The BFI want to recruit 16-25 year olds for a free intensive 4-day documentary training lab in London, during the BFI London Film Festival this October. They’re especially interested in applications from backgrounds under-represented within the film industry…

Jump into an intense four day Lab of screenings, case studies, talks and practical workshops to discover hands-on how a professional documentary producer/director works. Taught by experienced filmmakers, plus some of the UK’s most exciting documentary makers with new films in the 56^th BFI London Film Festival.

 

Over the four days you will explore an original idea for a documentary and learn what the core elements of pre-production are. These elements will include:

• Developing your idea through research
• Focusing your idea and recognising what kind of access you will need (archive footage etc.) 
• Writing a convincing proposal or treatment for your film
• The practical side of filming and editing a short ‘taster tape’
• And learn how to successfully pitch your idea and where to look for funding

 

The Lab presents these core elements of pre-production in the context of the UK documentary production sector and different types of documentary. Via the key roles of producer and director, it looks at how good pre-production can lay the foundation for successful production; also identifying further training and experience that participants might choose to develop their skills.

 

The Lab is free of charge

Location: BFI Southbank, London (near Waterloo Station)

Dates: 4 days, Saturday 13 – Tuesday 16 October 2012

Time: 10:00-16:00 (Sat, Sun, Mon), 10:00-18:00 (Tues)

 

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What you need to know, and how to apply!   Participants must be aged 16-25. You need to have had some filmmaking experience but please note this is not a course designed for current/graduated students of film in Higher Education. You need to have your own idea for a documentary ready to use as a possible starting point for the Lab.   You must be able to attend all four full days of the course. We can’t accept your application if you cannot attend one or part of any day.   If you are in full time education and under 18, you must provide a letter on headed paper from a senior member of staff confirming that you are released from school/college on Mon 15 and Tues 16 October.   The deadline for applications is ASAP! Click here to downloa the application form.     Â