ÉCU-The European Independent Film Festival

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Hello ÉCU-ers and ÉCU-ettes!

The month of July brings many things to Paris. Hordes of
anglo-tourists, the Paris-Plages, a sweltering sun that never fails to
remind us of the Frenchman’s aversion to A/C. With this onslaught of
nuisances, many Parisians take this time to escape the hell of urban
summers for a more pleasant environment. Scott, the wise man that he is,
took a cue from the Parisians and fled the city for a balmier option,
Australia. While he lays upon beaches, enjoying the surf and sand of his
homeland, his minions dutifully hold down the ÉCU fort here in the 18th
arrondissement.

Although Paris is seeped in summer laziness, submissions are in
full-swing. Though the call for submissions was just in May, we have
already received a large amount of films. Coming in daily, they are
pouring in from all over the world.
This month, we launched a new category for our 2012 edition – “European
Youth Film”. Those who submit will be competing for the esteemed
“European Youth Excellence Award in Filmmaking”. Dedicated to young
filmmakers aged 8 to 16, this category accepts films of any genre,
length or language (though English or French subtitles are required). We
are excited to present this opportunity to the youth of filmmaking and
anticipate the creativity and spirit that this category will bring us.

As the summer months roll on, our 2011 “ÉCU on the Road” tour
continues. An ÉCU representative recently attended the In the Palace
Film Festival held in Balchik, Bulgaria, which boasted over 150
international filmmakers. Directors from all over the globe submitted
their tales of love and loss under four categories: fiction, animation,
experimental and documentary. Two of their award-winning films, “Red in
the Water” and “Beats of Love” have been submitted to ÉCU.

Later this month, our festival manager, Kadi Lokk, is jetting off for
the annual Avanca Film Festival. The 14th edition will be held in
Avanca, Portugal from July 20-24. Defined as an international meeting of
cinema, TV, video and multimedia, Kadi is eager to see the film talent
that awaits her in Avanca!

With new submissions every day, there’s a lot going on! Until the
next newsletter, you can stay up-to-date by visiting our website and
social media channels!