Tropfest Rolls Out the Red Carpet for Mitsubishi's New Lancer Sportback

AUTO CENTRAL – December 22, 2008: With class-leading safety features, cutting-edge style and plenty of power, Mitsubishi’s new Lancer Sportback is an inspiring vehicle. Now, the Sportback will be the muse for some of Australia’s most talented up-and-coming filmmakers as Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) proudly presents the Lancer Supershort Series for the 2009 Tropfest Short Film Festival.

For the second year running, MMAL and Tropfest present the Lancer Supershort Series as an extension of the festival. The Series will contain three short films of three minutes each, each with a different style, and each directed by past acclaimed Tropfest finalists, with all films starring the stunning new Lancer Sportback.

The biggest short film festival in the world, Tropfest provides an opportunity for budding filmmakers to develop and showcase their talent to a broad audience over the numerous screenings and events within the festival.

Vice President of Brand and Marketing at MMAL, Paul Unerkov is excited to once again present the cross-platform marketing initiative at Tropfest 2009.

“As a major sponsor of such an important event, Mitsubishi is proud to once again be given the opportunity to support Australian filmmakers in such a dynamic way. The Lancer Supershort Series is a great creative initiative, and an exciting extension of the festival,” said Mr Unerkov.

This year’s short films will be titled “Help” directed by Steve Baker, “The Rings” directed by Michelle Lehman, and “Ready. Fire. Aim.” directed by Zenon Kohler. Directors have been given full creative freedom, support and production budgets for the development of their films.

Viewers will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite film, and go into the running to win a brand new Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback, or one of many instant win prizes.

The Lancer shorts will premier December 26th in cinemas and on-line at www.lancersupershortseries.com.au, and will launch on the Nine Network, Qantas in-flight and key ACP magazines in January. The Supershort Series will then be screened at Tropfest on February 22, on the Movie Extra Tropfest telecast.

“This really is an exciting venture for Mitsubishi, Tropfest, PBL media, the film makers and the viewers. There’s something in this campaign for everyone, and I personally can’t wait to see what results from this creative endeavour. I’m sure the new Lancer Sportback is ready for its close-up,” said Mr Unerkov.

The success of the festival has continued to build over its seventeen years, with Tropfest attracting a live audience of more than 150,000 people and satellite links to thousands more patrons, and now with expanded coverage on cable and network television, the internet, cinemas and other media outlets, Tropfest Short Film Festival 2009 is set to be the biggest yet.

Movie Extra Tropfest Founder and Director, John Polson is thrilled to once again welcome Mitsubishi’s support of Tropfest.

“This initiative has given our filmmakers invaluable experience working for a global brand and a chance to further establish a name for themselves within the industry,” said Mr Polson.

The Tropfest Short Film Festival screening and awards presentation will be held on Sunday, February 22nd, and the all-new Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback is available now from over 200 dealerships nationally.