When the Chicago International Children's Film Festival needs help selecting the winners of its most prestigious awards, it calls on its toughest critics: kids.

The 2007 CICFF Children's Jury, comprised of young critics ages 7-14, will convene August 7-17 at Facets Multi-Media to review films for the 24th annual Chicago International Children's Film Festival. Participants will view and critique more than 100 films that have been selected from among 1,000 entries submitted this year.

The Children's Jury will rate each film based on several criteria, including cinematography, script, characters/acting, and themes. These criteria will determine the winners of prestigious awards in more than seven categories, including "Best Live Action Feature Film," "Best Animated Short Film," and "Best Child Produced Film." The Children's Jury Awards will be announced at the CICFF American Airlines Closing Night Ceremony on Sunday, October 28.

Experience on the Children's Jury benefits its young participants year-round, sharpening their writing and critical thinking abilities. "Thinking critically and analyzing are good skills to have and will carry over into school," notes 13-year-old Jury member David Farmilant. Viewing acclaimed international films also broadens children's understanding of other cultures, languages, and lifestyles. Says Jasmine Zepeda, 10: "I can see things in a movie from different perspectives now, instead of basing my evaluation only on entertainment." Known as "Cannes for Kids," the Chicago International Children's Film Festival is the largest children's film festival in North America and runs October 18-28, 2007.