Shreveport Announces Top 20 Finalists for the 2024 Louisiana Film Prize
In an exciting reveal for film enthusiasts, Shreveport is buzzing with energy following the announcement of the Top 20 finalists for the 2024 Louisiana Film Prize. The announcement took place on Friday, August 9, during a special event at the Robinson Film Center, where filmmakers from across the country gathered to witness this year’s contenders.
A Competitive Selection Process
Choosing the finalists was no small feat. Gregory Kallenberg, the founder of the Louisiana Film Prize, remarked on the challenging task faced by the global jury, emphasizing that the selected films truly represent outstanding talent. “These 20 films were incredibly difficult for our global Film Prize Jury to select, but I believe that they made the right choices,” Kallenberg stated.
What’s at Stake?
The finalists are in the running for a whopping 50,000 dollars, marking it as one of the largest cash prizes in the world for a narrative short film. This prize isn’t just a financial incentive but is a significant acknowledgment within the indie film community.
Meet the Top 20 Finalists
Here’s a look at the talented finalists along with their respective films:
- Baila: Directed by Kelly Sherman
- Blood and Milk: Directed by Eve Crusto
- Chicken Bones: Directed by Abby Waters
- Connected: Directed by Melissa Goslin
- Fast: Directed by Clayton Henderson
- Game Day Ritual: Directed by Alejandro de los Rios
- Love is Neat: Directed by Taylor Deville
- Mallets: Directed by Adrian Jordan Jr
- Memories for Tomorrow: Directed by Matthew Eli Judd
- Miniature Life: Directed by Stevie Cavalier
- Most Likely to Succeed: Directed by Ty and Rachael Hudson
- Napoleonic Code: Directed by Michael Cusumano
- Plaid Skirts: Directed by Kat Durel
- Sex Date: Directed by Mike Nicholas
- Stall to Stall: Directed by Kaitlyn Brown
- The Stage: Directed by Jeremy Enis
- Three Sessions: Directed by Erica Michelle Singleton
- Toots: Directed by Chris Alan Evans
- Trip: Directed by Mack Cormier
- Vice: Directed by Jency Hogan
Filmmaking in Louisiana
To qualify for this prestigious prize, filmmakers must create their short films in the state of Louisiana. Kallenberg emphasizes the significance of the local film industry, stating, “Our town and our state have become a beacon for creators, and these filmmakers definitely showed up and did amazing work.”
A Record-Setting Year
This year has shone a light on diversity and inclusion within the film community, with the Prize experiencing its largest percentage of female filmmakers, the highest number of entries from BIPOC filmmakers, and a significant number of first-time filmmakers.
What’s Next?
Mark your calendars! The 2024 finalists will have their films showcased during the Prize Fest, happening from October 16-19. This delightful event brings together a blend of film, food, music, and comedy, and it promises to be a celebration of creativity and talent in Shreveport. The films will be screened in various theaters around Shreveport and Bossier from October 17-19.
For more details on the films and the festival, keep an eye out for updates!
