[Submitted via press release]
Call for proposals for NFVF First Time Filmmaker Project
The National Film and Video Foundation invites all eligible first time filmmakers to respond to the Call for Proposals for the production of a low budget film aimed at female filmmakers as part of the Tier 2 development process.
BACKGROUNDThe concept for the First Time Filmmaker Project is to provide recent film school graduates from historically disadvantaged backgrounds with an opportunity to make their first professional film. Successful applicants will be guided in the development of their stories into 24-minute scripts over a period of 5 months.
The 10 best scripts will then be workshopped for camera in preparation for the production of the films over a five week period. During this process each director will be provided with the necessary tools to break down scripts for camera as well as detailed strategies for extracting the best performances from the actors.
The successful projects and teams will then be provided with a professional production crew to shoot their film. A post-production supervisor will be appointed to assist them in the editing and final delivery of the film.
Finally, a special premiere of three of the best completed films as chosen by their peers will be held at a suitable venue to be confirmed with the cast, crew and creative personnel as well as NFVF council and staff.
ELIGIBILITYIn order for a filmmaker to be considered for this opportunity, the applicant must meet the following requirements:
a. Have graduated from an accredited tertiary film programme within the last two years.
b. Have majored in one or more of the following: writing, directing, editing, cinematography or producing.
c. Be a Historically Disadvantaged Individual as defined in the constitution of South Africa.
d. Be under 30 years old.
e. Be able to set aside the requisite time over a period of 9 months to complete the programme
SELECTION CRITERIAEligible candidates for the project must:
• Have a strong written concept for a half hour stand alone film with a clearly thought out premise or controlling idea that would allow it to be packaged with at least 4 other projects.
• Demonstrate familiarity with the tools of scriptwriting including software, formatting, scheduling and editing.
• Demonstrate a willingness and ability to work with others in pursuit of the same objective
• Understand the value of and is able to work under pressure and tight schedules
• Not have made a short film professionally.
APPLICATIONSAll applications should be able to provide the following documentation in hard copy triplicate for consideration:
1. Narrative treatment for a half hour film including character bible, detailed synopsis, major turning point document.
2. CV and copy of ID document.
CLOSING DATE: 28 September 2012 All applications must be submitted as hard copies to: Thandeka Zwana by the closing date.
All enquiries may be directed to Thandeka Zwana at
thandekaz@nfvf.co.za.