Lexus Short Films Now Open to New Zealand Filmmakers

“The Lexus Short Films series is an excellent way to recognise new filmmakers and bring attention to the short film format,” said TWC co-chairman Harvey Weinstein.

“Over the past two years we have seen that there is an incredible amount of undiscovered talent. We are thrilled to once again partner with Lexus on this exciting endeavour and continue to discover and shine a light on up-and-coming filmmakers from around the world.”

Lexus New Zealand General Manager of Marketing Andrew Davis said the new format of Lexus Short Films would open the way for New Zealand’s distinct film talent.
“New Zealand has an incredibly strong reputation for producing world class filmmakers and this extends to the short film format as well.

“We are thrilled that New Zealand filmmakers have the opportunity to showcase their talent on the world stage using this incredible global partnership with Lexus and The Weinstein Company.”

The theme for 2015 is “Anticipation” – a word that is a provocative and nuanced thought-starter providing filmmakers with an innovative platform for their imaginations.

Filmmakers are invited to interpret the meaning for their own narrative and to tell a story based around their vision.

Submissions close 25 October 2015 where four finalists will then be selected and announced during the closing ceremonies of the Napa Valley Film Festival on November 15. Production of the films will begin in December 2015.

The four finalists will direct short films that will be produced and receive first look deals courtesy of The Weinstein Company.

The films will receive promotional theatrical distribution, as well as participate in a tour of top film festivals around the world to promote their films. Filmmakers will also receive an at-home filmmaking and editing suite.

Last month the Lexus Short Films team, including Producer Joey Horvitz, Executive Producer Lance Still and Loïc Charlon of Lexus International, will hit the road and attend film festivals around the world to promote the submission process, including New Filmmakers LA, the Rhode Island International Film Festival, Venice Film Festival, Vancouver International Film Festival and Napa Valley Film Festival.

Select regions will host a premiere event and filmmaker panel for each film at top short film festivals starting in June 2016. The filmmakers will return to the 2016 Napa Valley Film Festival where all four films will be shown together for the first time in a world premiere event.