Film Independent has recently announced the lineup for its prestigious Producing Lab, an intensive program designed to nurture and develop the skills of independent producers. This year’s lab will feature seven talented filmmakers, each paired with a Creative Advisor, as they work on their projects. In addition to the Lab, Film Independent will also award grants to projects that incorporate science and technology themes. This article delves into the details of the Lab participants and the projects they are developing.
AmeriGirl
Camila Grimaldi and Farah Jabir are the producers behind “AmeriGirl.” The project is currently in the development stage and follows the story of Aaliyah, a twelve-year-old girl attending Camp AmeriGirl. Aaliyah’s goal is to make a friend, and when a new camper, a cooler Brown girl, arrives, she goes to great lengths to fit in.
Gone by Morning
Producer Rob Cristiano is working on “Gone by Morning,” a project in the development stage. The film revolves around Lucy, a free-spirited dancer and single mother who returns to her family ranch, a place she always wanted to escape. However, upon her return, she realizes that her life might actually be there.
In the Summers
Daniel Tantalean is the producer of “In the Summers,” currently in the post-production stage. The film is a collection of four summer vignettes focusing on the experiences of Latine sisters as they visit their father. It explores the challenges of childhood and the reflections of adulthood.
Not My Name
“Not My Name” is being produced by Valeria Contreras and is in the development stage. Set in 1996, the film tells the story of a Colombian family traveling on a dangerous rural road with fake identities. As fear exposes their child to the harsh reality of war, they must navigate their way to safety.
Obsolete
Producer Annalisa Shoemaker is developing “Obsolete,” a film in the development stage. The story revolves around Eleanor, a retired programmer who is kidnapped for a bank heist. However, her captors soon realize that their elderly hostage may have more control over the situation than they do.
One of the key aspects of the Producing Lab is the pairing of each filmmaker with a Creative Advisor. This mentorship dynamic allows the filmmakers to receive guidance and advice from experienced professionals in the film industry. For the 2023 Lab, Rebecca Green will be the lead creative advisor, ensuring that the participants receive valuable insights to enhance their projects.
The Film Independent Producing Lab serves as a vital platform for independent filmmakers to develop their skills and advance their careers. Through the Lab, participants gain exposure to industry professionals who provide guidance on both the creative and business aspects of independent producing. This comprehensive program supports producers at various stages of the filmmaking process, fostering an environment of growth and collaboration.
Film Independent has partnered with the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to award grants that recognize projects integrating science and technology themes. This year, the Ssloan Producers Grant of $30,000 has been awarded to Fiona Hardingham’s “Smoke Country,” a screenplay centered around a family impacted by climate change in rural Australia. The Sloan Distribution Grant of $50,000 is being bestowed upon Christopher Zalla’s “Radical,” a noteworthy feature about a teacher who transforms the lives of underprivileged students in Mexico.
The grants provided by the Sloan Foundation aim to advance public understanding of science and technology through the medium of film. The recognition and support given to “Smoke Country” and “Radical” underline their significance as narratives that bridge science and humanity. These films shed light on critical issues such as climate change, inspiring audiences to take action and create positive change.
Film Independent’s commitment to supporting independent filmmakers extends beyond the Producing Lab. They also offer various other programs and initiatives, including Project Involve, additional filmmaker labs, a Fast Track finance market, and fiscal sponsorship. Notable projects that have emerged from these programs include “The Inspection,” “Joyland,” “Songs My Brothers Taught Me,” and “Mountains.” By fostering a vibrant and diverse independent filmmaking community, Film Independent plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry.
The Film Independent Producing Lab is a pivotal program that provides a nurturing environment for independent producers to develop their skills and projects. The selection of talented filmmakers and the involvement of experienced Creative Advisors ensure a fruitful and enriching experience. With the support of grants like the Sloan Producers Grant and Sloan Distribution Grant, filmmakers can integrate science and technology themes into their storytelling, sparking conversations and inspiring positive change. Film Independent’s dedication to independent filmmaking continues to foster creativity and innovation, paving the way for a bright future in the industry.