The Chicago International Children's Film Festival is now accepting applications for Young Chicago Critics, the premiere film criticism and production summer camp for Chicago kids 7-14. Due to overwhelming response from previous summers, it has now expanded its acclaimed program to two sessions to accommodate a full 150 children. This year's camp takes place at Facets Multi-Media (1517 W. Fullerton) June 20 - 29 and July 9 - 18.
For eight production-packed days, Young Chicago Critics gives students the filmmaking experience necessary to write, produce and make their own films, offering them hours of hands-on instruction in filmmaking. Designed for kids with little or no experience in making movies, Young Chicago Critics equips students with the skills and confidence needed to produce a well-told story with moving images, as they work with fellow team members to create their own mini-movie.
Young Chicago Critics closes with a graduation ceremony for friends and family. Graduating critics will receive a diploma, which qualifies them to participate in the Chicago International Children's Film Festival's Children's Jury in August. Each YCC graduate receives a copy of their finished video, which will be submitted to film festivals worldwide, as well as a complementary membership to the Facets Future Filmmakers film club that includes: free movie previews, free kids rentals at Facets, Festival discounts and access to workshops.
Three lucky YCC participants ages 12-14 will also go on to attend the acclaimed Giffoni Film Festival in Italy, as members of Giffoni's Free To Fly jury.
The cost of the YCC program is $325 per child and the deadline for application is April 6. Early registration is advised as registration is on a first- come, first-served basis.
For more information about the Young Chicago Critics Program, contact Kathleen Beckman at (773) 281-9075, email kidsfest@facets.org or log onto www.facets.org/ycc to download an application.
