Film Florida has launched a new streaming service designed to elevate the profiles of local filmmakers and their projects. Film Florida TV debuted with approximately 200 hours of content and is accessible to anyone free of charge. The platform's mission is to spotlight narratives that capture the essence of Florida and connect filmmakers with audiences in a time when distribution hurdles can stifle creativity.
Matt Wohl, president of Film Florida, emphasized the importance of modern distribution methods. “The way films are seen by viewers is rapidly changing,” Wohl stated. This service aims to address the pressing needs of filmmakers who often struggle to get their work noticed in a crowded marketplace.
A Focus on Locality
The platform is not just for established filmmakers; it also seeks to uplift emerging talent. Film Florida TV was beta-tested in March during the Film Florida TV Student Film Competition, where student filmmakers created short films themed around Florida in just ten days. The winning entries of this competition were among the first showcased on the platform, providing a springboard for young talents into the industry.
John Lux, executive director of Film Florida, expressed a commitment to uncovering Florida's unique stories. “Our goal is to highlight Florida’s unique stories and provide a place for talented filmmakers to showcase their work,” Lux said. This initiative creates a space where projects lacking distribution deals can find an audience, a critical step for many filmmakers to gain visibility and build their careers.
Accessible Across Multiple Platforms
Film Florida TV will feature a range of content, from feature films and short narratives to podcasts and educational programming. The service is available to users through various platforms, including iOS, Roku, Google, and Amazon. For those looking to explore Florida's cinematic landscape, the platform could become a valuable resource.