Looking to nurture the brilliance and innovation found within the convergence of animation, gaming and film, the upcoming 2005 ION International Animation, Games and Film Festival features an all new competition category entitled Machinima.

This groundbreaking form of filmmaking utilizes computer game technology to shoot films in the virtual reality of a game engine, bringing another unusual dimension to a blossoming festival now entering into its second year. The festival will also feature its usual categories of animation; live-action short films, short documentaries, game trailers, music videos, TV spots, movie trailers and films made for mobile devices such as cell phones and PDAs.

“Our mandate is to discover and nurture the brilliance and innovation found within the convergence of animation, gaming and film," said festival founder Chris Davies. "In order to best do this, we have also created a summit where the challenges and potential of such innovation can be explored as well as examined by industry professionals, creative entrepreneurs and forward thinking story-tellers. ION encourages the boldness and courage integral to vision. We support creative risk-takers by exhibiting their work and we honor industry veterans who have blazed the trails for them to do so.”

Submission guidelines are available at www.ionfilmfestival.com. Submissions are now being accepted for the 2005 ION International Animation, Games and Film Festival. Regular submission deadline is August 8, 2005. Late extended deadline is September 9, 2005. Over 100 films, including world and U.S. premieres, will be shown during the festival, as well as new game releases. this competitive event is open to the following categories: animation; short films; short docs; Machinima; game trailers; music videos; TV spots / commercials; movie trailers; mobile videos & films.