21 Year Old Nuru Rimington-Mkali Wins Filmaka Backing

Not too long ago we posted about the Filmaka web contest that rewards an independent visionary with the prize of financial backing, to the tune of 5 million! Today we learn that Nuru Rimington-Mkali has been crowned the victor, thanks to the professionals at Variety:

Nuru Rimington-Mkali is ready for his closeup. The 21-year-old Londoner has been crowned the winner of the yearlong film contest sponsored by Web-based production shingle Filmaka. As his prize, Rimington-Mkali will receive funding of about $5 million for a feature film he will direct. He’s prepping to pitch a handful of ideas to Filmaka partners Deepak Nayar, producer of such indie pics as “Bend It Like Beckham” and “Buena Vista Social Club,” and former Fox TV Entertainment Group chief Sandy Grushow.

Filmaka contest challenged non-pros to take on a monthly series of assignments to produce short films based on a thumbnail idea posted on the website. Judges of the competish included actors and helmers Colin Firth, Werner Herzog, Neil LaBute, John Madden, Zak Penn, Paul Schrader, Bill Pullman and Wim Wenders.

LaBute called Rimington-Mkali’s final winning short, “And I Refuse to Forget,” a “wonderfully impressive paranoid thriller that was told with great economy and vivid imagery.” He also cited Rimington-Mkali’s innate skills on the technical aspects of directing.

Nuru Rimington-Mkali, we who will eventually die, salute you. This is a young filmmaker’s dream come true, and with luck, Nuru will be able to keep the momentum rolling. May this award be a seed for a burgeoning career in film.

Filmaka is currently accepting submissions for other contests. If you are an aspiring filmmaker - please consider entering, and share your experience with us.