladze took home a 5-day HVX-200, HD Camera rental package courtesy of Martini Crew Booking. Over $25,000 in prizes were awarded. The submission link and complete information regarding eligibility and entry rules for the 2009 HollyShorts Film Festival are available on the HollyShorts Film Festival website at www.hollyshorts.com. Information is also available through the HollyShorts hotline at 818-760-9897, by email to staff@hollyshorts.com .

For sponsorship information, please email admin@hollyshorts.com with your query.

About HollyShorts
HollyShorts is an organization devoted to showcasing the best and brightest short films from around the globe, advancing the careers of filmmakers through screenings, networking events, and various panel and forums. The HollyShorts Film festival showcases the top short films produced 30- minutes or less. For more information, please visit www.hollyshorts.com. Filmmaker news available at www.hollyshortsfilmfestival.blogspot.com.

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Contacts:
HollyShorts
Erica Sardarian (erica@hollyshorts.com) 818-760-9897
Isandra Gonzalez (Isag22@gmail.com) 22 Entertainment (Talent)

Royalty Rope Events
Sean Dubravac (Sean@RoyaltyRope.com ) 310-488-0056

The Kress
Andrea Oreckinto Feuerstein (andrea@kravetzpr.com)

INCONVENIENCE AND JAY VS. LIFE ARE VOTED IN AT HOLLYSHORTS MONTHLY SCREENINGS

2009-03-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

Christopher De Maria's short film Inconvenience received the most votes at the March HollyShorts Monthly Screening Event at the Echo Park Film Center. With the win, Inconvenience and receives an automatic bid as an official selection into the 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival (August 6-9, 2009). At the February Monthly Screening Event, Greg Munion's JAY VS. LIFE received the most votes for an automatic bid.

InCONVENIENCE
Directed by Christopher De Maria (cdemaria@msn.com)
When brothers Brad and Victor, short on money and not exactly long in street smarts, decided to rob a convenience store, they didn’t count on the cash register holding only 35 bucks. But they’ve come too far to turn back. “InConvenience” is the story of why they should have!

ZOE MCLELLAN CAST AS LEAD IN CBS PILOT

2009-03-14T00:56:00.001-07:00

Congrats to HollyShorts Alumna and last year's HollyShorts Best Actress winner Zoe McLellan (Dirty Sexy Money). According to The Hollywood Reporter, Zoe has been cast and will play the lead in a CBS pilot called "A Marriage." Zoe picked up the Best Actress at last Year's HollyShorts for her role in "Person Place or Thing."

HollyShorts Monthly Screening, March 7th

2009-03-01T01:29:00.001-08:00

Our next monthly screening is March 7th @ The Echo Park Film Center, 8pm.

Hope to see you there!

Daniel
www.hollyshorts.com

HOLLYSHORTS FOUNDERS HAVE THEIR HEADS IN THE RIGHT PLACE

2009-01-31T15:50:00.000-08:00

HOLLYSHORTS FOUNDERS HAVE THEIR HEADS IN THE RIGHT PLACE
January 31st, 2009

Article from: Haydenfilms.com

Monday, January 26, 2009
HollyShorts Founders Have Their Heads in the Right Place

By Jess Novak, Haydenfilms Hollywood Corrrespondent

Founders Daniel Sol and Theo Dumont have earned significant recognition for their film festival, HollyShorts, which takes place annually in Los Angeles. By integrating independent filmmakers from all over the world and industry professionals including Josh Brolin, Jessica Biel, David Arquette and a long list of others, HollyShorts is quickly becoming the independent festival to watch.

HollyShorts offers filmmakers the opportunity to share their work with an ever-growing audience in the heart of Los Angeles. Through question and answer sessions following films, industry panels addressing important issues facing the film business, and various opportunities to mingle with other filmmakers, producers, actors and professionals, HollyShorts offers an ideal environment for up and coming filmmakers and film viewers.

“Initially we had no idea the festival would get so much attention,” explained co-founder Daniel Sol. “However, now it annually brings attention and awareness to some really incredible talent.”

Last year the event featured many world premieres among films also submitted to other festivals, including Haydenfilms own competition. The screenings offer filmmakers the chance to share their work with fellow industry professionals and general audiences on the big screen in several L.A. theaters. Since HollyShorts began in 2005, films from the United States, Poland, the U.K., Canada, Thailand and France have been featured.

Plans for this year’s festival are already finalized and submissions are being accepted. Films to be considered must be 30 minutes or less and can be submitted on HollyShorts.com or through withoutabox.com.

This year’s festival runs from August 6-9 in Hollywood and will be sponsored by Martini Crew Booking, h magazine, Moving Pictures magazine, Clifton Coast, Holiday Inn Express Hollywood, Film Specific, Dry Soda Co., Pura Casta Tequila, Showbiz Software Stores and others, many of which contribute significantly to the events’ impressive list of prizes and awards.

“Last year ShowBiz Software Store donated film software packages worth $2,000,” said Sol. “Normally people wouldn’t go out and buy these types of programs and tools, but they really should have them. They are a huge benefit.”
In addition to offering the opportunity for exposure, other software packages, coverage in magazines including Moving Pictures, complementary hotel stays, and equipment rentals offer filmmakers additional incentive to become involved in HollyShorts.

“We chose to give prizes like these out for a reason,” explained Dumont. “Rather than just giving winners cash, we give them something they can directly use and benefit from, which is exciting for young filmmakers.”

One of the most endearing qualities of the festival is its strong attempt to draw in not only professional and more experienced filmmakers, but students as well.

“Many times student films are the best submissions we receive,” said Dumont. “We showcase students every year and regularly receive films from major film schools including USC and NYU. We also offer students a discount and really encourage their participation. The more entries, the better.”

However, students aren’t the only filmmakers submitting. In fact, many professionals from another end of the experience spectrum have also become extremely involved throughout the festival’s history.

HollyShorts boasts an impressive list of professional involvement through film submissions, actors in the films and panel participants. David Lynch, Adrien Grenier, Jason Ritter, Richard Reel and Mark Fergus are just a few celebrity professionals, who have participated in the event.

“The goal of HollyShorts is to create a community,” said Sol. “We’re bringing together a variety of people involved in the film industry in a way where they can benefit each other.”

Since it began, HollyShorts has seen tremendous growth, starting with 23 short films and ending last year with 57 in competition. Last year 615 submissions were received and the anticipated goal for this year is 1,000. The festival has also garnered coverage from outlets including Access Hollywood, The Los Angeles Times, US Weekly, E! News and an impressive number of film media outlets (http://hollyshorts.com/main/press/).

HollyShorts has enjoyed so much success, that Sol and Dumont decided to begin monthly film showcases after last year’s event. The showcase offers filmmakers who just missed the festival cut, an opportunity to still share their work, network with other professionals and answer questions regarding their films.

“It’s a smaller, simpler, more intimate and casual event that really helps to spread awareness of HollyShorts and offers really good films a chance to be seen,” explained Sol. “We showcase as many as possible throughout the year in an effort to help support these independent filmmakers as much as possible.”

Having both studied and worked in the film industry in several capacities prior to beginning the festival, Sol and Dumont understand the importance of this exposure and opportunity to reach out to audiences and other professionals.

“After studying film in school I saw what I difficult process it was for students and felt like it was something we should try to help,” said Sol. “Our festival has gone so well since.”

However, the success of HollyShorts isn’t simply attributable to a smart idea and thorough execution, but also to the personal involvement of both founders.

“We are very personally involved in every aspect of HollyShorts,” said Dumont. “We really care about the event and are constantly working to make improvements so people see why they should become involved.”

HollyShorts has been making significant improvements recently including working toward a more prominent web-based technological presence, composing compilation DVDs of past festivals and working to create a better atmosphere for everyone involved.

“We really work hard to pick the very best films so we don’t over-saturate the event and so we can guarantee everyone prime times for their film to be shown,” said Sol. “We work hard to bring in credible names to the panels and try to pick timely topics that will be worthwhile and helpful for audiences.”

It is amazing what artists participating in HollyShorts can create on such small budgets and for no other reason than love of the craft. It is equally amazing how two individuals can aid others by sharing their gifts, talents and creativity for no other reason than their passion to help spread the commendable work of others.

August 6-9, 2009 guarantees to deliver the best HollyShorts to date and you are invited (http://hollyshortsfilmfestival.blogspot.com/2008/08/get-your-tickets-now-to-hollyshorts.html). Don’t miss your opportunity to experience one of the best and most promising independent film festivals happening today.

####

FIRSTGLANCE AND PROJECT TWENTY1 TO HOST

2009-01-26T15:42:00.000-08:00

January 11, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Nicole Greene
(610)505-3571
Nicole@projecttwenty1.com

FIRSTGLANCE AND PROJECT TWENTY1 TO HOST

"SHOW US YOUR SHORTS" SCREENING JANUARY 31ST

Philadelphia, PA – Project Twenty1, the creators of Philadelphia's largest filmmaking competition, and FirstGlance, Philadelphia's longest running independent film festival, will be co-hosting a film screening, "Show Us Your Shorts," January 31st at Marbar, located at 40th & Walnut Streets in Philadelphia. The event will be the first official event hosted by both of these festivals, and will feature an open-mic-style screening of short films provided by audience members on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Project Twenty1 Executive Producer Stephanie Yuhas sees these screenings as a great way to increase exposure for the Philadelphia film community. "We decided to make the Show Us Your Shorts event an open-mic-style screening in order to help burgeoning independent filmmakers in Philadelphia," says Yuhas. "This sort of screening will provide a larger and more diverse audience for those who might not normally have access to feedback outside of their immediate social circles."

The organizers will screen both finished works as well as works in progress up to 20 minutes in length. Films will be chosen on a first-come, first-serve basis. FirstGlance and Project Twenty1 will be offering over $300 in prizes to the Best Short of the evening consisting of all-access festival passes to both festivals in 2009, DVDs from both festivals, and additional material. "We're thrilled to offer these prizes to encourage the spirit of creativity and competition. In addition, for 'Show Us Your Shorts,' the attendee who arrives wearing the most hilarious short pants will also receive a door prize," added FirstGlance Festival Director Bill Ostroff.

This screening is set to be the first of many to be organized jointly by the two festivals. "One of the many reasons that we decided to partner is to provide more screenings around the city throughout the year as we build towards our festivals in October," says Matt Conant, Festival Director of Project Twenty1. "FirstGlance and Project Twenty1 have so many similar goals in terms of the Philadelphia film community, it only made sense to work together."

This event is free and open to the public. Films will begin screening at 7:00pm and will run approximately 2 hours.

For more information, please visit www.firstglancefilms.com, or www.projecttwenty1.com.

2008-12-26T14:49:00.001-08:00

HOllyShorts call for entries now open. thanks Dave Branin for the artwork!

2008-12-25T13:28:00.001-08:00

new holly banner by Dave Brannin.

2008-12-22T09:27:00.000-08:00

Following the most successful HollyShorts Film Festival to date, in which David Lynch and Paul Haggis were honored and shorts from Josh Brolin, Jessica Biel, and David Arquette were showcased, we are now accepting entries for the 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival. Ranked by Moviemaker Magazine as “one of the top film festivals worth the entry fee,” the 5th Annual HSFF takes place August 6-9, 2009 in Hollywood and will feature an opening night event, screenings at Laemmle’s Sunset 5 Theatres, panels, receptions, and our awards ceremony. Last year, we gave over $30,000 dollars worth of prizes to our winners. Submissions can be completed online by visiting www.hollyshorts.com or via Withoutabox at www.withoutabox.com/login/4655

HOLLYSHORTS CALL FOR ENTRIES NOW OPEN

2008-12-20T09:52:00.000-08:00

Calling all filmmakers, HollyShorts is now accepting submissions for the 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival which takes place August 6-9, 2009.You can submit by clicking on our Withoutabox icon below!

The fest takes place in Hollywood with screenings at Laemmle's Sunset 5 and a major opening night premiere scheduled on Thursday, August 6.

Holly Friday

2008-12-16T17:19:00.000-08:00

HollyShorts monthly screening takes place this Friday at the Echo Park Film Center 7:30pm! Free Drinks, Q&A with the filmmakers and raffle.

HollyShorts Monthly Screening October 3rd @ Echo Park Film Center

2008-09-29T16:14:00.000-07:00

HOLLYSHORTS MONTHLY SCREENING SERIES FRIDAY OCTOBER 3 @ ECHO PARK FILM CENTER!
April 20th, 2008

Festival's Acclaimed Short Film Showcase Returns This Week

On the heels of the successful star-studded 4th annual HollyShorts Film Festival, which took place this past August, HollyShorts is back with a new installment of the festival's acclaimed monthly screening series this Friday, October 3rd at the Echo Park Film Center in Los Angeles. Join us as we prepare for the January 2009 Call For Entries for the 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival. This Friday, we are celebrating 5 top notch short films with the directors/producers and talent on hand to discuss their projects and the state of the industry in the October installment of the monthly screening series.
Tickets are $10 and available at the door. Doors open at 7:30 pm, screening begins at 8pm, event ends at 11pm. Q&A session, raffle, and reception to follow screening. Free Wine, Beer---soda courtesy of our sponsor Dry Soda co. and tequila from our sponsor Pura Casta. The Echo Park Film Center is located at 1200 N. Alvarado Street (@ Sunset Blvd) Los Angeles, CA 90026.

Also, we will be raffling off tickets to the ELEVATE Film Festival which takes place Oct. 5th!
To RSVP: staff@hollyshorts.com.

Friday's lineup includes the following shorts:

BEATS PER MINUTE

"BEATS PER MINUTE" Directed by Andrea Ball (andrea@beatsperminutefilm.com). Through very lovable and entertaining choreography, an incredibly talented French street dancer leaves Europe with a one-way ticket to Hollywood to show the world a style of dance they've never seen before. But in order to reach his dreams of becoming a professional break-dancer he must first confront his past and learn to control his fate.

PIGEONHOLE

"Pigeonhole" Directed by Nicole Tanzabel (ntanzabel@gmail.com). An elderly man lives alone in a high-rise council flat - boxed in and detached from the world below. Nobody visits him; he has only his TV for company. He never leaves his flat; he never needs to due to his unique system of self-sufficiency: using a booby-trapped birdhouse placed on his window sill he catches pigeons, roasts and eats them. Until one day he captures a dove...

SLEEPER

"SLEEPER" Directed by Philippe Casseus (casseus@gmail.com).
(Final Cut) Simeon wakes up in a coma with no idea how long he's been sleeping. The sound of Noelle's voice reaches him, urging him to wake. But Simeon's ego has other plans for his id.

THE STAIN ON THE SIDEWALK

"THE STAIN ON THE SIDEWALK" Directed by Adam Schlachter (adimafilm@hotmail.com). Andy, a high school freshman, secretly longs for Vanessa, the beautiful girlfriend of the neighborhood bully. In a fumbling, yet poetic exercise, he searches for the right words to declare his love for her, hoping she notices him. But ultimately, Andy discovers that actions may speak much louder than words.

VAMONOS

"VAMONOS" Directed by Maurice Compte, written by Marina Valle (holamarinavalle@hotmail.com). Marisol and Manny are weary travellers looking for a quick bite to eat. Little do they know how their pit stop will change their lives.

INDUSTRY NEWS

HOLLYSHORTS ANNOUNCES DATES FOR 5TH ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS FILM FESTIVAL
That's right, the 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival will take place August 6-9, 2009 in Hollywood. A great portion of the screenings program will once again take place at Laemmle's Sunset 5 Theatre! Stay tuned for details on the opening night extravaganza, which will take place on Thursday, August 6, 2009. Details on the January Call For Entries are also forthcoming.

4TH ANNUAL HOLLYSHORTS DRAWS RECORD NUMBER OF MEDIA ATTENTION
The 4th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival drew over $1.8 million worth of media impressions with national broadcast and print press coverage in outlets such as the Los Angeles Times, Variety, US Weekly, Life and Style, Access Hollywood, Entertainment Tonight, E! News, Reelzchannel and much more. Check out the coverage by visiting http://hollyshorts.com/main/press/.

GOOOOOO ELEVATE!

Come experience the world's fastest growing global filmmaking competition
and awards show of its kind, ELEVATE, at the 7100 seat Nokia Theatre L.A.
Live on October 5th celebrating this year's theme "All Tribes Unite"! The
first ever filmmaking competition that challenges the international film
community to create works of social and global importance will premiere in
one star-studded event with judges including producers Michel Shane, A.
Kitman Ho and Martha De Laurentiis. With music videos from Black Eyed Peas' Apl and Grammy Award winning Keb Mo.
ELEVATE will bring together twenty professional filmmakers from around the
globe who will compete in the categories of documentary, music video,
narrative and commercial. The catch? They only have 7 days to complete the
mission! ELEVATE Film Festival is a night of cutting-edge cinema devoted to
stimulating positive change-a show so priceless it's FREE! Free general
admission tickets available the day of the show on a first come-first save
basis. Premium tickets can be purchased through ticketmaster for $35.
For more information please visit: elevatefilmfestival.com.

About HollyShorts

HollyShorts Film Festival (HSFF) is an annual film festival showcasing the best and brightest short films from around the globe. HollyShorts is devoted to the advancement filmmakers through screenings, Q&A sessions and networking events. The HollyShorts Film Festival showcases the top short films produced 30-minutes or less. For sponsorship queries, please email us at staff@hollyshorts.com.

To submit to our Monthly Screenings (Rolling Submissions for $10), email: admin@hollyshorts.com.

Filmmaker behind the scenes news at: www.hollyshortsfilmfestival.blogspot.com
About EchoParkFilmCenter

Echo Park Film Center is a volunteer-run, non-profit media arts organization located in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. We provide equal and affordable access to film/video education and resources via:

a community microcinema and meeting space
free and nominal cost media arts education programs
a comprehensive small format film equipment and service department
a touring film festival showcasing local established and student filmmakers
For more information, visit: www.echoparkfilmcenter.org.

Short Film Starring HERO THE GREAT Producer Tracy Perez to screen at LA Int'l Latino Film Fest

2008-09-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

St. Paul will screen at the LA Int'l Latino Film Festival on Monday Sept. 15th at 5:30pm at the Egyptian.

Paul Ramirez, a senior in college wears his atheism on his sleeve like an intellectual badge of courage. In fact, he preaches the word of doubt to all that will listen. He has had a particularly cogent influence on his girlfriend Samantha. When Samantha's mother is diagnosed with terminal cancer she is, as one would expect, devastated. Paul desperately searches for something, anything that will make her feel even just a little bit better, but to his horror he quickly realizes that her conversion to atheism has stripped her of the ability to comfort herself through a belief in the afterlife. Soon after, Paul begins wrestling with the growing suspicion that maybe, just maybe, God is punishing him for his sins.

To watch trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_ZAD-2U5Z4

BACA RECEIVES LATINA ENTREPRENEUR AWARD

2008-09-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

HollyShorts Filmmaker Shawna Baca picked up the Latina Entrepreneur Award at the
Latina Symposium last week.

HOLLYSHORTS FILMS TO PLAY AT GREEK FILM FEST

2008-09-13T07:59:00.000-07:00

A selection of HollyShorts Short films will play at the upcoming AZA Digital Cinema Festival in Greece.
In addition to HollyShorts films, check out the other fests represented:
basque cinema
romanian cinema
shorts by: polanski, kieslowski, zanussi
britfilms & coffeeshorts from u.k.
special experimental/video art (poland,brazil,france)
pocket films from Forum des Images, france

HollyShorts Opening Night Photos

2008-09-10T17:30:00.000-07:00

4th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival opening night. Egyptian Theatre, Hollywood.

HollyShorts Opening Night Segment

2008-08-28T23:25:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES TIMES: HollyShorts Festival: At the Egyptian, every minute counts.

2008-08-07T07:41:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles Times

Screening Room
HollyShorts Festival: At the Egyptian, every minute counts.
By Susan King, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
August 7, 2008
The 4th Annual Holly- Shorts Festival kicks off this evening at the Egyptian Theatre with Josh Brolin's "X"; Bill Purple's "Hole in the Paper Sky" starring Jessica Biel; Jeff Vespa's "Nosebleed" starring David Arquette; and Alex Ferrari's "Red Princess Blues Animated: The Book of Violence." Friday features a music video celebration at the Nacional in Hollywood. It all then moves to the Laemmle Sunset 5 on Saturday and Sunday where 50 short films will be screened. www.hollyshorts.com

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences examines the sound and the music of animated films with "The Sound Behind the Image II: Now Hear This!" presentation Friday at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater. Sound designer and rerecording mixer Mark Mangini hosts the exploration of sound and the role it plays in animation.

Sunday at the academy's Linwood Dunn Theater, Oscar-nominated composer Michael Giacchino ("Ratatouille") hosts "Normand Roger and the Animation Soundtrack." Roger has scored 13 animated shorts, including six Oscar winners. Also taking part will be Oscar-winning animator Frédéric Back in conjunction with the opening night of the exhibition "Frédéric Back: A Life's Drawings" in the Linwood Dunn lobby. www.oscars.org

During the 1950s and early '60s, director Richard Quine made a series of sharp comedies, films noir and dramas at Columbia -- several with his then-girlfriend Kim Novak. And the Los Angeles County Museum of Art hosts a retrospective that kicks off Friday with 1954's gritty "Pushover," with Fred MacMurray and Novak in her film debut, and "Drive a Crooked Road," penned by Blake Edwards and starring Mickey Rooney. On tap for Saturday is the evocative 1960 melodrama "Strangers When We Meet" with Novak and Kirk Douglas as illicit lovers, and the 1956 comedy "The Solid Gold Cadillac" with Judy Holliday and Paul Douglas. www.lacma.org

The American Cinematheque presents the U.S. premiere Sunday at the Egyptian Theatre of the new animated "Star Wars: The Clone Wars." A benefit for the Cinematheque, director Dave Filoni and producer Catherine Winder will attend.

Tuesday, the Cinematheque honors the late composer Peter Ivers and the release of his biography with a restored print of David Lynch's seminal 1977 "Eraserhead," for which Ivers wrote the song "In Heaven." A discussion with Josh Frank, author of "In Heaven Everything Is Fine," will follow. www.

susan.king@latimes.com

ANGELENO MAGAZINE: LONG AND SHORT OF IT

2008-08-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

Angeleno Magazine The Long and Short of It
The HollyShorts Film Festival started in a tiny, hole-in-the wall theatre in Hollywood four years ago with just 23 films on the roster, but this month, it moves to the Egyptian with more than 70 domestic and international entries. Founded by industry insiders Daniel sol and Theo Dumont (who work, respectively, in distribution at Lionsgate and public relations at MGM), the festival is now gunning to be L.A.’s own Sundance with big names and big independent spirit. Josh Brolin is making his directorial debut with X, a film starring his daughter, eden. David Arquette also stars in an opening-night film, and even Jessica Biel gets in on the action, as both star and producer for a flick called Hole in the Paper Sky. The founding duo---who were basketball teammates while attending high school in Miami---additionally host monthly screenings at the echo Park Film Center, where “higher-ranked entries that don’t make the cut for the festival have the option of screening,” says Dumont. That means the HollyShorts community is a year-round platform and not just a one-off summer celebration. August 7-10. Fri-Sun., times vary. Tickets $10. At the Egyptian theatre, 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood and the Laemmle Sunset 5, 8000 Sunset Blvd. , West Hollywood. www.hollyshorts.com ---Alexis Johnson