Press Release from MUFF
Over the last twelve years, MUFF has come to stand for everything that is important in independent cinema; providing a forum for emerging filmmakers, a venue for an audience hungry for alternative screen options, an exhibition platform for the overlooked or the voiceless and a beacon for the underground and anti-establishment.
In the current climate of reducing media options and opinions, the true value of MUFF has never been so relevant or important.
This year, MUFF is looking to continue to grow in both films screened and audience numbers. Its philosophy of bringing the best independent and alternative screen content to the widest possible audience has not waivered. The MUFF 13 program will include showcase local and international feature films, a short film program (MiniMUFF), the MUFF Academy (master-classes with prominent speakers from the local and international film community) and a series of one off, unique events designed to raise the profile of locally produced screen content. MUFF 13 will also again include an audience award competition to reward and encourage participating filmmakers.
At the helm is the unique and inimitable Richard Wolstencroft. Never one to shy away from speaking his mind or standing up for what he believes in, Mr.
Wolstenscroft has at times come up against both personal and professional attacks for his stance on censorship, freedom of speech and the state of the Australian Film Industry and its governing bodies. In 2010 Mr. Wolstencroft was charged and fined for organising a Free Speech Public Disobedience screening of the Bruce LaBruce film LA Zombie after it was pulled from the program of another prominent film festival due to government pressure.
Ongoing attacks on our basic civil rights and freedom of speech have only strengthened his resolve and reinforced why MUFF is so important in a free and democratic society. This year also sees the introduction of a new Festival Co-Producer and Mini-MUFF Program Curator, David Leadbetter, an international award winning producer and freelancer in the Australian film & TV industry.
Mr. Wolstencroft says, “We are proud to have David on our team as he brings not only his organising and logistics skills, but also his knowledge and experience of the local film industry. We do not always see eye to eye, but diversity within the MUFF family is why we are able to offer the film loving public the broadest range of viewing experiences”.
Film submissions to MUFF 13 are now open until the deadline of the 22nd of June 2012. The entry form is available via www.muff.com.au. MUFF 13 is also seeking volunteers to assist with the running of this year’s festival.