Matt Miller, president and CEO of the Association of Independent Producers (AICP), has announced the launch of the Commercial Directors Diversity Program (CDDP). The new initiative was created during contract talks between the AICP and the Directors Guild of America (DGA) and reflects both groups’ commitments to increase the number of minority and women directors in the commercial directing ranks–and the DGA membership.
CDDP looks to achieve its goals by presenting showcases of unsigned directors to the AICP membership with the goal of creating relationships which will lead to participants signing with a production company for representation. There will additionally be education and mentorship initiatives for those considering careers as commercial directors. The inaugural showcase will take place on January 11, 2017 at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles. Individuals looking for their work to be considered for the showcase can submit their work from November 1-28, and can be made here: http://www.awardcore.com/cddp/login.php.
“The AICP and the DGA are committed to promoting diversity,” noted Miller. “Looking to groups who have traditionally been underrepresented in the directorial ranks benefits all involved. This program will assist the ever-important discovery of new diverse talent for production companies; fledgling directors will have the opportunity to explore a career path in advertising; and the industry will gain access to more talent that can provide a broader range of perspectives on storytelling and creativity. A true win-win-win.”
Showcase participants will be selected by a judging panel comprised of a blue-ribbon jury of advertising and creative professionals, including creative directors, agency producers, directors, and production company executives.
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More