Count Basie Center for the Arts celebrates young filmmakers, prepares them for variety of career opportunities in film and entertainment industry

RED BANK, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 – The Count Basie Center for the Arts is proud to announce the 10th annual Breakthrough Filmmaker Festival will take place in March of 2025. Young filmmakers are encouraged to submit their films for a chance to be screened during the festival. Submission requirements are available at www.thebasie.org/filmfest/. The festival is part of the Basie Center’s commitment to educating and elevating young, creative, and exemplary filmmakers from New Jersey.

“The Basie Center is thrilled for another year of celebrating New Jersey’s emerging filmmakers,” says Adam Philipson, President and CEO, Count Basie Center for the Arts. “The festival not only shows off the tremendous talent around the state, it gives all young filmmakers a chance to join a community of visionaries and connect with industry professionals.”

The panel of esteemed judges, along with the festival’s free programming schedule, will be announced later this fall.

“This festival helps redefine what many young filmmakers believe is possible in the world of film,” says Samantha Giustiniani, Vice President, Education and Outreach, Count Basie Center for the Arts. “While we are recognizing exceptional films, we are also giving students a chance to look behind the cameras to learn about all potential careers in the film industry. It’s a unique opportunity we are proud to provide.”

Throughout the season, young filmmakers will have access to educational opportunities to sharpen their techniques and engage with industry professionals. Films submitted to this festival will also have the opportunity to be featured in other events at the Basie Center, including the NJ Hispanic Film Fest.

Count Basie Center for the Arts
The Count Basie Center for the Arts is New Jersey’s premier center for the cultural arts, dedicated to fostering powerful, inclusive artistic experiences and creative exchange of ideas. The Basie mission is to inspire, educate and entertain through its distinct and engaging cultural and artistic offerings that embrace and amplify the diversity of the region.  As a nonprofit organization, the Basie is committed to enriching the community’s quality of life by generating opportunities for participation in the arts, partnering with schools, collaborating with other mission-based organizations and driving regional economic prosperity. The Basie Center has hosted an array of world-class artists, including Bruce Springsteen & the E-Street Band, Jon Bon Jovi, John Legend, Brandi Carlile, Crosby Stills & Nash, Tony Bennett, Diana Ross and Ringo Starr. Count Basie Center programming is made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.