A group of leading industry professionals from architecture, film and television have come together to launch ‘FOURWALLS’, a filmmaking project created to widen the debate on housing in London and engage a broad spectrum of Londoners on the issue. Developed by David Lammy MP, the FOURWALLS project is appealing to people across the capital to create their own three-minute videos about their experiences and perspectives on living in the capital for the chance to win up to £1,000.
FOURWALLS will screen the shortlisted films at the renowned London Short Film Festival in the new year. Three winning videos will be announced at the festival by a judging panel, chaired by David Lammy MP, and comprised of industry leading figures including Michael Winterbottom, Amanda Levete, Dominic Minghella, Kwame Kwei Armah OBE and John Akomfrah.
The project has been put together in response to the growing need for an answer to the housing crisis, a desire to break out of the tired extremes of either the perfect penthouse or the foreboding tower block and a growing need to understand more about the issues that Londoners really care about. The aim is to gather the views and perspectives of people living in London at a time where rising house prices and rents are affecting the way that people live and interact with the city. The project also aims to showcase independent filmmaking in London and highlight the abundance of talent in the capital.
Philip Ilson, Creative Director of the London Short Film Festival says: ‘We are supportive of London based film initiatives, particularly if they hold a spotlight on our city. We celebrate the creativity of London annually, but are also aware of the more negative aspects of London living. This project brings together filmmakers to help highlight issues that affect every Londoner, and we are excited to see the work that is produced.’
Now in its twelfth year, the London Short Film Festival will take place over ten days from Friday 9th – Sunday 18th January 2015 at the ICA and Hackney Picture House, combining over 375 independent shorts, live music events, filmmaker retrospectives, training, parties and art. Renowned for its daring cross-arts programming, the festival showcases the very best of the country’s talent.
Films must be submitted between today and the 31st December to be considered. Films can be submitted in any format, including animation. Those wishing to get involved should visit www.fourwalls.london for more information.
