Short Film News (SFN) - Film Independent announced the launch of the @15 Short Film Contest, a new initiative designed to increase the opportunities for young filmmakers to get their films seen by a wider audience.

Presented by Best Buy, the @15 Short Film Contest is open to filmmakers ages 13-18, and there is no entry fee. The final deadline is April 15.

A panel of judges will review the short films and select up to 15 entries as finalists. Films will be judged based on quality of the short film, creativity of content, and ability to effectively tell a story.

From May 1 to May 15, registered teen members of 15.com can view the finalist vote for the best. They can vote once a day, every day from May 1-15, 2009.

For more detailed information about the submission rules visit: www.at15.com/film.