Optus has opened entries for its five-minute film competition, Connect5, aimed at Australian filmmakers, videographers, vloggers, animators, or anyone with a creative idea and a smartphone. Ben White, Managing Director of Marketing and Product at Optus, explained that filmmakers have until 1 October 2017 to submit an original short film which encapsulates how lives change for the better when people reach out and connect with each other.
“As an entertainment brand Optus is passionate about supporting new content creators and nourishing creative talent. We believe we can help kick-start the careers of aspiring filmmakers by sharing their work across our platforms and showcasing their talent to our large base of customers who are passionate about great entertainment.” Mr. White commented “Connecting people is at the heart of what we do at Optus, so we look forward to seeing talented filmmakers’ interpretations of ‘Connecting Lives’ and to hearing their stories about how connection fosters love and hope.”
Two winners of Optus’ Australian Connect5 competition will each receive a AU$10,000 cash prize plus a trip with a friend to Singapore for the regional finals in November. At the regional finals, the winners from Australia will go head-to-head with winners from short film competitions in Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, and Thailand for the chance to win a further US$30,000 as the grand winner or US$15,000 as the runner-up. Additional prizes of US$3,000 and US$2,000 will be awarded to the winner and runner-up of a regional people’s choice competition which will be voted for by the general public.
Entries to the Australian competition will be judged by a panel of industry experts including filmmaker and writer Genevieve Clay-Smith who is a Connect5 ambassador and judge
“Getting noticed in a competitive industry is one of the biggest hurdles facing aspiring Australian filmmakers.” Genevieve Clay-Smith commented “Connect5 presents an opportunity for filmmakers to elevate their profile and showcase their work to millions of people on an international stage. If you’re looking to make a name for yourself in the film industry – whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or you’re shooting your first film on a smartphone – I’d encourage you to get involved with Connect5 and get noticed.”

For full submission requirements and to enter Connect5 visit optus.com.au/connect5 between now and 1 October 2017.