National Youth Film Festival Returns In August

BRANSON – Youth from across the nation will gather in Branson August 5-8 to attend FilmFest 4-H, a youth-oriented national film festival. This will mark the second year for FilmFest 4-H, which is the only event of its kind on a national level. Festivalgoers enjoy activities, networking opportunities, and learning from television and film industry professionals who have been attached to projects youth and adults will recognize.

Last year’s inaugural film festival brought youth from seven states who screened films and attended workshops in such areas as lighting, acting and sound production. In addition to returning favorites, several new workshops are lined up for 2012 on topics such as casting, editing and cinematography. Youth may enter films in the Narrative, Documentary, Animation and 4-H Promotional categories.

Though the objective is fun, it’s the educational value that matters most, according to Bradd Anderson, state 4-H youth specialist. “Filmmaking is a great way to build skills in things like self-expression, problem-solving and critical thinking,” Anderson said. “And if a young person wants to explore a career path in film, meet professionals who work in the industry and ask lots of questions, what better venue is there than a film festival?”

FilmFest 4-H is open to all 4-H youth, ages 11-18, as well as groups from other youth-serving organizations. Information is available online at http://4h.missouri.edu/filmfest, via email at andersonb@missouri.edu or by calling MU Extension’s 4-H Center for Youth Development at 573-882-1024.