Palm Springs ShortFest nets $20,000 Acad grant

The Academy of motion Picture Arts and Sciences grants $20,000 for the Palm Springs Worldwide ShortFest to invest in the 2012 ShortFest Forums, numerous sections and master classes for festivalgoers to enhance their industry ideas. "We're greatly grateful for the Academy for support within our efforts to provide student and emerging filmmakers using the kind of intensive practical and artistic options they need to further their understanding, capabilities and career inside the film industry," ShortFest director Darryl Macdonald mentioned. The grant was granted using the Academy's film festival grants or loans or financial loans program and given through its educational and outreach initiatives. Featuring over 300 films from 40 nations, the 18th Palm Springs Worldwide ShortFest and Online Video Market will occur June 19-20. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com