The region's young film-makers are creating especially high quality videos — thanks to more chances to get their hands on the cameras and edit kit.
That was the verdict of this year's RTS Young People's Video Showcase, which received a record 59 entries.
More than 150 people from across the region gathered for two simultaneous afternoon screenings, hosted by BBC Look North weather presenter Trai Anfield.
The 19th Showcase was held for the first time at the University of Teesside, a supporter of the event for the last five years.
Welcoming the senior film-makers to the Europa Building cinemas, the Vice-Chancellor Graham Henderson praised their work. He pointed out past entrants had gone on to take university courses and win jobs in the media industry — he urged the audience to continue to follow their interest in video.
Pat White, Deputy Director of Lifelong Learning, told the juniors: "Every year this event is becoming more and more popular. I'm sure we're seeing here some film-makers of the future."
Byker Grove actors Jonny Ferguson and Sammy Dobson presented certificates to all the entrants.
Their advice for the future? "Show commitment," said Sammy. "Keep on making films — when you apply for courses or jobs, people will be impressed."
But she and Jonny made clear that the reality can be exhausting rather than glamorous. "There's 6am starts. You can never go shopping with your friends on Saturday — you're too busy."
Trai urged film-makers to develop their own style, not copy others. "Don't sit back. Get out there and make your own luck."
All the videos were assessed by a Viewing Panel which included industry professionals. Specific feedback was provided for all entrants, together with a summary of the main points.
The Panel was impressed by the increase in young people using their own cameras, editing and graphics software. It meant they could spend many more hours on projects rather than being limited to using school equipment at set times.
They also noted that more entrants were relying on commercial music as their soundtracks. Whilst this was a valuable training stage, they recommended that young people aimed to create their own sound in future projects.
In another first for the Showcase, a magazine will be distributed to schools and youth groups after the event with advice and the stories behind many of the video entries. This has been funded by Northern Film and Media, who co-sponsored the Showcase along with the University of Teesside Meteor Project and Zenith North (makers of Byker Grove for BBC ONE).
YOUNG PRODUCERS TRAVEL IN TIME
Bullying, wartime history, a time machine and a trip round Darlington were among the videos entered in the Junior section of the Showcase. Usman Amin, Waham Akhtar and Wagaas Mahmood used still pictures and clay figures to tell the story of Badboy Badger. Their certificates were collected by fellow pupils from Stockton (pictured above) from Sammy Dobson and Jonny Ferguson.
TAKING THE CREDIT
Brothers Richard and James Stark, and their friend Eddie McHale are difficult to beat for multiskilling. They wrote, acted, produced, filmed and edited their own 35-minute production The Last Scream.
And then they did it again! Last Stand of Combat was the result.
Their dramas were amongst the entries to the Senior category of the 2006 Showcase. The team (pictured above) are now working on a feature film about a robbery — altered to a depot raid after recent news developments.
SHOWCASE MAGAZINE
This 16-page Showcase magazine summarises some of the best tips and case studies to emerge from the day. There’s also advice on seeking funding, how best to screen your work, and other festivals you might like to enter. The magazine has been funded by Northern Film and Media, with support from the Royal Television Society and the University of Teesside, and is being mailed to schools and colleges throughout the area — we hope you enjoy it.
You can download a 1MB PDF version if you click here, or email NETB Webmaster to request a copy.