October News
Happy Halloween!
Greetings, WIFSFBA members! Welcome to the macabre month of October! It's time to let your inner Halloween enthusiast shine! Have you decided what wild, wacky, or downright weird costume you're rocking this year?
October is also the month when we get serious and raise awareness for some causes that really need our attention. So, while you're out hunting for the perfect fake fangs or googly-eyed monster masks, let's keep these important issues top of mind:
National Women’s Small Business Month
Hispanic Heritage Month (Sep 15-Oct 15)
Here are some local events and info in honor of these causes:
Reunion: The GLBT Historical Society's Gala
Date: October 14th, 6-9pm
Location: Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel - 609 Sutter St, San Francisco
People gather together on this evening to celebrate their vast queer past, honor the history makers who move their communities forward, and raise funds to keep LGBTQ history alive. The evening will include a cocktail reception, awards presentations, a silent auction, and the opportunity to connect with a wide range of LGBTQ history supporters.
Ticket Info: GLBT Reunion
1st Annual San Francisco Bay Area Small Business Ball
Date: November 18th, 6-10pm
Location: The Hibernia, 1 Jones St., San Francisco, CA
Get ready to mingle with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and forge valuable connections that can help grow your business. Engage in lively conversations, share your success stories, and discover new strategies to take your small business to the next level. As part of our commitment to giving back to our small business community, we will be awarding grants ranging from $250-$1,000 to small business owners within the San Francisco Bay Area. Applications are available here
For Tickets: Small Business Ball
Finding Hope in America
September 25, 2023
by Darlene DeRose
Last month, I read WIFSFBA President Julie Rubio’s blog about the struggles she and her family faced growing up Mexican in California, with deeply personal interest. My partner and I had just finished Finding Hope in America (he as Director and me as Producer), a film highlighting the struggles Spanish speakers in our country face when they seek treatment for addiction. Often, Spanish speakers are discriminated against for a variety of reasons when seeking treatment; sometimes, they don’t even know that treatment is available; nearly always they fear that treatment will be as many report it to be in Mexico – with addicts coerced, imprisoned and abused (Garcia and Anderson, 2016).
Finding Hope in America takes us on a journey through the nightmare of addiction, seen through the eyes of a group of men and women marked by it. They openly share the struggle to find treatment that recognizes their language and culture. They illustrate the importance of family in the healing process. They convey the courage it takes to overcome addiction – revealing the community that ultimately saves their lives.
When we were asked to create this film, we never imagined that it would shape itself into a full-length documentary, with the power to create change. We never imagined the incredible people we would meet – the men who create a brotherhood with the power to change lives and the women who are willing to share their experiences to help others. We have been humbled and honored to witness how family – whatever form and shape it takes – has the ability to bring about healing.
When my partner and I started ShadowPower Productions, we also never imagined the journey of discovery that Finding Hope in America would take us on. We learned that an estimated 13.5% of U.S. Hispanic adults ages 18+ have a substance use disorder; this equates to 5.7 million U.S. residents. We learned that in Contra Costa County, where this film was made, close to 40,000 individuals in our Hispanic community are struggling. We learned that Contra Costa County, in its 2021-2022 Cultural Humility Plan Update, acknowledged that the Hispanic community has historically been marginalized and excluded from the services available and that this racism and discrimination constitutes a public health crisis.
Moreover, we learned that, according to an NIH study, “Latinos are less likely to use specialty substance abuse treatment (e.g., rehabilitation programs, in/out-patient services) than other racial/ethnic groups…[and] Latinos largely avoided specialty treatment due to barriers stemming from cultural factors, perceived treatment efficacy, recovery goals, and perceived treatment need” (Understanding barriers to specialty substance abuse treatment among Latinos, Miguel Pinedoa, et al.). Research done by Support4Recovery in Contra Costa County (a local non-profit and our advocacy partner) revealed that the barriers identified by the Hispanic community are overwhelming - a lack of access to Spanish-speaking treatment facilities, outpatient programs, and aftercare; an inability to read and write both English and Spanish; and a need for a matrix of support services – among them, immigration and legal assistance, employment opportunities and access to medical care.
Finding Hope in America seeks to change this. The men in the film share their journey from addiction to sobriety and the path that led each to Pueblos del Sol. Pueblos del Sol, a Spanish-speaking treatment facility, represents a rare ray of light – where culturally appropriate treatment makes community possible. The film also seeks to raise awareness of existing recovery services available in Spanish, as well as advocate for treatment expansion. Our goal is to create a movement to help individuals overcome the barriers to getting into treatment and portray what is possible through the difficult work of recovery. We live in a time when mental health issues and addiction are growing. It is time to point out what can work and embrace real-world solutions, facing these issues. Julie Rubio wrote about being Mexican in a dominant white culture. She talked about the discrimination faced by the men in her family and about her parents’ instructions to hide her heritage. Recognizing that she embraced all that her culture contributed to her life, Julie asked: “How could I value something I was told to keep as a secret?” September 15 marked the start of Hispanic Heritage Month – a month-long celebration of the many Hispanic Americans living in the U.S. Let’s not only celebrate our Hispanic brothers and sisters, but let’s take action to support them and ensure they have equal access to services and support in healing. It is a time to embrace the culture that Julie, and many children growing up in the same situation, are asked to deny, to suppress and to keep secret. We hope that, as filmmakers, we have played a small part in bringing about that change.
More Info: Finding Hope in America Film Trailer
Letter from President Julie Rubio
How quickly summer seems to have passed us by. Yet, with that fleeting blink, I witnessed the strength and resilience of our beloved film community. So many stood with grace and fortitude on those picket lines, advocating for fair contracts, equitable wages, and the simple dignity of decent working conditions. It warms my heart to announce that The Writers Guild of America has inked an agreement with major entertainment houses, closing one of Hollywood's long-standing labor chapters. While this is a light of hope in these tumultuous times, let's remember that there's still a journey ahead. Our friends at SAG-AFTRA are still striking, our screens might remain dim a little while longer. But as I've always believed, where there's unity, there's hope. The battle for fairness continues, and we stand with all of them.
As a filmmaker, your work holds tremendous significance. Despite the current strikes, it's crucial to remember that your worth isn't defined solely by what a studio or streamer says. That's an easy sentiment to voice, but when there is no work and mortgage payments become a burden, the harsh reality sets in. I have moments when I ask myself, "What the hell am I doing making films?" I am finishing up my film, “The True Story of Tamara de Lempicka & The Art of Survival,” and this documentary film has truly taught me that filmmaking is an art of survival.
I've been working in independent film for over 20 years, serving as an actress, producer, director, and writer. That’s all I know, but it never seemed valued until more recently. I had to make a movie that was on HBO or Netflix before society, and even some friends and family, actually considered me a filmmaker. Going on five months into the strike once again, I'm reminded that it's never been financially valued—at least not for me, a female independent filmmaker and Latina. So, why do I pursue it?
Film has the power to transcend boundaries and make a lasting impact. This fact has compelled me to persist in my craft, challenge conventions, and continue to showcase the value of my work. I was convinced that if my work was good enough, it could bypass everything—the sexism, gender inequality, and imbalance of equity. Let's face it: there's a lot of nonsense in the industry. But then a voice within me would say, “Don’t lose sight of the profound significance of filmmaking. Stay dedicated, tell stories that resonate and shape the world. Don’t lose your passion. Do the work, and the results will follow.”
I love filmmaking and I come from an artistic background. My Maternal grandfather was a photographer, and my maternal grandmother was an abstract painter. It is in my blood. I felt it calling me from the first moment I picked up a camera. My grandfather was a patient, kind teacher. He would explain, "See the light, see the shadows." The first time I developed my pictures, it was as if I was tapping into something bigger than myself, something that would be eternal and live long past me. The same thing happened the first time I picked up a movie camera. I was 21 years old, traveling through Europe—Amsterdam, Paris, Venice, Florence, Rome, Germany, Austria—all captured with my video camera, and I never put it down. I still have those movies, and recently, I used some of them in a film. It was like tapping into the past to create my future. The closest thing I have ever experienced to time travel. Such a powerful medium—how can anyone ignore its potency, especially when skilled in harnessing it? And how do you get good at something if you don't keep practicing? It may seem like all fun and games, but if it is your calling, and it can provide enough to keep the lights on and cover the mortgage, then you're dealing in true magic.
Though it may be easier said than done, especially when financial concerns arise, it's crucial to reflect on why you are drawn to the world of film. Film is more than just a medium; it's a potent force that transcends boundaries, ignites empathy, and has the potential to reshape history. Through our craft, we not only tell stories but also shed light on social injustices, spurring action towards a brighter future. Especially as the voices of female and independent filmmakers sometimes get overshadowed, our dedication becomes pivotal. With every frame, we advocate, inspire, and challenge conventions, proving that film isn't just a passive observer but an active catalyst in global discourse. In this pursuit, it's essential to remember that while our passion drives us, our unions stand firm, ensuring we receive the recognition and recompense we rightly deserve.
Film is a remarkable gift that we have been given. It possesses a unique quality—it is timeless, and it allows us to embark on a journey through time itself. Imagine, for a moment, your own personal collection of home movies, tucked away safely, waiting to be rediscovered and what will you do with them? I lost my mother to a stroke in June 2022. And I lost my lifelong best friend in 2022 to Covid and pre-existing conditions. All I had left of them were my memories, and luckily enough, those memories were captured through film and photographs. I decided to dedicate my new film to my mom and my best friend. I took all that pain, sorrow and turned it into something beautiful.
In a world where time seems to move at an ever-accelerating pace, film allows us to pause, to reflect, and to appreciate the beauty of each passing moment and our loved ones. It reminds us of our shared humanity, of the universal experiences that connect us all. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, capturing both our triumphs and struggles, reminding us of the indomitable strength that resides within us. Let us cherish the memories it preserves, the stories it tells, and the impact it can have on our lives and on society at large. Together, let’s use the power of film to capture and shape moments that will help change things for the better. Despite the challenges we may face, let us embrace our craft, our community, and the power it holds. Thank you for your dedication to the art of filmmaking and for being part of our community.
With warm regards,
Julie Rubio
President of Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area
Important Women Who Helped Shape Film & Cinema History
Ongoing Newsletter Series - by Tasha Nesbitt
Throughout cinema and film history, there have been a handful of infamous women. From making headlines with their roles on screen to inspiring defiant admiration from fans, these ladies have caused much chatter! Unfortunately, more often than not, the talk was in response to a notorious scandal or conflict that was too big to ignore.
It's worth noting that these women were also talented individuals and made significant contributions to the film industry, even if they were also involved in scandals or controversies. Whatever their controversy may have been, these resilient women continue to remain an unforgettable and significant part of cinema's legacy.
FRANCES FARMER
Frances Farmer was an American actress and television host who was born on September 19, 1913, in Seattle, Washington. She was known for her beauty, talent, and strong personality, but also for her struggles with mental illness and her tumultuous personal life.
Farmer began her acting career in the 1930s, appearing in several successful films including "Come and Get It" (1936) and "The Toast of New York" (1937). She was known for her intense performances and unconventional approach to acting, which often clashed with the Hollywood studio system.
Throughout the 1940s, Farmer's personal life began to unravel. She was involved in several scandals, including a highly publicized arrest for drunk driving and a tumultuous marriage to actor Leif Erickson. Farmer also struggled with mental illness, and was institutionalized several times throughout her life.
In the 1950s, Farmer moved to New York City and began a career as a television host. She hosted several successful shows, including "Frances Farmer Presents," which aired on local television stations in New York City.
Farmer's life was the subject of several books and films, including the 1982 biographical film "Frances," starring Jessica Lange. The film was based on Farmer's life and career, as well as her struggles with mental illness and her experiences in Hollywood.
Frances Farmer was a talented actress and television host who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her struggles with mental illness and her tumultuous personal life have made her a fascinating and tragic figure in Hollywood history.
By Tasha Nesbitt
Board of Advisors, WIFSFBA 2023-Present
Former WIFSFBA President 2019-2022
*This article was researched and written with the help of ChatGPT & Jasper.ai, artificial intelligence driven writing tools.
Stay tuned for this series and our next featured filmmaker in the next newsletter!
WIFSFBA UPDATES
The Ins and Outs of Film Festivals was a Hit!
Thanks to the 40+ people who attended our September 9th zoom session for making it one to remember. After an exhilarating presentation and Q&A, everyone left with new ideas about how to really work their next film festival to get the most out of it for their films AND themselves. A BIG thanks to Monika Skerbelis (on the left in image below) and Rona Edwards for sharing their invaluable experience with us!
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
Do you have some career news you’d like to share with fellow members?
We’d really like to hear about any recent career accomplishments, awards, new ventures, or a positive experience having to do with our industry. This is one of the advantages to being part of an organization like WIFSFBA -- by letting others know what you’re doing, you can expand your creative family and even find new collaborators for future projects.
So…take a moment to sit down and write something you’d like to share with your WIFSFBA sisters. Then email that blurb and any related images to bod-admin@wifsfba.org with ‘Members in the News’ in the subject line. Do it now rather than next week -- you deserve to shine! Submit by the end of the month to be included in the next newsletter.
New Community Partners - Event Invitations
New York Women in Film & Television (NYWIFT)
"Business of Adaptions"
When: October 18th, 3pm PT/6pm ET
Tickets: $20 - Virtual
Agents, Hollywood producers, and publishers are always searching for the next great story, but not all writers start from scratch. Oftentimes, ideas come from the things we see, read, write and hear. The challenge for many is how to transition these materials from their original form of a book, article, and story into a full-fledged viable screenplay and adaptation material for another medium. Savvy industry professionals love to leverage their time and efforts by capitalizing on a story that can be adapted into many forms. Learn from this experienced panel about ways to locate common sources for your story or script and the power and pitfalls of working with adaptations for your project.
More Info: Save 10% on regular registration with discount code NYWIFT10 here.
Film Fatales | "Fix It in Prep"
When: October 6th, 2pm PT/5pm ET
Tickets: $20 - Virtual
Join Film Fatales as celebrated writer and director Catherine Hardwicke (Prisoner’s Daughter, Cabinet of Curiosities, Mafia Mamma, Twilight, Miss Bala, Lords of Dogtown, Thirteen) discusses her journey from pre-production to final screening in this online workshop. During Fix It In Prep Catherine will take us through her detailed preparation process for her film and television projects emphasizing shot lists, shooting diagrams, and prepping action. With support from event partners Ghetto Film School, WIF, Women Make Movies and Wrap Women.
More Info: Fix it in Prep
Internship/Volunteer Opportunity with WIFSFBA
Becoming a WIFSFBA intern or volunteer is a unique and exciting opportunity to be a part of a highly respected organization in the film industry. Come join our wonderfully diverse team!
Position Description:
We offer school credit for those attending a HigherEd institution, AND volunteer opportunities for non-students of all backgrounds and experience levels. During their internship, applicants will have the opportunity to work and interact with experienced working producers, directors, writers, editors, etc. on projects that expand WIFSBA’s community outreach, and will be invited to attend all of our events. In return, we ask interns to contribute 5-10 hours a week to WIFSFBA and attend mandatory monthly Zoom team meetings.
We are looking for interns to support our work in one or more of the following areas:
●Events
●Tech Support for Zoom Events
● Graphic design
● Work with Photoshop
● Marketing
● Canva -- assist in photo editing and marketing materials
● Updating website
● Non-profit grant writing
If you are experienced or trained in one or more of the areas listed above, and are interested in expanding your skills professionally, please APPLY by sending the following materials addressed to Julie Rubio, WIFSFBA President, at bod-admin@wifsfba.org
● Resume
● Cover letter -- please include:
-which area(s) above interest you
-your experience/training in that area(s)
-reason(s) for wanting to work with WIFSFBA
-if you are a student OR non-student
-If student: which semester/quarter/summer you are available
-If non-student: when you could begin a 6-month time commitment
We strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds, including but not limited to BIPOC, gender diverse individuals, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disabilities, bilingual individuals. Reasonable accommodation will be made so that qualified applicants with disabilities may participate in the application process.
We are accepting applications on a rolling basis.
Questions? Please contact bod-admin@wifsfba.org and put INTERNSHIP in the subject line.
UPCOMING WIFSFBA EVENTS
A Conversation with Julie Rubio
When: October 15th, 2pm-3pm PT
FREE Virtual Event
Honoring this year's Hispanic Heritage Month, we invite you to join us for a virtual chat with Julie Rubio, President of Women in Film San Francisco (WIFSFBA). Julie is an accomplished award-winning filmmaker with over 15 awards to her name including the acclaimed "East Side Sushi" available on HBO, Peacock, Amazon Prime and more. Discover Julie's inspiring journey in the film industry and secrets to her success, the challenges she's overcome, and how she's making a difference. "A Conversation with Julie Rubio" provides a unique opportunity to connect with Indie filmmakers and learn more about Latino culture and its influence in the entertainment industry.
Register Here
The Young Women Writers Screenwriting Contest
When: October 14th, 11-12:30pm PT
FREE Virtual Event
A joint effort by the Intuitive Writing Project (TIWP) and Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area (WIFSFBA), the Young Women Writers Screenwriting Contest aims to uplift young women and non-binary people in film. By promoting and running this contest, WIFSFBA and TIWP have created a space where young screenwriters can feel empowered in their writing. The contest falls into two parts: a screenwriting contest, and a subsequent panel event run by WIFSFBA. The top three scripts selected from the contest are then passed on to the event panelists, all of whom are WIFSFBA members and professional filmmakers, producers, and writers. During the event, the screenwriters will read their scripts aloud to the panelists and audience and then will be given feedback by the panelists. At the end, audience members will be able to ask the panelists questions. Because of WIFSFBA's involvement, young women screenwriters are connected with established and experienced women in the industry and have a chance to learn and grow in their own right.
Register Here
WIFT-US Networking Night
When: Every second Thursday of the month
Virtual Event - FREE for WIFSFBA members
Join us to network and meet other crew across the U.S!
Register Here
WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE BAY AREA
Mill Valley Film Festival
When: October 5-15th
Where: San Rafael, Berkeley, Mill Valley, SF, Larkspur Theatres
We’re excited to be a community partner for Mill Valley Film Festival, an extraordinary celebration of cinema that brings together filmmakers, artists, and audiences. This year's lineup of films, discussions, and musical performances will inspire, entertain, and leave a lasting impact on all who attend.
Tickets - Mill Valley Film Festival
Facebook: @MillValleyFilmFestival
Instagram: @millvalleyfilmfest
Twitter: @MVFilmFest
San Jose International Short Film Festival
When: October 12-15th
Location: Cinemark CineArts Santana Row, 3088 Olsen Dr., San Jose, CA
The 15th Annual San Jose International Short FF will again offer an incredible lineup of more than 100 imagination-stretching short films from across the globe screened over four days. The films are programmed into over 20 screening blocks plus special events, a testament to the creative range of the featured films.
More Info: San Jose Intl Short Film Festival
Sundown Cinema Film Night in the Park
When: October 20th, 5-9pm
Location: Jerry Garcia Amphitheater, 40 John F. Shelley Drive, San Francisco, CA
FREE EVENT
Get ready for a cinematic journey under the stars with Sundown Cinema, the ultimate free outdoor movie series spread across seven diverse San Francisco parks! This community event is a celebration of entertainment, bringing together local flavor, refreshing drinks, captivating music, and an array of film selections that cater to both dedicated cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike.
More Info: Sundown Cinema
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
When: October 31, 8-9:59pm
Location: The UC Theatre Taube Family Musical Hall,, 2036 University Ave, Berkeley, CA
Relive this cult classic on screen, complete with the Bay Area’s premier live cast, Barely Legal! Sweethearts Janet and Brad stumble upon the flirtatious mad scientist, Dr. Frank-N-Furter’s bizarre abode during his annual Transylvanian science convention. Audience participation is expected. Burlesque show included.
For Tickets: Rocky Horror Show
Sci-Fi Feature Film Challenge - IN PRODUCTION
Production Dates: Oct 7,8,14,15,21,22 and Nov 4,5
Location: Pleasant Hill Location (Given to Fully Registered Participants ONLY)
MAKING A FEATURE FILM! Sometimes, the only way to get it done is for EVERYONE to pitch in-- Come ONE or ALL days to be part of it! Sponsored by MMTB-Movie Making Throughout the Bay.
Participation Ticket Info: Sci-Fi Film Challenge
Make Me Famous - a New 80s ART Documentary
When:
Roxie Theater: 10/15
4-Star Theater: 10/19-11/3 (+Q&A), 10/15 & 10/19 (w/special guests)
Ticket Links: https://roxie.com/film/make-me-famous/ & https://www.4-star-movies.com/
A madcap romp through the 1980's NYC art scene amid the colorful career of painter, Edward Brezinski, hell-bent on making it. What begins as an investigation into Brezinski’s legacy and mysterious disappearance becomes a sharp, witty portrait of NYC’s 1980s downtown art scene resulting in an irresistible snapshot of an unknown artist that captures the spirit of an iconic era.
Make Me Famous is a self distribution success story. FINALLY, in this bleak time for indie films. Producer Heather Spore will be joining WIFSFBA's Self-Distribution Panel November 16 so come see what all the buzz is about before she spills her secrets and self-distribution hacks to make it work in this crowded media landscape. Currently 100% on Rotten Tomatoes!
Trailer: https://youtu.be/lCdEk7Tf_b0
IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4939232/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makemefamousmovie/
Rotten Tomatoes: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/make_me_famous_2021 100% Fresh
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
San Francisco International Film Festival
Festival Dates: April 25-May 5, 2024
Regular Submission Deadline: November 3, 2023
Accepting feature films, shorts, youth-produced shorts; finished film, rough cuts, or works-in-progress
“The San Francisco International Film festival, presented by SFFILM, is an essential stop on the circuit for emerging storytellers and established filmmakers alike. The SFFILM Festival is the longest running film festival in the Americas, bringing films from around the world to discerning Bay Area audiences since 1957. SFFILM is rooted in the culture of film appreciation by exploring film as an evolutionary art form, and as a transformative force for social change.”
Submission Info: SF International Film Festival
Tribeca Film Festival
Festival Dates: June 5-16, 2024
Early Submission Deadline for 2024: Features-Oct 23rd, Shorts-Nov 1st
Additional categories for submission (dates vary): Short/Long form pilots & series, Emerging media, Video game projects, and Audio storytelling
"The Tribeca Film festival is an annual film festival organized by Tribeca Productions. It takes place each spring in NYC, showcasing a diverse selection of film, episodic, talks, music, games, art and immersive programming."
Submission Info: Tribeca
Script Pipeline 2023 Pitch Contest
Early Deadline: October 15, 2023
“The bi-annual 2023 Script Pipeline Pitch Contest is searching for original feature film and television series ideas -- distinct stories a global, diverse audience can connect with. Any genre or budget, studio-level or indie, is accepted. Entrants are not required to have a screenplay or pilot, and we help develop the selected projects.”
Submission Info: Pipeline Pitch Contest
Chicago Multiplex Film Festival
Event Date: October 22, 2023
Extended Submission Deadline: October 19, 2023
Accepting submissions for: Feature & short films, documentary feature, screenplay, music video and student film.
“The main goal of the CMFF is to present the most exciting and inspiring new works on film being made today. And equally, to promote an understanding and appreciation of the world through moving pictures. At this festival, you’ll have a supportive community with an expansive industry network, and experienced and knowledgeable film festival professionals.”
Submission Info: Chicago Multiplex Film Festival
LA Asian Film Festival
Festival Dates: January 25-28, 2024
Submission Final Deadline: October 6, 2023
Submission Fee: $45 and up
“Accepting submissions from Asian directors, writers, majority Asian crew, and/or Asian stories of any genre in the following categories: feature, short, short short, animated short, TV pilot, and web series.”
More Info: LA Asian FF | Submit
GRANTS CORNER
Short Film Grant with cliveRD
Extended Deadline: October 6th, 11:59pm PDT
"This grant, offered by Black Film Space, is focused on producing and building in media, on a Proof of Concept Short Film Grant. We are seeking one short film script under 15 minutes/pages that aims to serve as a teaser/preview for a feature film or episodic series. The grant total will be $9,000. The project will be selected based on a filmmaker’s ability to present a strong script and treatment that shows great promise as a proof of concept for a feature film or episodic series. We will also consider other factors such as the merit of previous work and financial need."
More Info: cliveRD Grant
WAVE Grant
Submissions Open: October 1st and close December 1st, 2023
"Wavelength’s WAVE Grant is for a short narrative film of approximately 10 minutes. Films already in production or post-production will not be considered. Project must be applicant’s directorial debut. Applicant must identify as a member of the BIPOC community and identify as woman or non-binary."
More Info: WAVE Grant
2024 NRDC Climate Storytelling Fellowship
Submission deadline: November 27, 2023
“The Black List is thrilled to announce that it has partnered with NRDC’s (Natural Resources Defense Council) Rewrite the Future program, The Redford Center, and The CAA Foundation to launch the third annual NRDC Climate Storytelling Fellowship. The Fellowship will grant $20,000 each to three writers to support revision of a feature screenplay or pilot that engages with climate change in a compelling way through events, actions, character, emotions, plot, and/or setting.”
More Info: 2024 NRDC Climate Storytelling Fellowship
Rising Voices Season 4
Submission deadline: October 22, 2023
“Indeed, Hillman Grad and 271 Films are thrilled to announce the fourth season of the Rising Voices program. The initiative aims to discover, invest in, and share stories created by BIPOC filmmakers & storytellers around the power and meaning of work. This program awards 10 filmmakers up to a $100K production budget to make a short film, which will premiere at a major US film festival.”
More Info: Rising Voices Season Four
NYC Women’s Fund for Media, Music and Theatre
Submission deadline: November 1, 2023
“The NYC Women’s Fund for Media, Music and Theatre (“Women’s Fund”), administered by the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) in partnership with the City of New York Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME), is a signature initiative that addresses the underrepresentation of women in the entertainment industry. The Fund provides grants to encourage and support the creation of content that reflects the voices and perspectives of all who identify as women.”
Frameline LGBTQ+ Film Grant completion Fund
Submission Deadline: October 27, 2023
“The Frameline LGBTQ+ Film Grant Completion Fund provides grants up to $5,000 to emerging and established filmmakers. They especially encourage applications by women, people of color, transgender people, intersex people, asexual people, non-binary people, disabled people, and other underrepresented people and communities. Films submitted should represent and reflect LGBTQ+ life in all its complexity and richness. The fund supports documentary, narrative, experimental, animated, and episodic projects about LGBTQ+ people and their communities.”
MORE INFO: Frameline Completion Fund
Thanks to Newsletter Contributors: Julie Rubio, Diane Walsh, Nil Unerdem, Tasha Nesbitt, and Nichole Carlson(October issue editor)
Newsletter designed by Lina Indeeva and edited by Nichole Carlson and Diane Walsh