YOUNG CHICAGO CRITICS 2004
Wednesday, JUNE 23rd – Thursday, JULY 2nd

Presented by the CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL CHIDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL
The Young Chicago Critics program is an intensive “movie camp” for kids who love movies and love sharing their thoughts and opinions. This summer, kids ages 7-14 from all over the city will have the opportunity to explore the art of really “seeing” a movie as the Chicago International Children’s Film Festival presents Young Chicago Critics 2004 at Facets Multi-Media, 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue.

“The YCC program is an extraordinary experience for children, ” said Nicole Dreiske, Director of Children’s Programs. “It offers them the chance to analyze and discuss films, from around the world, with their peers.” Using cutting-edge technology support, kids write scripts, perform, learn visual techniques, and complete the camp by filming their own mini-movie. Led by filmmakers, teachers, critics and producers, the YCC program will give children the skills they need to make their own short films, and think critically about what they see in films, on television and the Internet. The 5th day of camp, gives children the chance to get on-camera with another Young Critic, and talk about films using the skills they have acquired.

“Kids have a great time learning how to ‘read’ the messages that filmmakers put into movies,” said Kerensa Peterson, Camp Director. Young critics who complete all parts of the program will receive special film critic’s “credentials” at a graduation and screening on July 2rd. Graduates of the program will be invited to participate in the Festival’s Children’s Jury in August. Four Young Chicago Critics will also be selected as delegates to the prestigious Giffoni International Children’s Film Festival in Italy.

Two sessions, one for kids 7-10 and one for 11-14 year olds, will be held daily at Facets Multi-Media. With support from the Illinois Film Office, the Best Buy Children’s Foundation and the Elizabeth Morse Genius Trust, almost 75% of the children attending the camp receive full scholarships