PUB: Filmmaker Screenplay Residency Program at 2012 BIFF - Call For Entries

BIFF Announces Call For Scripts
Seeking Screenplays
Deadlines For Submissions July 23, 2012
Submission Fee: $100.00
 
 
Mission:
The mission of the Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) Screenplay Residency Program is to develop and nurture the next generation of Screenwriters and Filmmakers from around the world.


Format:
The BIFF Screenplay Residency Program provides a structured opportunity for emerging screenwriters and filmmakers to present their projects to creative advisors; established producers; directors and writers — in a series of one-on-one and small group meetings scheduled over four full days. The Residency is designed to foster dialog, build lasting connections, and offer opportunities for growth. Emphasis is placed on critical feedback, practical advice, and a clear view of the next steps in the filmmaking process, tailored to the individual project. 


Call For Entries:
BIFF seeks applications from young writers, directors and producers from around the world.
Deadline for all Screenplay must be postmarked by July 23, 2012. (No extensions will be granted) Those accepted will be notified by the end of October and are invited to attend BIFF.


Frequently Asked Questions


What is the Programme all about?
This is an opportunity for emerging screenwriters and filmmakers to present their Screenplays and receive invaluable advice and assistance by leading Industry professional.


What is the purpose?
To develop and nurture the next generation of Screenwriters and Filmmakers from around the world.


How many days?
Networking and Mentoring Sessions will take place over Four (4) days - December 6 - 9, 2012.


What is the format?
Round Table discussions and one on one meetings with each mentor throughout the Film Festival.


Who are the mentors?
(Past Mentors):
Roger & Julie Corman, Ben Barenholtz, Malcolm Lee, Nicole Guillemet, Nate Kohn, Steven Beer, Jane Schoettle, Kelly Anne Moore, Andrew Trapani, Norman Golightly and many more.


Why be involved?
Thousands of Scripts are mailed to agents, investors and producers, BIFF has direct contact to leading industry decision makers who will read your scripts, rather than being placed to the bottom of the pile.


Who can participate?
Writers and filmmakers from around the globe.


Do you need experience?
No experience needed. Only great stories about The Bahamas or the Caribbean region.


How many will participate?
Six (6) Scripts will be selected to participate.


Past Successes: 
RAIN (Bahamas), director, writer Maria Govan, Rain Screenplay was discovered and developed at 2005 BIFF raising $1Mil to make in 2008 for the Bahamas International Film Festival Opening Night Film;

CHILDREN OF GOD (Bahamas), director, writer Kareem Mortimer, Children Of God Screenplay was developed at 2008 BIFF and showcased at 2009 Bahamas International Film Festival Opening Night Film;

 

***Both Films sold worldwide and premiered on the Showtime Channel.

"The Bahamas International Film Festival  Filmmaker Residency provided an amazing opportunity to engage with industry professionals --persons who have so much to offer both creatively and practically.  The relationships that I made during that time lent invaluable support for my first film "Rain." Nate Kohn who was my mentor during the residency became a producer on "Rain" and is still a great advocate today as I develop new projects." Maria Govan, DIrector of RAIN

"The Bahamas International Film Festival Residency Program was a very crucial and important springboard for me and my career, during my time in the Residency I made lasting relationships with key industry persons that I still am in contact with today and the advice that I've received was extraordinaryly helpful in getting my first feature made". Kareem Mortimer, Director of CHILDREN OF GOD

"The Filmmaker Residency Programme gave me the confidence and the connections to begin a career as a writer" Danae Cash, 2011 Filmmaker Residency Program Winner, Writer of MARCH ON (In development)

How can I get involved?
Send your final screenplay for consideration.


Bahamas International Film Festival prefers online entries submitted via Withoutabox.com, which provides cost-saving, paperless submission to film festivals around the world. Withoutabox’s internet-only submission platform features online applications via one master entry form, online fee payments, press kits, and the option to use Secure Online Screeners, an economical, eco-friendly, and secure alternative to traditional hard-copy submissions. Fill out one master entry form and take advantage of quick entry, extended deadlines, and powerful submission management tools. There’s no extra cost to you, and by submitting, you’ll join Withoutabox’s global filmmaker community and stay in the loop about international exhibition opportunities.