Leeds Young Film Intern Lauren (@RenMayJones), tells us about Mediafish, and why they are ensuring that young people’s views are at the heart of the Leeds Young People’s Film Festival.
I am a student of English and Film and have been working for the Leeds Young People’s Film Festival at a voluntary level for the past few months. Following a summer placement with Leeds International Film Festival I realised just how important these events are and why film festivals should continue to be attended and appreciated. Being involved with Leeds Young Film has heightened my passion for film and opened my eyes to a mass of young talent, which, without events such as the festival, would otherwise go unseen.
The two main aspects of the festival I have been involved in both rely on the input of young people: The Mediafish are a group of young consultants who present Leeds Young People’s Film Festival, and, the INDIs is a competition which invites young, independent filmmakers to showcase their work. This injection of youth into the event keeps the programme fresh and up-to-date with young people’s interests as well as offering a platform for young people to explore, develop and show off their own talent.
The INDIs competition is a great platform for young filmmakers to present their work, and every single entry reflects the creativity and thought which goes into creating a film. It is extremely positive to see such a level of talent, as these young directors, producers and camera operators may be entertaining us all a few years down the line!
As a student, I am aware of the negative stereotypes often associated with teenagers and young adults. However, the work that goes into preparing for the festival, including reviewing films, finalising the programme and coming up with new ideas, is all contributed to by the Mediafish. Look out for the Mediafish logo at leedsyoungfilm.com to see some of the contributions they make. The ‘Fish’ represent a generation that is genuinely interested in the arts and cultural events, with an admirable amount of creativity and commitment. Furthermore, young people who attend the festival are broadening their horizons to a host of alternative types of cinema that challenge the mainstream, as well as developing their own interests – whether it be science-fiction, video gaming or doing some filmmaking of their own.
This year the festival turns 13, but by no means will it become a lazy teenager… what could be a better birthday present than to scrap the stereotypes and offer everybody a positive representation of young people in Leeds and the UK today? Happy Birthday to us!
Find Lauren on Twitter @RenMayJones
Leeds Young People’s Film Fesitval’s opening gala is on Wednesday, and there is a packed programme ahead of that. See all the details on their website www.leedsyoungfilm.com.
Mike McKenny is The Culture Vulture’s film editor. If you have any film related stories, articles, reviews with a twist, etc, contact him on mike.mckenny1983@gmail.com or find him on Twitter @DestroyApathy