Short film drives awareness for road safety with a cocktail to die for

Published date: 03 Feb 2022

A young filmmaker will tonight, Wednesday 2nd February, see his work premiere on the silver screen as part of a film competition that aims to change the way Victorians think about speeding and drink driving.

The Transport Accident Commission has partnered with Village Cinemas for the fourth annual Split Second film competition, which has seen aspiring filmmaker Felix Barnett’s concept, To Die For, brought to life.

The 22-year-old’s script was selected from 300 entrants and recognised for its creative take on drink driving.

The film, which emphasises that, unlike cocktails, drinking and driving don’t mix, features an upbeat bartender creating a cocktail that is ‘to die for’, with each ingredient a car crash reference.

Split Second invites budding Victorian creatives aged between 18 and 25 to create a 45-second film that gets young drivers thinking about their attitudes and behaviours around risky driving behaviours.

Drink driving is a major factor in Victorian road trauma. Driving while under the influence of alcohol affects perception, vision, concentration, reaction time and causes drowsiness – all of which increase the chances of having an accident.

There’s never a ‘safe’ amount to drink when planning to drive. Even in small amounts, alcohol can have a serious impact on a driver’s ability to judge distance and respond to situations safely.

The way to avoid drink driving is simple – if you’re going to drink, plan not to drive.

Felix was awarded $5,000 prize money and $70,000 to work with award-winning production company The Sweetshop to produce To Die For.

The real-world experience has helped previous Split Second winners get a foot in the door to the film industry.

Following tonight’s launch at Village Cinemas Jam Factory in Melbourne, the short film will feature during movie screenings across Victoria.

For more information on the competition visit www.tac.vic.gov.au/splitsecond

Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Ben Carroll.

“Transport accidents are all too prevalent amongst young Victorians, so through Felix’s film, we’re hoping to bring awareness to this audience and remind them that there is never a ‘safe’ amount to drink when driving.

“Felix has managed to convey this message through pure creativity, and by doing so he will encourage his peers to start a conversation with their friends about the dangers of drink driving.” 

Quotes attributable to Transport Accident Commission Head of Road Safety, Samantha Cockfield.

“TAC is incredibly proud of the Split Second competition and the platform it provides young creatives like Felix, particularly after a difficult period for the arts sector. 

“Each year we are in awe of the talent amongst entries and Felix’s film shone bright. To Die For will play a crucial role in educating young drivers of the risks associated with drink-driving and could help save lives on Victorian roads.”

Contacts

Media queries only:

  • Email: media@tac.vic.gov.au
  • Nicolas McGay 0403 710 889
  • Alex White 0419 529 505
  • Kate Vaughan 0423 540 284
  • Ben Martin 0423 542 736

Please refer any other enquiries to:

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