Representing the UK in the European University Film Awards

Liverpool John Moores University was one of 25 European universities to participate in this year’s European University Film Award (EUFA).

The European University Film Award, launched in 2016, gives students the opportunity to engage in critical debate with students from multiple European countries.

Each participating university class watches and discusses five films that have nominated by a committee of film experts. One student representative from each university then joins a three-day deliberation meeting in Hamburg.  During the three days, the students discuss the films, exchange arguments and vote for the winner. This year, the award went to Celine Sciamma's 'Portrait of a Lady on Fire', which will be released in the UK in February 2020.

Film Studies student Kelsey Draper represented LJMU and the UK as a juror on the EUFA panel. Commenting on her experience, Kelsey said:

"Being a part of the EUFA student jury was an invaluable experience which has taught me many things. Having the opportunity to talk to people from all around Europe has opened my eyes to a range of different thoughts and perspectives, and has made me value the relationship we share as Europeans. It has also helped me develop my own opinions and think more deeply about how I value film, something which is beneficial to both my studies and future career path."

Dr Lydia Papadimitriou, Reader in Film Studies, added:

“The European University Film Awards is an amazing opportunity for the Film Studies students at Liverpool John Moores University to sharpen their critical skills by engaging with five contemporary European films in class and helping choose a winning film. At such critical times for Europe and the world, being part of a student jury and debating ideas inspired by films with fellow university students from across the continent keeps the spirit of democracy, enlightenment and participation alive.”

Find out more about Film Studies at LJMU.

Image shows jurors of the 2019 European University Film Awards. Kelsey Draper is second from the right.