Abu Dhabi, UAE, October 20th, 2013: Following the success of the annual short film competition, Image Nation Abu Dhabi announced the return of its successful Arab Film Studio (AFS) today.

The popular competition which sees amateur film makers from across the region compete for a 50,000 AED development grant is accepting entries now for the initial bootcamp stages which will begin in January 2014.

AFS, which was launched in conjunction with twofour54, provides a unique opportunity for aspiring filmmakers to learn the tools of the trade and get their break in the industry.

Michael Garin, CEO of Image Nation, commented: “Image Nation is committed to developing Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE as a filmmaking hub, seeking to attract local, regional and international film talent and production. We are excited to see the fresh talent that is uncovered during the competition this year.”

The new 2014 competition will be opened for entries until the 12th December 2012, with eligible contestants able to enter by uploading a one to three minute short film on Vimeo. Submissions can be filmed in any format, on anything from a mobile phone to an HD camera, and can be in English or Arabic with no subtitles required.

If successful in the initial submission phase, twelve finalists will be selected to take part in a three-month multi-disciplinary training program held in partnership with twofour54. Here they will be given access to leading film professionals who will provide them with insider knowledge of the film industry.

Following the bootcamp stage, contestants will be asked to develop and produce their own short film with the help of mentors and skills acquired during bootcamp. The films will be judged by a panel of industry experts from around the world to choose the winner, who will receive a 50,000 AED development deal with Image Nation Abu Dhabi.

Last year’s winner, Sara Saber from Dubai won the Best Film award for a moving piece about a mother and daughters tough relationship.

Mohammed Al Mubarak, Chairman of Image Nation Abu Dhabi, commented: “Image Nation Abu Dhabi continues to be committed to the development and support of aspiring filmmakers in the UAE, and Arab Film Studio is a key initiative in developing filmmaking talent.

“The competition provides a unique opportunity for aspiring filmmakers to learn from industry professionals and our trusted partners such as Twofour54, who provide best in-class training and the experience to see firsthand what it takes to produce a short film from scripting to screen. We look forward to receiving our first submissions!”

For more information on entry and competition details, visit www.arabfilmstudio.com or follow the competition on twitter @ArabFilmStudio or facebook http://www.facebook.com/arabfilmstudio