We are looking for passionate, self-motivated, resourceful, and open-minded individuals ready to embark on an exciting creative journey with us. Filmmaking is a powerful medium for storytelling, and we believe that creativity and commitment are key to bringing distinct stories to life.
This Lab is open to young Latin American-identifying individuals (ages 18–29) based in Canada. If you’re eager to learn, create, and share your story through film and media art, apply now and tell us about yourself and your vision!
1. Program Overview
Goal: To empower emerging Canadian Latin American filmmakers to produce and showcase their distinct stories, culminating in a premiere at the festival.
Duration: 6 months
Participants: 5 selected projects (short films or documentaries).
2. Workshop Phases
Phase 1: Call for Submissions
- Eligibility: Open to Latin American emerging artists residing in Canada
- Submission Requirements:
- Project proposal (1-2 pages) (8 mins maximum) in any genre (eg. fiction, documentary, experimental, etc).
- Including logline
- Synopsis (max 250 words) which includes the main story developments, and tells the basic story from beginning to end.
- Artistic intent (max to one page in length).
- Visual references or mood board.
- Preliminary budget (if applicable).
- CV/Portfolio of the applicant.
- Selection Process:
- A jury of industry professionals reviews submissions.
- Criteria: originality, feasibility, and relevance to Latin American culture.
Phase 2: Pre-Production Bootcamp (2 Weeks)
- Workshops Led by Industry Professionals:
Ideation, Scriptwriting, Pre-Production (2 sessions per week)
- Script Development: Refining ideas into compelling screenplays.
- Budgeting & Scheduling: Efficient resource allocation.
- Pre-Visualization: Storyboarding and mood-setting.
- Team Assembly: Guidance on finding collaborators.
Phase 3: Production Mentorship (4-8 Weeks)
Production (1 session per week)
- Hands-On Filmmaking:
- Participants work on their projects with access to basic equipment and facilities.
- 2 On-set some online mentorship from seasoned filmmakers.
- Support Provided:
- Limited financial support or in-kind resources (equipment, locations, etc.).
- Guidance on directing, cinematography, and sound recording.
Phase 4: Post-Production Support (4-6 Weeks)
- Workshops and Resources:
- Editing basics, sound design, and color grading.
- Access to professional editors and post-production tools.
- Feedback Sessions: Rough cuts reviewed by mentors and peers.
Phase 5: Premiere at the Festival
- Showcasing the Projects:
- Dedicated screening for workshop participants.
- Opportunity for a Q&A panel with the artists.
- Networking:
- Invitation of industry professionals and distributors to attend.