Oscar instead of high school
Coming soon to Hollywood’s red carpet: A high school senior and two young soldiers will represent Israel at an international film festival dubbed ' The Children’s Oscars '
Known as the "Children’s Oscars," the ceremony, is funded by Hollywood’s big studios. Many stars, including Meryl Streep, Brendan Fraser and Will Smith, sponsor the festival and also sit on the judges’ panel, which mostly consists of children and teens. The festival is held at some of Hollywood's most famous theaters and the awards ceremony will take place at Grauman's Chinese Theatre, just like the big boys. Mark the date: April 26.
And the contestants are…
And the candidates are: Limor Epstein, a graduate of Rabin High School in Kfar Saba, for the movie "Touched the Sky". The film tells the story of a lonely girl who conjures up an imaginary friend, and was awarded a prize with high distinction at the Jerusalem Film Festival.
Brith Harel, also a graduate of Rabin High School and set to enlist in the IDF the day of the awards ceremony, has also been nominated, for the film "Golem," a movie centered on a young man looking for the "perfect moment" in life.
Last, but not least: Igor Rochlin, a senior at Ehad Ha’am High School in Petach Tikva, with the film "Our War". The movie tells the story of a newly-arrived immigrant from the former Soviet Union that cannot find his place in society, and appropriates neo-Nazi behavioral characteristics.
Rochlin's film won first place at the Israeli Oscars for teen films last September, as well as the People’s Choice Award at the Wolgin Festival in Jerusalem. The film is due to air soon on Israel Channel 2.
Just like the pros
The young Israelis will don tuxedos, get to stay at fancy hotels, tour around town in limousines and participate in judging different films by adult directors. Their excitement is palpable, and all say they will not be upset to return home empty-handed.
Igor Rohlin: "As far as I am concerned, the visit itself is the highlight. Coming to Hollywood is a great honor. I hope as many people as possible will see my film. If I will also get to talk to the stars it would be a bonus."
The head of the film departments at Ehad Ha’am and Rabin high schools, Dr. Maor Gal-Or, who is also going to be at the ceremony, is just as excited: "It is a once in a lifetime experience," he says.
