Scanorama is launching a new initiative: a youth jury. Students in grades 9–12 from schools across the Vilnius region are invited to experience the festival from a film juror’s perspective: watching films, discussing them and choosing the best entry in the international short film competition “Glimpses of Europe”.
Taking place in Vilnius on 6–8 November, the youth jury programme will bring together students with an interest in cinema for screenings and discussions. The variety of short films will offer an opportunity to explore different approaches to storytelling, examine cinematic language and consider how artistic choices shape our response to what we see on screen.
Evaluating a film involves both a personal response and an ability to explain what prompted it. Youth jury members will learn to look more closely at each work, support their opinions with arguments and listen carefully to others. Reaching a collective decision will mean considering what gives a film its value: the relevance of its subject, the originality of its storytelling, its artistic expression or its ability to offer an unexpected perspective on something familiar.
A mentor will guide the jury throughout the programme, moderating discussions after screenings and helping participants analyse the films and articulate their views clearly. These conversations will welcome different interpretations, encourage questions and allow participants to reconsider their initial impressions. Every member will contribute to the jury’s final decision.
Selected students will receive festival accreditation and official youth jury member status. Together with their mentor, they will also attend other festival events, meet fellow film enthusiasts and get to know the cinema community. The competition screenings will thus form part of a broader festival experience.
We welcome curious, enthusiastic students who want to deepen their understanding of cinema and take part in thoughtful discussions. Participants should be ready to dedicate time to screenings, think independently and work towards a shared decision.
The youth jury programme will take place in Vilnius on 6–8 November. To apply, please complete the registration form. We will contact selected applicants individually.