Putting herpes on screen
The Australian Herpes Management Forum is organising Australia’s first herpes-themed film festival.
Budding filmmakers are encouraged to submit short films that destigmatise HSV — the herpes simplex virus associated with cold sores and genital herpes — for competition in the inaugural Live and Love Short Film Festival.
A grand prize of $10,000 awaits the winner as well as several $1000 cheques for People’s Choice award-winners.
The competition aims to debunk myths and increase awareness about the virus, which currently affects one in eight sexually active Australian adults.
Entrants are encouraged to tackle one of nine themes in their films including topics such as ‘HSV can affect anyone from any background’ and ‘the stigma of HSV is often worse than the virus itself’.
The festival also affords aspiring filmmakers the opportunity to get some industry exposure and expert feedback. Judges include award-winning 2009 Tropfest winner Genevieve Clay and Beached Az creators Anthony MacFarlane and Jarod Green.
Entries close on September 24. The Live and Love Short Film Competition Awards will be held in Sydney on October 19 — the day before Herpes Awareness Day.
info: Visit www.liveandlove.com.au
By MIKE MRKIC
