Five student film-makers will compete for a top prize of £1000 for generating an exciting and original film inspired by 'Sussex at 50', as the University prepares to celebrate its 50^th anniversary in 2011-12.

Staff, former staff, students, alumni and friends of the University will be able to vote for their favourite after the five finished films are screened for the first time on campus during the 50^th anniversary launch weekend on 10 and 11 September 2011.

The films will also be uploaded on to the University's YouTube channel and a public vote will take place, with the winner being announced at a special ceremony.

The first phase - '50 years in 50 words' - launches today (Monday 22 November) and asks entrants to describe their initial film idea in just 50 words.

The five students with the best ideas will be chosen to produce 10-12 minute short films. 

In the spring term 2011, the five finalists will develop full project outlines for their films, including detailed budget breakdowns. Training, equipment and help assembling a crew will be provided by the Department of Media and Film, who will also mentor the students.

Filming will start at the beginning of the Easter vacation 2011 and the finished films will be submitted in August, in time for the screening at the launch weekend.

Each of the five finalists will receive a cash prize, with £1000 for the overall winner, £500 for second place, £250 for third, and £125 for each of the two runners-up.

Paul Vincent, a production tutor in Media and Film, is helping to organise the competition. He said: "We really hope to get a good mix of entries and ideas - whether it's drama, documentary, or something more leftfield.

"As well as the prize money, successful students will benefit from professional training, great exposure and invaluable experience of budget control and project management.

"We're really excited to see what people come up with."

To enter, students should submit their 50-word entry to film50@sussex.ac.uk by 31 January 2011.

For more information, go to the 50 years webpages or discuss the competition on the 50^th anniversary Facebook page.

The University is holding a series of events and activities over the course of 2011-12 that will recognise its past, celebrate the milestone of 50 years, and look to how it can play a significant role in the future of education and research. 

Back to news list