After a stellar year, the Writers' Lab Aotearoa and FilmUp will both be back in 2015 - empowering talented filmmakers with programmes crafted to each individual. Make sure you'll be in a strong position to apply for these Script to Screen initiatives in the new year"
1. The Writers' Lab Aotearoa is a five-day intensive residential lab for writers of feature films, and for the first time next year, episodic drama. Selection for this initiative is based on distinctive voice and the strength of a full feature draft or a pilot episode and series outline.
Last year's mentors included Oscar winning screenwriter David Seidler (The Kings Speech), longstanding Sundance mentor screenwriter Michael Goldenberg (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix), Mexican writer/director Dana Rotberg (White Lies), and our own Briar Grace Smith (The Strength of Water). Applications will open in the new year and close April, with the lab running from July 7th-12th.
2. FilmUp returns for its third year and we will once again be seeking producers, directors, writers and script developers with proven talent in order to help you take the next step in your creative career. This year's mentors included Australian screenwriters Keith Thompson (The Sapphires) and Alice Bell (Suburban Mayhem) and producer Helen Bowden (The Slap).
Both programmes have been hugely rewarding to work on and Script to Screen thanks all the filmmakers: participants, mentors and speakers, who have given their time so generously.
Any questions about the initiatives can be directed to ben@script-to-screen.co.nz, or give us a call at the office 09 360 5400.
FilmUp and the Writers' Lab Aotearoa are made possible with financial support by the New Zealand Film Commission.