The Reel Peach Festival

PENTICTON, BC The 8th annual Reel Peach Festival wrapped up Sunday at the 77th annual Penticton Peach Festival with the judges choices including first place to Vernon filmmaker Bowen O’Brien for his film “The Pit”. “Peach Police” was 2nd place receiving $500 dollars and was produced by Penticton’s Shane Groot and 3rd place came from Kelowna’s Angela Quinn for “Free” and won $250. “At night the park is dark and full of people waiting for the main act to set up, so having locally produced films play was a natural fit. 90% of the entries had their story or concept revolve around a peach which adds to the Peach Fest theme” commented festival organizer Andrew Jakubeit. “I thought this year the quality of submissions was very good which made for some difficult decisions by the 9 judges scoring the films”. When notified about his winning submission Bowen O’Brien quipped “wow! I was not expecting to see this today but my team and I are thrilled. Thank you so so much!! We had such a blast putting our short together and we can’t wait for next year”. “It’s definitely turned into a tradition my friends and I love to be a part of. It’s great to see all the talent and creativity around the area” commented Shane Groot. “For a filmmaker to showcase their creation under the stars with over 5000 people watching is pretty cool, and with today’s technology you don’t have to be a professional filmmaker to put together a 1-3 minute short film” stated Jakubeit. “We look forward to next year and hope this year inspires others to put a submission together”.

Calling All Filmmakers

PENTICTON, BC The 8^th annual Reel Peach Festival takes place during the 77th Penticton Peach Festival. The popular community event takes place August 7th to 11^th at the Peter's Brothers main stage in Okanagan Lake Park. "Every year we're amazed by the talented filmmakers showcasing local stories, people and adventures," says Peach Festival entertainment director Don Kendall. "The films expand the entertainment value and diversity of our signature festival in Penticton."

This year the category and genre are OPEN. In past years there were two categories: Okanagan Experiences and Okanagan Liquid Libations. Filmmakers can submit 1 to 3 minute short films on any subject in any genre; however films must be family friendly content. Bonus points will be given to films featuring stories and adventures from the Okanagan, or a concept deriving and/or containing a peach.

Prize Money:

1^st	$1,000.00
2^nd	$ 500.00
3^rd	$ 250.00

In past years, there was no entertainment just prior to the main musical act taking the stage at Penticton Peach Festival. With the big screen available onsite, the Reel Peach Festival provides an opportunity to entertain and engage thousands of people in Okanagan Lake Park. "For a filmmaker to showcase their work in front of more than 5000 people is an exciting prospect," says Reel Peach Festival organizer Andrew Jakubeit. "Seeing a large audience reacting to your creation is an awesome and inspiring feeling. It is a chance to celebrate our region and see people, places and things that make us smile, laugh or instill a sense of pride" added Jakubeit. "You don't have to be in the film industry to create a short film about something you are passionate about".

The Reel Peach Festival is open to professionals and aspiring filmmakers. "There is a very vibrant and active arts community in our region and with today's technology; it is now easier than ever to create your epic masterpiece. We encourage everyone to share their ideas, join their friends and create a film together", stated Jakubeit. Entry deadline is Sunday, August 4^th at midnight.