The International Cancer Sucks Film Festival. A festival that showcases your films and also raises vital funds for cancer research. By submitting your film you have the chance to be screened to a panel of film industry judges. 90% of the submission fee will be donated to Cancer Research UK. The festival is open to films of any genre and from anywhere in the world. As long as your film is under 15 minutes and English is the main language (or has English subtitles) we welcome your submission.

Festival web page: http://greengirlprod.wix.com/cancersucksfilmfest

FilmFreeway listing: https://filmfreeway.com/festival/TheInternationalCancerSucksFilmFest

 Interview with Matt Aucott:

1) What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

The main purpose for the festival is to be a platform for independent film, where filmmakers from around the globe are able to reach a London audience and also raise much needed funds & awareness for cancer research.

2) What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

The ICSFF is a one day event and a showcase for short films. Attendees will get the chance to view the official selection, also a chance to network with other likeminded filmmakers and film industry experts. We want the festival to be a open platform for filmmakers to discuss and share their experiences as filmmakers. There maybe a glass of wine or two involved as well!

3) What are the qualifications for the selected films?

We have given our selection committee no fixed qualifiers for the selections process. The festival is open to films of any genre. Regardless of the filmmakers experience or budget we’re looking for innovative and captivating storytelling. We especially welcome films from female and ethnically diverse filmmakers.

4) Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

I completely agree with this. With so many more filmmakers entering into festivals now days, It’s increasingly difficult to get past the selection process. I was informed by another film director that the rejection rate for festivals is now around the 90% mark. I believe because of this many great films, especially in the low to no budget end of the spectrum, are just not getting the exposure they deserve.

5) What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

I think the answer to this is in the name of our festival. Last year a very good friend of mine lost someone close to them through cancer. Another friend was also diagnosed with cancer at the end of 2015. These two events reminded me that when I was much younger I lost my Grandfather to cancer on Christmas day of all days. Even if you’re lucky enough never to be diagnosed with cancer yourself, in your life you will know a friend, work colleague or family member who will. Cancer in one form or another will touch your life. As filmmakers we are not going to find the cure for cancer ourselves, but next best thing is to use our skills to raise vital funds for cancer research. By holding this festival we hope to both celebrate independent film and raise funds for a very good cause.

6) Where do you see the festival by 2020?

This is the first year of the festival, going forward we plan to be an annul forum in London for filmmakers and continue to support cancer research.

7) What film have you seen the most times in your life?

Not any easy question to answer, many to chose from. I guess the one film that I’ve watched the most is Blade Runner. I’m very intrigued to see what Scott has planned for the sequel, It’s just a shame that Jordan Cronenweth is no longer with us to shoot the next instalment.

8) In one sentence, what makes a great film?

No matter your experience or budget. As long as your film has a captivating story that compels your audience to watch, you have a great film.

9) How is the film scene in your city?

London is a world hub for independent film. We’re experiencing a small renascence in it’s film industry at the moment with many great filmmakers entering onto the world circuit. With a large filmmaking community, London is a great place to be a filmmaker.

The ICSFF will take place on the 1st of May. The final deadline will be on the 20th of April. If you have anymore questions or you need any more info on the festival, Let me know

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go to http://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.