Tropfest New York is just a day away and the world's largest film festival has attracted some of the biggest movie stars to its ranks to celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Russell Crowe, Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman and Geoffrey Rush are just some of those who are backing the free-to-attend film festival which is set to role out in different cities over the course of 2012, and tomorrow in New York.

Jackman will host Tropfest New York which will judge entries from around the world narrowed down to just 8 contenders for the $20,000 prize.

With so many short films being made around the world, it has become the most important format of communication on the web. As the growth of short filmmaking continues and sites like Kickstarter, Indiegogo and even Vimeo put their weight behind short films, festivals like Tropfest have an important role in curating the best of the industry.

Russell Crowe endorsement

“Tropfest has unearthed some spectacular talent in Australia, individuals that might have gone unheralded and unnoticed. It has proven to be an excellent training ground and stepping stone. At it’s core ,it is people with an idea and a camera and the energy and love to bring that idea to the screen.”

To find out more about the festival log on to Tropfest New York