3rd LA Comedy Shorts Film Fest and Screenplay Competition: big laughs, huge opps

In the Spotlight this week is the 3rd Annual L.A. COMEDY SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL AND SCREENPLAY COMPETITION (LACSFF), a celebration of up-and-coming comedic filmmakers and writers that launches careers while promoting the genre. In its brief tenure, LACSFF has grown to become one of the nation's largest comedy festivals, and has earned top accolades, having been named one of the "Top Ten Film Festivals in the U.S." by the Brooks Institute and one of the "25 Festivals Worth the Fee" by Moviemaker Magazine.

Co-founded by Gary Anthony Williams ("Boston Legal"), L.A. Comedy Shorts attracts heavyweights from the world of comedy. Major sponsors include Will Ferrell and Judd Apatow's own FunnyorDie, the Cartoon Network, Atom TV on Comedy Central, and Freemantle's Atomic Wedgie. Jane Lynch, Laraine Newman, Dax Shepard, Julie Bowen, Patrick Warburton, Aisha Tyler, and Bobcat Goldthwait are just a few of the past celebrity participants. But exhibiting filmmakers need not worry about being overshadowed by their star wattage, because everyone's a VIP at LACSFF; mingling with comedians, industry players, and other filmmakers is one of the highlights of the Festival, and an integral tool in advancing careers.

Such strong industry presence at LACSFF means that all filmmakers receive great industry exposure. Winners are set up with valuable meetings at Mosaic Media Group (TALLADEGA NIGHTS) and participating scripts and films have additionally been reviewed by CAA, ICM, UTA, Gersh, Disney, Benderspink (THE HANGOVER), and many others. All films will be considered for broadcast on Comedy Central's Atom TV. What's more, the Best of Fest and Best Feature Screenplay receive $2,500 USD cash awards, Category winners each receive $250 cash, and all winners receive in-kind prize packages. Festival passes, airfare, and lodging in Los Angeles are additional perks provided to LACSFF's nine screenplay finalists.

UPCOMING DEADLINE
December 3, 2010 - Late Deadline
Upgraded projects save $5 on this deadline

MISSION AND OBJECTIVE
The L.A. Comedy Shorts Film Festival and Screenplay Competition is dedicated to introducing the newest and hottest comedic talent to the industry and helping them make the connections they need to take their careers to the next level.

MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
Located in the heart of the entertainment industry, and cultivated as a specifically targeted niche festival, LACSFF forges partnerships between content seekers and comedy creators like no other festival can. By embracing emerging technologies and distribution platforms, the opportunities for filmmakers and writers at LACSFF are endless. Screenplay competition finalist Michelle Beakler gushes, "Just being a finalist exceeded any expectations and got me in touch with people I know will help me further my career."

What would a comedy festival be without a little humor? Attendees and filmmakers can attend the 'Beefcakes and Cupcakes' party where large men in tiny shorts serve up delicious treats, or battle it out against their favorite comedic star in LACSFF's Celebrity Beer Pong. Alum Jenny Hagel attests, "I had an absolute blast. [LACSFF] did such an amazing job of creating a fun, intimate and friendly festival."

If you're serious about comedy, submit your short film or screenplay to the L.A. Comedy Shorts Film Festival and Screenplay Competition today!