More than 4,000 people attended the three-day National Film Festival for Talented Youth (NFFTY) April 24-26. The event featured more than 100 original films by young people under 22 years of age.

Held at various locations in Seattle, the non-profit festival was co-founded by Jesse Harris and Bellevue’s Jocelyn R.C and this year included an opening night concert, film showings and panel discussions at the EMP (Experience Music Project).

A representative from Gov. Chris Gregoire’s office came to opening night to read a letter of support, something the NFFTY board of directors was not expecting.

“The support from the Seattle film community as well as filmmakers that traveled here from all over the country couldn’t be better,” R.C. explained. “Some of the returning filmmakers from last year commented on how the festival has grown, in terms of numbers and overall quality.”

The youngest filmmaker, 7-year-old Emily Salva, won a jury award and one audience award for her short animation film.

On the last day of the festival, R.C. met with the president of the CW Network, John Matta, and the founder of the Producer’s Guild of America New Media Council, Nicholas De Wolff.

“There was a lot of networking going on, which is perfect. That’s what we want NFFTY to be – a place for industry insiders and the up-and-coming to meet and greet and make connections,” R.C. explained.

Lindsay Larin can be reached at 425.453.4602.