Designed to help filmmakers who are currently in production or post-production on their feature-length documentary films, Film Independent’s inaugural Documentary Lab is an intensive seven-week program running in Los Angeles in March and April 2011. The program is sponsored by Latino Public Broadcasting, and is the first new Lab since 2001.
“We are launching the Documentary Lab, with support from Latino Public Broadcasting, as a response to what we see as a real need in the filmmaking community. Each year, the number of compelling documentary projects that are submitted to our Labs has been growing dramatically, but there was always more of a narrative focus for these programs,” said Josh Welsh, Director of Talent Development. “With the Documentary Lab, we now have the ability to extend our expertise and resources to these talented documentary filmmakers.”
The Lab’s focus is two-fold: (1) provide creative feedback and story notes to the selected filmmakers and (2) help filmmakers strategize the completion, distribution, and marketing of their film.
Additionally, the program serves to advance the careers of Lab Fellows by introducing them to film professionals who can advise them on both the craft and business of documentary filmmaking. Lab Fellows have one-on-one meetings with established documentary filmmakers (directors, producers, editors), and other industry professionals who act as advisors on the participants’ projects.
DETAILS: Documentary Lab Fellows Also Receive:
· One-year membership to Film Independent
· A pass to the Los Angeles Film Festival (City Pass)
· One-on-one consultations with Film Independent’s Filmmaker Advisor
· Year-round support from Film Independent
APPLY Visit FilmIndependent.org for more information and submission guidelines. Application fee is $55 for Film Independent members and $75 for non-members. Filmmaker Labs Associate Jennifer Kushner is also available to answer further questions at 310.432.1275 or JKushner@FilmIndependent.org
About FILM INDEPENDENT
Film Independent is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization that champions independent film and supports a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation, and uniqueness of vision. Film Independent helps filmmakers make their movies, builds an audience for their projects, and works to diversify the film industry. Film Independent’s Board of Directors, filmmakers, staff, and constituents, is comprised of an inclusive community of individuals across ability, age, ethnicity, gender, race, and sexual orientation. Anyone passionate about film can become a member, whether you are a filmmaker, industry leader, or a film lover.
With over 250 annual screenings and events, Film Independent provides access to a network of like-minded artists who are driving creativity in the film industry. Film Independent offers free Filmmaker Labs for selected writers, directors, and producers; provides cut-rate services for filmmakers; and presents year-round networking opportunities. Film Independent’s mentorship and job placement program, Project:Involve, pairs emerging culturally diverse filmmakers with film industry professionals.
Film Independent produces the Los Angeles Film Festival, celebrating the best of American and international cinema and the Spirit Awards, a celebration honoring films and filmmakers that embody independence and dare to challenge the status quo.
For more information or to become a member, visit www.FilmIndependent.org.
