Short films celebrating Yorkshire perspectives

Applications are now open for GLOBAL STORIES, a project for would-be film makers to help them launch a career in film and television.

GLOBAL STORIES is an Equal and Screen Yorkshire supported scheme run in partnership with the University of Bradford for new and emerging talent from groups currently under-represented in the film, broadcast and digital media industries in the Yorkshire and Humberside region.

Sally Joynson, Chief Executive at Screen Yorkshire comments: “Yorkshire has a wealth of unspent talent, often found hidden in communities that struggle to access the opportunities that the film industry can offer. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who may have no previous industry experience to break into filmmaking.”

The project is looking to select 14 individuals as writers, directors, producers, camera operators, sound recordists, editors and production coordinators, who will form two production teams to write, shoot and edit a short film in eight days. Participants will receive on the job training, the support of a professional mentor and guidance throughout the process.

Ali Rashid, Director of Innovation and Enterprise in the University of Bradford’s School of Informatics, who also runs the successful television company Real Life, said: “The scheme is designed to help people who are ready to get a foot on the ladder.

“The training and mentoring will be invaluable to people serious about getting into film or TV. The fact that we push people to start and finish a film in eight days forces people to just get on with it! There is no more waiting for the perfect sunset… you are not a film maker until you have made a film and this scheme gives people that chance.”

The project is specifically for people living in Yorkshire and the Humber region. Filming takes place in Bradford from the 26th May – 2nd June 2007. Participants will receive a training allowance and those from outside Bradford will be offered accommodation for the duration of the project. The two films will be up to five minutes long and will be screened at the National Media Museum in June this year.

The deadline for applications is the 30th of March. Application packs can be downloaded from www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/globalstories

Alternatively, request an application pack in writing to: Ben Pugh, Global Stories, School of Informatics, University of Bradford, Richmond Road, Bradford BD7 1DP.