Calling all young filmmakers (aged 7-18)! Do you dream of seeing your movie on the big screen? HotHouse is a fantastic program designed to help you turn that dream into reality. It’s a unique opportunity to learn, create, and launch your filmmaking career.
Poster credit: eugene_hotsauce
How to Get Involved:
Your journey begins with entering the Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year competition. From the entries, potential HotHouse participants are selected. Everyone who enters gets to write a “treatment” for a short film (this year, the topic was on the theme “Home”) —think of it as a blueprint for your movie. You’ll also participate in a helpful scriptwriting masterclass.
A panel of film experts and representatives from Fresh Film then chooses eight talented young filmmakers to join the HotHouse program.
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What’s in it for you?
- Mentorship: You’ll work online with experienced film mentors from all over Ireland. They’ll guide you through the filmmaking process, sharing their expertise and helping you polish your project.
- Funding: HotHouse provides €1,000 to fund your short film. This money can be used for equipment, actors, locations, or anything else you need to bring your vision to life.
- Premiere: Your finished film will premiere at the prestigious Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF)! Imagine seeing your work on the big screen at a real film festival.
- Broadcast: The same day as the DIFF premiere, your film will also be available to watch on the RTÉ Player under “Fresh Screens,” making it accessible to audiences across Ireland.
Why HotHouse is a Game Changer:
HotHouse is the first program of its kind in Ireland, offering young filmmakers a unique blend of training, support, and exposure. It’s a chance to:
- Gain experience: Learn how to manage a film budget and work in a professional setting.
- Tell your story: Share your perspective on themes relevant to young people, like school, family, and growing up.
- Boost your career: HotHouse can be a stepping stone to a future in the film industry.
The program is backed by major players like Screen Ireland, RTÉ, and the Arts Council, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing young talent. All HotHouse films meet professional standards, ensuring high quality and wide accessibility.
Ready to make your mark on the Irish film scene? Keep an eye out for the Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year competition and get ready to create something amazing!
Fresh Film Festival?
The Fresh International Film Festival and IYFTY Awards ignite young minds, inspiring them to pursue careers in film. By providing hands-on experience in visual storytelling and collaborative filmmaking, Fresh empowers the next generation of Irish talent. Through the generous support of our partners, we aim to foster a vibrant and sustainable future for Irish film and television.
Fresh Film, the Fresh International Film Festival, and Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards are made possible through the generous support, investment, and partnership of: the Arts Council of Ireland, RTÉ, Screen Ireland, Omniplex Cinema Group, Limerick City and County Council, Coimisiún na Meán, Limerick & Clare Education & Training Board, Screen Producers Ireland, The Radharc Trust, Animation Ireland, Bow Street Academy, IFCO and RTÉ Supporting the Arts.
