Chrysler Film Project Named Five Lucky Finalists

The Chrysler Film Project is a film-based competition that focuses on the new emerging filmmakers in the U.S. by developing an original short film that features Chrysler branded vehicles along with Chrysler auto parts. Among the hundreds of entries, the judges narrowed down the selection and chose the five finalists that will continue their ultimate goal for a one million dollar movie production deal courtesy of Chrysler Motors and Silverwood Films.

David Rooney, Chrysler Brand Marketing and Communications Director, said, "At Chrysler, we are committed to inspiration and we are pleased at this opportunity to bring a new talent to a wider audience. The Chrysler Film Project illustrates how mainstream brands can directly impact the arts and bring inspiration to life.”

"We admire the Chrysler brand and its continued efforts to provide unique platforms for independent filmmakers to get their work recognized on the big screen. This is a great opportunity for all parties - the Chrysler brand, Silverwood Films and the winning filmmaker - to have a voice in the film industry and showcase out- of-the-box thinking," says Lynette Howell producer of Silverwood Films.

The Five finalists will now enter the second stage of the competition where they will direct and edit a three- to five-minute short film that will feature some of Chrysler's newest vehicles, which include the 2007 Chrysler Aspen and Chrysler Sebring. The film entries will be judged according to the originality of the film, level of interest of the story, and the overall quality of the film. The overall winner of the Chrysler Film Project will soon be announced this September.

Derek Cianfrance is one of the five finalists. His entry is titled ‘Blue Valentine’. The film ‘We Neighbors’ was created by Paul Fitzgerald. Jonathan Jardine was behind the film ‘Touch’ while Pamela Smith did the work on the film ‘Love On Spec’. As per the film entry ‘Dirty Girl’, it was Abe Sylvia who did the project.

"We're pleased that the quality and level of filmmaking is so extraordinary. The fact that the screenplays of these five nominees have yet to be made into films underscores the significant challenge that talented emerging filmmakers have in making their first feature films. Chrysler and Silverwood are providing a real and significant new opportunity that previously hadn't existed for these five directors," said Michelle Byrd, Executive Director of Independent Feature Project (IFP).

By Sarah McBride.

All-New 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town & Country Minivans Debut at the 2007 Detroit Show

The all-new 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans have once again proven that they have what it takes to be the best vehicles to move people and cargo. The thirty-five new and improved features make the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country not only practical but have all the right ingredients that would ensure 100% driving and riding satisfaction.

According to George Murphy, Senior Vice President - Marketing, Chrysler Group, "The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan spice up the minivan recipe by offering an all-new contemporary appearance, five different models, three distinct seating and storage systems, unmatched entertainment systems and the safety you expect and deserve. Add in three powertrain options, clever interior features and industry-leading functionality and you have a recipe that will be a favorite with any family."

The 2008 Dodge and Chrysler Minivans have so much to offer. Aside from the high quality Dodge parts that they are equipped with, they also have the all-new Swivel ‘n Go™ seating system that allows a 180 degrees swiveling of seats—perfect for passengers seated at the back particularly the second row that may want to face third row.

The all-new Swivel n’ Go includes a removable table, covered storage bins in the floor of the second row, uncover storage for the third row and a fold-in-the-floor third row extra seat. It also provides an industry-first integrated child booster seat in the second row and a minivan exclusive one-touch power folding third row 60/40 bench seat.

Safety is an integral part of the 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans. They are equipped with all-row supplemental side-curtain air bags, Electronics Stability Program (ESP) complete with traction control and brake assist, LATCH child seat anchor system and a patented, energy-absorbing steering column are among the standard safety features. And that’s not all! The 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans also include Innovations like an industry-first integrated child booster seat, ParkView(TM) rear back-up camera, a rearview interior conversation mirror, integrated child safety seat and ParkSense(R) rear back-up system also ensure peace of mind while traveling.

The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans are to be manufactured at two of DaimlerChrysler big plants: the Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario Canada and the St. Louis South Assembly Plant in Fenton, Missouri. The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans are expected in US dealerships by fall of 2007.

By Correy Putton.