Springfield-area dog owners have until Aug. 31 to submit videos for The Moxie Cinema's inaugural Dog-Cademy Awards, a community film festival and fundraiser featuring canine-focused short films.
The event supports The Moxie Cinema's nonprofit mission to engage, educate and inspire the community through film, according to a community announcement. Organizers said in the announcement that entries can range from edited productions to simple cellphone videos capturing everyday moments with dogs.
The cinema is encouraging participation from first-time filmmakers and experienced creators alike. Videos may feature dogs performing tricks, running through the yard, playing with family members, stealing snacks or other moments that showcase their personalities.
"You don't need to create a Hollywood production," Joe Dull, executive director of The Moxie Cinema, said in the announcement. "Some of the best entries will simply be genuine moments between people and their dogs. If it's already on your phone and it makes you smile, we want to see it."
Community members can submit films online at moxiecinema.com.
The Moxie offers in-person submission assistance
For people who need help uploading entries, The Moxie Cinema will provide in-person submission assistance at its theater, 305 S. Campbell Ave., Suite 101, in Springfield.
Staff members will be available from 1-3 p.m. on Aug. 20 and Aug. 21. Participants may bring videos or photos and receive help completing the submission process. Organizers also will answer questions about the festival.
Submissions close Aug. 31.
Films will screen in September
Accepted entries will be shown at The Moxie Cinema during September screenings, giving participants an opportunity to see their dogs featured on the theater's screen.
The festival concludes with the Dog-Cademy Awards Gala on Oct. 3 at Mother's Brewing Company in Springfield. Organizers said that the event will include a red-carpet photo experience, an awards presentation and dog-focused activities.
"We are so excited for this event! A big part of The Moxie Cinema is bringing the community together through the power of film, and the Dog-Cademy Awards is a great way of celebrating our community, and hopefully inviting some new people into it. Also, it's dog movies! How fun is that?" Dull said in the announcement.
Volunteers, judges and sponsors sought
The Dog-Cademy Awards is seeking volunteers, judges and sponsors ahead of the festival.
According to the announcement, sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels, including presenting sponsorships and in-kind partnerships that provide visibility during September screenings and the October gala.
Additional information and film submissions are available at moxiecinema.com.
This story was produced with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Springfield's Moxie Cinema seeks dog videos before fundraiser deadline
