FilmL.A. to Recruit Water Conservation Filmmakers

Rain Bird announced on May 13 a partnership with FilmL.A. in support of the third annual Intelligent Use of Water™ Film Competition. The environmentally focused film competition showcases creative filmmakers and the power of film to spur discussion of responsible water use.

A nonprofit organization that coordinates filming permits in and around Los Angeles, FilmL.A. works to strike a balance between the needs and interests of the entertainment industry and the neighborhoods affected by on-location production. FilmL.A. joins Questex Media Group as an event partner in helping to recruit filmmakers with a passion for water conservation.

The competition seeks short films (narrative, documentary, animated, experimental and/or student-made films between 1 and 10 minutes in length) that creatively explore methods and ideas to responsibly manage and use Earth's most precious resource. Films submitted by Aug. 15, will be reviewed by a judging panel of film and water management experts. Finalists will win a trip to Los Angeles, where they will be guests at a formal screening and awards show hosted at The Getty Center on Sept. 23.

“As a Southern California-based company, we are excited to have FilmL.A. join us in providing a forum in which inspired filmmakers can actively raise awareness of this important issue,” said Dave Johnson, Rain Bird's corporate marketing director. “Now in its third year, the Intelligent Use of Water Film Competition shines the light on outdoor water conservation by linking the entertainment and green industries in support of a sustainable environment.”

Philip Sokoloski, the organization's communications manager, will join the panel of judges at the competition's final screening event. “Heading into the summer, and with much of California facing severe to moderate drought, now is the time to think about how we can all better manage and conserve water,” said Sokoloski.

Three awards will be presented: $6,000 for the Jury Award; $3,000 for the Audience Choice Award; and $6,000 for the new Green Industry Award. The Green Industry Award, presented in partnership with Questex, is open to professionals who design, install, and maintain green spaces. Films must be submitted electronically as a .mov, .wmv, .avi or .mpg file no later than 11:59 p.m. (PDT) on Aug. 15, via the competition Web site, www.IUOWFILM.com.