A committee of aspiring filmmakers, hailing from a variety of high schools in the GTA, helped put on a totally awesome weekend of events inspired by their love of film.

On Friday night, Shedoesthecity attended Battle of the Scores wherein six bands/musicians took the stage to show off a musical score they wrote that accompanied short silent films, projected on the main screen. The range of music included everything from a mask-clad dude who crafted beats on his laptop to two chicks decked in all grunge slamming a drum kit and riffing hard on a low-slung bass guitar. Badass. Each act was extraordinarily talented in their own right and were judged by a panel of music and film industry movers and shakers. Although we were impressed by all who braved the stage, the boys in What Fools received the most votes; as a prize, their music will be used in an upcoming Canadian flick. How cool is that? Plus, we think their pop-rock sound and cute looks could easily rival One Direction. Seriously.  Following Battle of the Scores, we were all granted access to a secret VIP party that included free poutine delivered by Smokes Poutine and a live show from local bad boy rappers, 2 Andrews.

TIFF Next Wave – Battle of the Scores also programmed riveting docs and high school angst films all weekend long AND hosted a set design competition for students interested in art department careers. After all, the film industry is much more than actors and directors!

We think this is an awesome new initiative for TIFF. If you are passionate about film, you should connect with them about potentially joining the TIFF Next Wave – Battle of the Scores committee next year or follow @TIFF_NET and keep up to date with programs offered for Toronto youth.

P.S Creative points go to the two guys who call their band Lesbian Bondage Fiasco. Hee hee.

~ Jen McNeely

Photos by Becca Lemire (Click to Enlarge)