FilmG, aiming to build a strong talent base in the Scottish Highlands in making short Gaelic language films, has set up a development fund of £10,000.

This is targeted on helping the winners of this year’s FilmG 2009 Entertainment and Best Director categories to try to emulate the international success of last year’s winner, Siubhlachan (The Traveller).

Since its win at the 2008 awards ceremony,  Siubhlachan has been screened at film festivals in Switzerland, South Korea and Canada. Director Ùisdean Murray (pictured, centre, above with Carole Sheridan, Head of Talent at Scottish Screen and actor David Walker) has also developed a 30 minute pilot episode for the Gaelic Channel, BBC ALBA.

There are 5 weeks to go tothe closing date for entries of 3-5 mimute Gaelic shorts in FilmG 2009.

This year’s competition has a special prize of £2,500 for Best Entertainment short -  music, sport, a quiz show, chat show, a live performance or even a stand-up act.

FilmG is open to anyone aged 18 or over and has a separate category for 12-17 year olds.  Full competition details and to view last year’s films for inspiration, are at the FimG website.