Panasonic is proud to announce the winners of its inaugural LUMIX 72-hour filmmaking challenge. The creativity and storytelling expertise of Australian filmmakers was celebrated last night at an exclusive screening and award ceremony at Sydney’s iconic Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace.
Paul Reid, Managing Director, Panasonic Australia, said: “We were amazed by the talent the entrants demonstrated. These films are dramatic, thought-provoking and heartfelt – impressive when you know they were tasked to go from concept to screen in just three days.”
The overall winner of the Challenge is the film Big Chef, Little Chef created by Kerrod Cooper, with Aiman Malik and Caimaniacs crowned on the night as the recipient of the ‘People’s Choice’ Award for their film Making Magic.
With a prize pool of over $25,000, the challenge attracted entries from every corner of the country. In June, entrants were required to create a 30-60 second video to demonstrate what made them the perfect candidate for the competition. Ten successful applicants were then loaned the recently launched Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX and supporting equipment to create a short film between 3-6 minutes long within just 72 hours. The brief was intriguing: creators had to integrate the theme ‘Broken’ and object ‘Egg’ into their film!
The ten finalists and their guests attended the gala evening, where the overall winner was selected by a panel of expert judges who evaluated each film using strict criteria – creativity and originality, cinematography, and the smooth and unique integration of the theme. The audience was also part of the action, with the ‘People’s Choice’ Award decided by the votes of those in attendance on the night.
Paul Reid added: “We were thrilled to finally meet the filmmakers and their crew in person and discover what went on behind the scenes to create these cinematic gems.”
Inaugural Winner: LUMIX 72-hour filmmaking challenge.
Kerrod Cooper, the inaugural winner for Big Chef, Little Chef, received a prize package including over $14,000RRP in LUMIX imaging products and equipment from sponsors CR Kennedy Imaging, SmallRig and Atomos, plus $5,000 cash.
Inaugural Winner: LUMIX 72-hour filmmaking challenge – Big Chef, Little Chef – Kerrod Cooper and team K/D Ratio: L-R: Danny Kim, Kerrod Cooper, Jemma Ha, Kevin Rickert, David Shannon.
Kerrod Cooper said: “The competition was an excellent opportunity and we jumped at it. We started with the premise: ‘what if The Bear was a kids’ show?’ and went from there. These types of projects are our bread and butter, and our team thrives on being creative and collaborative.”
“There is so much untapped filmmaking talent in Australia, and it was great to see so many of us get together in this way. My advice to other filmmakers is to continue making cool films, and eventually somebody important will take notice.”
In Big Chef, Little Chef, a charismatic children’s show presenter – in an empathetic performance by Danny Kim – whisks young viewers into a culinary adventure filled with laughter and learning. But behind the cheerful facade, he must grapple with a simmering internal struggle as the hustle of the kitchen mirrors the intensity of his emotional past.
Big Chef, Little Chef – Danny Kim and ‘Little Chef’.
The winner was selected by a judging panel of industry experts – Liam Brennan, Carolyn Constantine, and John Harvey. The judges praised the winning film’s strong concept, complete story and sublime cinematography with great editing and use of lighting to convey tone and emotion. The tonal shifts also impressed, with the two key characters delivering a moving and powerful performance, while the creators successfully integrated the theme and the object in a meaningful way.
Big Chef, Little Chef was created by Kerrod Cooper (Director, Editor, Sound Design) and team K/D Ratio – David Shannon (Director of Photography), Dylan Esguerra (Sound Recordist), Kevin Rickert (Art Department Lead), Danny Kim (lead actor and co-writer) and Jemma Ha (Production Assistant).
People’s Choice Winner
The People’s Choice Award was presented to Aiman Malik and Caimaniacs, for their film titled Making Magic. Selected by those in attendance at the award ceremony, the film received a prize package of over $5,000 RRP in LUMIX imaging products plus equipment from sponsors SmallRig and Atomos.
People’s Choice’ Award: – Making Magic – L-R: Aiman Malik and Cain Howlett
“We wanted to make a film that explored a parent and child relationship in a positive light. This is only our second project, and we are so pleased to be here among all these amazing filmmakers. It is such a dream of ours to win an award, and we never imagined we might be standing here so soon,” said Aiman Malik.
A spellbinding story, Making Magic proves true magic isn’t about spells and potions, but about the special moments we share with our loved ones. The film is a delightful reminder that sometimes, the most enchanting adventures happen in our own backyard.
People’s Choice’ Award: – Making Magic – Caimainacs
Paul Reid added that the LUMIX team was thoroughly impressed by the high standard demonstrated by all ten finalists. “Panasonic remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering Australian filmmakers of all experience levels and abilities. Part of that commitment is giving opportunities that challenge and grow the entire industry. While the LUMIX 72-hour filmmaking challenge created a competitive platform for cinematography, it also delivered an opportunity for ten outstanding filmmakers to explore and showcase their passion for the medium.”
“We are grateful to the judges for the time they took to carefully consider all entries, and we hope that the recognition of the award encourages and spurs the winners and finalists on to even greater success and look forward to seeing what next year brings!”
Thanks also go to CR Kennedy Imaging for generously providing all entrants with lighting equipment (Zhiyun Molus 100 Combo Lighting Kit and IFootage Anglerfish RGBW Light) to shoot their films and keep permanently for their future endeavours.
Panasonic is proud to be supporting the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA), donating all the funds from event ticket sales, as well as matching this with a donation from the company.
To view the ten films, visit https://bit.ly/LUMIX72
FINALISTS
The Perfect Date – William Qoro
Dive into a heartfelt journey of “The Perfect Date” as William Qoro from WQFilms takes you on a ride of love, anxiety and the unpredictable nature of relationships. When an anxiety-ridden man strives to craft the flawless date for his girlfriend, he learns that perfection in love is just an illusion.
Disconnect – Clayton Orgles & Aaron Vanderkley
Step into the enigmatic world crafted by Clayton Orgles & Aaron Vanderkley from COAV. “Disconnect” takes you on a thrilling ride where a young couple encounters an ancient relic with an eerie offer: trade self-inflicted pain for a surge in social media followers. As the seductive allure of online stardom beckons, they must confront the perilous consequences it brings.
Beyond the edge – Christian & Dean Kennedy
Experience heart-pounding action in “Beyond the edge”, coupled with mind-bending twists, and visual effects that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Christian & Dean Kennedy have woven a gripping narrative that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
A Small and Short Little Journey Through Exeter Station and its Surrounding Parts – Terry Hou
Join filmmaker Terry Hou on an unforgettable cinematic journey of his short film “A Small and Short Little Journey Through Exeter Station and its Surrounding Parts”! Get whisked away to a world of disillusionment, unexpected encounters, and the beauty of the unknown. Watch as a disillusioned city worker’s plans take an eccentric twist when he meets an unlikely accomplice in a quaint rural town.
Alone – Tea Van de Burgt & Darcy Michell
Get ready to be moved by the poignant tale spun by Tea Van de Burgt & Darcy Michell in their latest short film, “Alone.” Delve into the lives of a young couple bound by their shattered pasts, who make a lifelong promise to each other. But when Izzy’s pursuit of education takes her away, Micah is left adrift, struggling to find meaning in a world where his life’s compass no longer points toward her.
Making Magic – Aiman Malik
A spellbinding story by Aiman Malik and Caimaniacs that proves true magic isn’t about spells and potions, but about the special moments we share with our loved ones. “Making Magic” is a delightful reminder that sometimes, the most enchanting adventures happen in our own backyard.
Big Chef, Little Chef – Kerrod Cooper
Immerse yourself in the captivating tale of passion and personal growth expertly brought to life by Kerrod Cooper. “Big Chef, Little Chef” isn’t just about cooking – it’s a heartfelt exploration of the human experience.
Shells – Justine Hinz
Embark on a gripping journey to a haunting future in “Shells”. Immerse yourself in the dystopian world envisioned by the brilliant Justine Hinz from Haunted Astronaut. In a world on the brink of extinction 70 years from now, witness the poignant story of a young woman who shares the harrowing tale of her forced sterilisation.
I want to be Egg – Jesse Vogelaar & Vidya Rajan
Step into a world where a second shot at life is up for grabs, but the price tag is steep –only the privileged can afford it. Join us in this thought-provoking journey, “I want to be Egg,” crafted by the minds of Jesse Vogelaar and Vidya Rajan.
Baby you got it – Murray Enders & Garrett Eckerson
Murray Enders & Garrett Eckerson from Rogue Antechinus deliver an emotional punch in this gripping short film “Baby you got it”. Witness the raw vulnerability of a mother seized by her own grief, as she navigates the depths of her emotions in the face of unimaginable loss.
JUDGES
Carolyn Constantine – ACS Cinematographer
Filmmaker and Director Of Photography, Carolyn Constantine ACS has numerous TV drama operating and main unit /2nd unit DOP credits: (Wildside, Young Lions, Headstart, All Saints, Rake, Please like Me, Headland, Janet King, Pulse & Australian Gangster, The Secret She Keeps, BUMP S1 & 2 and Born to Spy). She has lensed a number of high profile documentaries including Wide Open Sky which won the audience award for documentary at Sydney Film Festival 2015. The award-winning documentary Madhattan was her first long form film as both Director and cinematographer.
Her passion for the arts is reflected in the many films she has produced/directed and shot for Art Gallery of NSW, MCA, SCAF & the Kaldor Public Art Projects; her subjects have included Jeff Koons, Christo, Brian Eno, Wendy Whiteley, The Sydney Moderns, and America Exhibitions. Her recent music video for Tim Minchin “I’ll Take Lonely Tonight” has received over 405,000 views. 2021 has been a busy year having completed shooting the ABC Kids Action Spy Drama, Born to Spy before heading straight into the role of DOP for STAN’s popular series, BUMP S2.
John Harvey – writer, director and producer
John is an acclaimed writer, director and producer across film and theatre and the Creative Director of Brown Cabs. In film, he has written and directed Katele (2023 Flickerfest – Best Australian Short Film, Melbourne International Film Festival – Best Australian Short Film), Still We Rise (2023 AIDC Best Documentary / Factual Single), Kutcha’s Koorioke (NITV), Water (Adelaide FF), Out of Range (MIFF), Off Country (2022 ADG Award for Best Direction, MIFF), and produced Spear (TIFF) and the chapter Sand for The Turning (MIFF, Berlinale) and The Warriors (ABC). His theatre writing credits include The Return (2023 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Drama), Heart is a Wasteland and Black Ties. John received an ACMI (Australian Centre for Moving Image) commission to create multi-channel installation Canopy. John is also a Board Director of Bangarra Dance Theatre.
Liam Edward Brennan – Cinematographer / DOP
My love of cinematography was born in the hustle of a mosh pit, touring with punk bands and brandishing a beat-up DSLR at every show. I’ve always been drawn to images that are vibrant, layered, and beautiful. Images that make you lean towards your screen. My work spans the worlds of commercial, entertainment and documentary filmmaking, and I’m the proud recipient of two ACS Gold Tripods – shiny metal trophies from the Australian Cinematographers Society that represent the pinnacle of achievement.
I pride myself on bringing out the best in production crews and creative collaborators of all kinds, realising the vision of Directors and Clients within the challenging, high-speed environment of a film set. I’m based in Sydney, Australia. I’ve come a long way from the DSLR smashing Moshpit Days, but I still sing punk songs in the shower.
AWARDS:
2022 ACS GOLD TRIPOD for Brad Cox “Short Lived Love” Music Video
2018 ACS GOLD TRIPOD for Rough Hands EP5. Karim The Bladesmith
2019 GOLD ACS award for The Calile x QLD Ballet
2018 GOLD ACS award for Rough Hands Ep5. Karim The Bladesmith
2020 SILVER ACS award for QUEENSLAND – REEF