THE Transport Accident Commission is encouraging Victorian film students aged between 18 and 25 to enter a short-film idea which features a message about the dangers of using phones while driving in its latest \u201cSplit Second Film Competition\u201d.<\/p>\n
Partnering with the Melbourne International Film Festival for the second year running, the TAC launched the Split Second Film Competition in the hope of illustrating to young drivers how a careless moment can be life-threatening.<\/p>\n
Megan Jacobs, TAC engagement senior manager, said the competition gives aspiring filmmakers a chance to showcase the depth of their creativity.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a great opportunity for Victoria\u2019s budding young creatives to get some real experience in the film industry, while also starting a conversation with their peers about road safety,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis competition will not only reach young Victorians eager to support road safety, but the thousands of people who attend the hundreds of screenings throughout the festival.\u201d<\/p>\n
Judged by a panel of film and advertising industry professionals, the winning movie buff will receive a $5,000 prize and will work alongside a professional production company to bring their concept to life using a $50,000 budget.<\/p>\n
The completed film will be premiered before all MIFF screenings throughout the festival and the regional travelling showcase, which features over 530 films.<\/p>\n
Ms Jacobs said it was important young people involved themselves in sending strong road safety messages as they are the most vulnerable people on Victorian roads.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn their first year of driving, young drivers in Victoria are almost four times more likely to be involved in a fatal or serious injury crash than more experienced drivers,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s why it\u2019s so important that we continue to find new and innovative ways to engage with them and send crucial road safety messages.\u201d<\/p>\n
Entries will be judged on creativity, originality, a road safety messaged centred on distracted driving and the delivery of a \u201cturn your phone off in the cinema\u201d message.<\/p>\n
Entries for the competition open today and close on May 6, with the winner announced on May 24.<\/p>\n