Who are we?
At Blended City, it’s our mission to support and connect untraditional artists in disadvantaged communities by providing a multidisciplinary space to create. Including, but not limited to teaching, workshopping, showcasing, and executing focal productions through a collaborative community in NYC. We empower people to be who they are regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, social class, etc. As a production house, we want to be as inclusive as possible telling stories that can be told by anyone for anyone.
What is the Universal Lens Film Festival?
A cultural and artistic exchange film festival presenting short films and new media from artists that are in marginalized, underrepresented, and underserved communities. All genres are encouraged. Inclusivity being a priority, the film festival will stream at a later time to provide accessibility to those who are unable to attend, so they can actively engage and vote for their favorite film. The selection process will be based on a diverse panel of industry professionals with different backgrounds and experiences that will result in a well-rounded list of selectees to be showcased during the festival. The festival will commence with an award ceremony. There will also be an opportunity for a talkback with the audience and the selected films with their production teams for an in-depth conversation about the film/story and the experiences behind it. It will be fun, light, empowering, and provide a platform for networking between artists and communities in a safe environment.
Awards & Prizes
1. Universal Lens Film Festival will provide an award ceremony of the categories below:
- Best Film
- Best Cinematography
- Best Actor
- Best Screenplay
- Best Director
- Audience Choice
2. Winners will have the opportunity to speak with representatives from talent agencies and managers.
3. Winning films are also announced by social media and a press release.