STUDENT DRAMA SCOOPS POOL AT NEW FILMMAKERS AWARDS

A period drama produced by QUT film students has dominated the Warner Roadshow Studios Queensland New Filmmakers Awards (QNFA), winning six categories at tonight’s ceremony.

Arts Minister Rod Welford said Julian, a short film written and directed by Brisbane’s Tom Noakes, won six out of 30 categories, including Best Overall Film, Most Popular Film, Most Original Script and Most Outstanding Cinematography.

“The QNFAs are Australia’s largest industry-sponsored new filmmaker awards and offer tremendous support for our emerging filmmakers,” Mr Welford said.

“These awards encompass all areas of filmmaking from direction and writing to acting and sound.

“For the past 21 years these awards have helped launch the careers of countless film industry professionals.

“It is a privilege to watch the next generation of Queensland filmmakers – including the likes of Tom Noakes – receive recognition for the time, effort and resources they have put into their craft.”

Mr Welford also congratulated Mark Chapman, of Big Island Pictures, who received the prestigious Kinetone Award in recognition of his ongoing encouragement and support of the Queensland’s emerging filmmakers.

“More than 100 nominations were received for the QNFA’s this year,” he said.

“The winners were selected by a panel of industry professionals who considered criteria such as originality, creativity and technical skill.

“The QNFAs have been held as part of the Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF) for the first time this year.

“BIFF also showcases emerging Queensland filmmakers and their films have received a terrific response from local audiences.

“The 11-day festival wraps up on Sunday with the closing feature, A Mighty Heart.”

The 2007 QNFA winners are: