We’ve had a fair amount of discussion about the need for producer training programs here. The need for training programs in other film-related disciplines is equally pressing. The need for training programs that focus on diversity and champion under-represented groups is particularly of need. Let’s face it, the film industry remains a bastion of privilege, and unless serious efforts are made, everyone just keeps helping out people that are like themselves.
WHAT IS PROJECT:INVOLVE?
Project:Involve is Film Independent’s signature diversity program, dedicated to increasing cultural diversity in the film industry by cultivating the careers of under-represented filmmakers. The program, which runs from October through June, selects filmmakers from culturally diverse backgrounds and filmmaking tracks. The Fellows are paired one-on-one with a mentor from the film industry. In addition to the mentorship, the Fellows also attend filmmaking workshops, community screenings, and receive career development assistance.
During the nine-month program, the Fellows are assigned a 2-minute short film project. They work in pairs to develop and shoot a short film that incorporates the concept of diversity in our every day life.
40 Fellows are selected for the program each year.
Project:Involve Fellows receive:
A one-year membership with Film Independent
A pass to the Los Angeles Film Festival (Westwood Pass)
Alumni support
Applications are accepted in the following categories:Acquisitions, Acting, Agent/Manager, Cinematography, Composing, Costume Design, Development Exec, Directing, Documentary, Editing, Entertainment Law, Film Programming, Marketing/Distribution, Music, Producing, Production Design, Screenwriting, Sound, and Writer/Director.
