Details of ‘60 Seconds of Fame’, an innovative short film initiative from the British Academy of Film & Television Arts in association with Orange, are announced today.‘60 Seconds of Fame’ was launched by BAFTA and Orange in 2006 and attracted more than 300 entries. Budding filmmakers are invited to submit a 60 second short film, based on the theme ‘unite’. BAFTA juries will choose the shortlisted films in each of 15 UK regions and the public will vote for their favourite film in their area. The winner from each region will win two tickets to the Orange British Academy Film Awards on Sunday 10 February, 2008. The overall winner will be chosen by a BAFTA jury and announced at the ceremony. The winning film will feature as part of the BBC One broadcast of the event. The first ever winner of ‘60 Seconds of Fame’ was Alex Garcia, for his short film ‘Happy Birthday Granddad’. Alex comments: Since our win, my creative partner Wayne Yip and I have filmed a music video for Domino Records and are now part of the BBC Film Network which has been screening our work. 'We were also lucky enough to make the Best of Brits ‘07, which took place in LA in October. In short winning ‘60 Seconds of Fame’ has opened up many doors but most importantly opened our eyes to what awaits us if we work hard.'Supporting the initiative is actor Andy Serkis, (The Lord of Rings trilogy and Sugar House), who will be making his directorial debut next year with Freezing Time.

Andy said 'I’m delighted to be involved with this initiative as I know how hard it is to get your foot on the filmmaking ladder.

'I’ve worked on a lot of effects heavy films but you don’t need millions of pounds to make an entertaining feature. At the heart of it you only need a good idea, a camera and a passion to share your vision.

'The purpose of ‘60 Seconds of Fame’ is to encourage creativity and to actively encourage the public to participate in the filmmaking process.

'The website supports the film-loving public by giving them the tools and technical guidance to create their own short film. Anybody aged 16 and over can enter. The ‘60 Seconds of Fame site’ at www.orange.co.uk/bafta goes live today and the deadline for entries is 5pm on 4 January, 2008.'

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