MUMBAI: Noted Manipuri filmmaker and festival organiser Mohen Naorem announced the 2nd Imphal International Short Film Festival (IISFF) 2013 that will share a common theme - including social issues, public service messages, love, horror and experimental.

To be held between 24 and 28 March in Imphal, the festival will feature more than 150 films from more than 12 countries. The last day of entry submissions is 31 January. The contest is open to all Indian and international filmmakers who have made their film post January 2011 and before December this year. The participating entries may be up to 30 minutes long.

To be independently adjudged by a panel of renowned Jury members, this festival has a competition section offering total prize money of close to Rs 200,000 in 17 award categories apart from a citation, medal and a certificate of participation.

“It is marvellous to see that Imphal International Short Film Festival has grown over the past one year and is taken seriously amongst the well known filmmakers and institutes. With the theme line ‘The Big Picture in Shorts‘, IISFF 2013 event has begun accepting entries for the festival and is much talked about in independent film making circles and that amongst student film makers,” said Naorem.

“Movies are a great way of communication breaking all stereotypes. We will strive and continue to have a grand repertoire of films this time too. In fact, we have received a tremendous opening with entries pouring in from various parts of the globe as well as from Indian participants including from renowned institutes like Whistling Woods International and others,” he added.

Recognized as a major film event in the north east India, the 2nd Imphal International Short Film Festival will once again showcase a host of quality movies from around the world in the presence of prominent guests and the cine enthusiasts. Films & TV World is the online media partner for the festival.