The first Houston International Micro Film Festival, an event open to both professional directors and amateur video-taking smart phone users, was unveiled by Chinese director Chen Jianfei Saturday.

Chen, who chairs the festival association, told Xinhua that the organizers hope to use it as an international platform to inspire directors and lovers of micro film from around the world to showcase their shooting talent and creativity. It will be held every November.

"Micro film, typified by its short running time and low investment, has rocketed in people's attention in recent years," Chen said, adding the festival is expected to become a mini Oscars-style gala, with Oscar judges invited to add weight and expertise.

The director also said that micro film as a new type of art adds a new element to cultural exchange, not only between China and the United States, but around the globe.

Jim Noteware, who is in charge of running the festival, said that one of the exciting features of the event -- sponsored by the Houston International Micro Film Association -- is the chance of grassroots participation.

"The new technology allows people to make very sophisticated films on your mobiles. It also allows everyone to watch it. We will bring people from all over the world to create new films, new types of films and to distribute them in and through Houston," Noteware said.

Famous Chinese American actress Lucy Liu is set to help initiate the first film festival, Noteware added.

(Xinhua News Agency February 9, 2014)