Press Release from Metro Screen
In 2010 Metro Screen will offer 14 filmmakers funding and support through three new development initiatives.
Metro Screen has partnered with Screen NSW [formerly NSW Film and Television Office] and Screen Australia to provide short film opportunities to develop and nurture new and established talent in NSW.
“Metro Screen is committed to developing screen talent in NSW and this program provides both new and established talent with a comprehensive pathway into the screen industry.” said Metro Screen’s General Manager, Christina Alvarez
These three new initiatives will provide 14 emerging and experienced filmmakers the opportunity to develop their stories and skills.
FIRST BREAK | 11 first time filmmakers | duration: up to 8 mins | open to all filmmakers [three places reserved for Indigenous Australians and four places for those with a non-English speaking background] | with support from Screen NSW and Screen Australia.
BREAKOUT | Two experienced filmmakers | duration: up to 15 mins | open to all filmmakers including Indigenous Australians and those with a non-English speaking background | with support from Screen NSW.
INDIGENOUS BREAKTHROUGH | One experienced Indigenous filmmaker | duration: up to 20 mins | with support from Screen Australia.
Metro Screen is looking for filmmakers with drive, ambition and the commitment to produce a short screen project; drama, documentary, animation, experimental or cross platform. Applicants are selected on the quality of their idea, relevant skills and their commitment to a screen career.
These initiatives span the complete filmmaking process from initial concept through script editing, pre-production, production and post production. The initiatives also incorporate mentoring and training by industry professionals with all final works presented at a showcase screening. [For Breakout and Indigenous Breakthrough the training element is not compulsory].
NOTE: Metro Screen’s Lester Bostock Indigenous Mentorship, Multicultural Mentorship and Raw Nerve programs are now being run as First Break.
Watch the short promo vimeo link
What past participants have to say:
“It’s about training, preparing yourself for making longer films, getting experience and getting known in the industry.” Simon Blyth made Father’s Day.
“Aboriginal people have been master story tellers since the dreamtime, the chance to tell our stories on film is just an extension of our oral story telling history.” Melissa Abrahams made 11:11
"In providing opportunities and support to new and emerging filmmakers from culturally diverse backgrounds, I think Metro Screen’s program represents a commitment to changing the monoculture and monolingual state of film in Australia.” Paula Abood made Of Middle Eastern Appearance.
As well as First Break, Breakout and Indigenous Breakthrough, Metro Screen funds screen works through its Production Grant Programs that include the Jump Start subsidy rounds and live Pitching competitions. Metro Screen also supports screen makers and their projects through networking events, membership, professional services, training, equipment and facilities hire and production.