BC Film + Media and CBC Television today announced the launch of their third annual theme-based short film competition, Signature Shorts.

This year, BC screenwriters will be asked to submit eight-minute dramatic scripts based on the theme of "Redemption." Applicants will have to act quickly as they have just a few short weeks to meet the May 5th deadline.

"Signature Shorts is a perfect opportunity for BC writers to put a fresh twist on an age-old topic. We want writers to stretch their imaginations for what I'm sure will be another inspiring competition," says Rae Hull, Senior Director of Network Programming and Regional Director in BC for CBC Television.

"The first two years of this program have sparked great interest and many terrific scripts," says Rob Egan, President and CEO of BC Film + Media. "We look forward to this opportunity for writers from all parts of British Columbia to showcase their talent."

In June, ten applicants will be short-listed and given the opportunity to participate in an intensive pitching workshop led by BC Film + Media and CBC Television. Up to three projects will be selected to go into production for future broadcast on CBC Television. Finalists will receive $16,000 in production financing and $30,000 in production facilities to bring their screenplay to life.

The Alibi Unplugged Script Reading Series will assist with coordination of the competition in association with CBC Television and BC Film + Media. Other program sponsors for the 2003 competition include Finale Editworks, which will contribute post-production services and Line 21, which will provide close-captioning services.

For additional information, please contact:

Jill Webber Hrabinsky,
TV Program Marketing Coordinator
CBC Communications
Vancouver (604) 662-6680
mailto:jill_hrabinsky@cbc.ca