Ultimate Picture Palace Young Film Writers Award
In collaboration with BFI Film Audience Network

The Ultimate Picture Palace (UPP) is looking for 10 passionate young film writers and critics (aged 15–20) to take part in our UPP Young Critics Award, supported by the BFI Film Audience Network.

This brand-new opportunity runs alongside our upcoming classic season, Melodramarama! which is part of the BFI’s nationwide Too Much programme, celebrating the rich, expressive history of film melodrama.

What’s involved:
Across November, the UPP will host five special events as part of Melodramarama! (see listings below). We want you to attend one of these screenings and either write a 300-word review of the film(s) or submit a 2-minute video blog/review.

Your review will be:
- Published on the UPP website
- Shared via UPP’s Letterboxd account and other social media channels (including YouTube account for any vlogs)
- Submitted to the BFI as part of our season report

Each participant will be allocated one screening, with two critics covering each event. Reviews must be submitted within five days of attending.

What you’ll get:
- Press tickets to the full Melodramarama season (age permitting)
- A free drink and food item at the screening you attend to write about
- A 1-hour masterclass/Q&A with a national film journalist

Melodramarama season listings:
- Sun 2 Nov — Now, Voyager + intro by film critic Lillian Crawford (Season Launch)
- Fri 7 Nov — All That Heaven Allows + Far From Heaven (double-feature)
- Sat 15 Nov — Leave Her to Heaven + Gone Girl (double-feature)
- Wed 19 Nov — Boom! + Polyester (double-feature)
- Sat 22 Nov — Johnny Guitar + Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (double-feature)

How to apply
To enter, simply complete the application form by Sunday 19 October.

Good luck!