Hello Carlos can you please tell our audience what the mission of your festival is and what motivated its launch initially and what is your role there?

The mission is bridging the gap between established Hollywood and the global creative community, while providing an avenue of discovery for emerging filmmakers. It was motivated by the fact that it was very difficult to access the established industry apparatus. So, we wanted to be able to bridge that gap.

We will take this concept to the next level in 2013, presenting the Hollywood Network, where we initiate meetings between emerging filmmakers and industry professionals.

We recently brought in Jon Fitzgeraldas the Executive Director of the Hollywood Film Festival. He is a co-founder and former executive director of Slamdance, AFI Fest, Santa Barbara and Abu Dhabi film festivals among others. In 2012 he launched CineCause, a philanthropic platform, connecting socially relevant films to related causes. He is an award winning filmmaker, (The Back Nine, The Highest Pass) as well as the author of "Filmmaking For Change." As you know I am the founder.
 
Are you personally actively interested - open or eager to showcase international cinematography.
Yes, we are open to it.

Have you ever done a focus on European films?
We have not devoted an entire section to European films, but we have programmed European/International films over the years and will continue to do so.
 

Would you be interested in showcasing the best shorts from Europe (selection circulated by the European Film Academy of which I am a Board Member)? http://www.europeanfilmacademy.org/
Yes, we are open to it. Very interesting idea, but with several new initiatives under way for the 2013 edition, that may be a concept for the future.

What kind of filmmakers do you want to celebrate?
Talented, emerging filmmakers. Quality filmmaking. There will also be an emphasis in  supporting filmmakers making socially relevant films and connecting them to related causes.

 Your best festival souvenir?
Selected filmmakers being able to screen their films in Hollywood, as well as having opportunities to connect to establish industry execs. In addition, they will be our guests at the prestigious Hollywood Film Awards Gala, which launches the awards season.
"The ultimate networking opportunity for filmmakers looking for a break" - Variety

Tell us about your experience in filmmaking?
I studied film at U.C.L.A.  and since 1990 I have been producing conferences in Hollywood about the multiple disciplines of filmmaking. I am the best selling co-author of "Opening the Doors to Hollywood," and a U.C.L.A. Extension screenwriting teacher. In addition, I founded the Hollywood Film Festival and Hollywood Film Awards in 1997. Further I am an Internet pioneer and creator of various online platforms that have provided access to Hollywood Insiders including our http://www.hollywoodnews.com portal. Further, I have a marketing/entertainment company that specializes in the promotion of brand names within the Hollywood community - Hollywood Network, Inc..


Who is your mentor/idol/reference film-wise?
Orson Welles

What is the synergy between the festival and the Hollywood Film Awards®
All festival selected finalists get 4 VIP GALA Passes, per film, to join our awards show. Also, the WINNERS of the film festival screenings will receive their AWARDS onstage at the Hollywood Film Awards Gala ceremony.

While the film festival caters to independent filmmakers and their films, the awards ceremony highlights the great work of established Hollywood stars both in-front and behind the camera. The Hollywood Film Awards launches the awards season.

Thank you Carlos

Bruno Chatelin

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