Film comp aim to preserve the power of antibiotics

Budding filmmakers and enthusiasts are encouraged to submit films with the theme of “Preserve the Power” depicting the impacts of bacteria becoming resistant to the power of antibiotics to NPS MedicineWise.

The Review on Antimicrobial Resistance, commissioned by the UK Prime Minister in 2014 estimates that if antibiotic resistance continues to spread, the problem will cause 10 million deaths globally by 2050.

Australia has one of the highest antibiotic prescription rates globally, with more than 30 million prescriptions issued annually.

To meet the growing call on home soil for building awareness of this critical issue, American Express Openair Cinemas and NPS MedicineWise are offering a prize pool of $10,000 in cash prizes for the two winning films which best convey this significant message.

The competition will be split into two categories; individuals under 18 and Australian residents over the age of 18. Each 30-second short film will be captured on a smartphone or camera.

American Express Openair Cinemas director of cinemas Will Sparks said: “Emerging filmmakers, creatives, videographers and vloggers are invited to use their cinematic prowess to raise awareness about this global health threat”.

“We are excited by the challenge this presents to local talent and how their storytelling techniques can inspire the community to take action.”

The deadline has been extended, with entrants now able to submit films until this Sunday, January 7.

Entrants will need to create a 30-second short film that explores any genre, be it horror, comedy, documentary, musical or drama. A shortlist of top films will be aired at the eight American Express Openair Cinemas locations across Australia in front of thousands of people.

Each 30-second short film will be judged by a panel of industry experts, with winners announced at the Bondi Beach activation on February 28.

For full submission requirements and more information about antibiotic resistance, head to nps.org.au/preservethepower.