???? February at SP ????

The Deadline Dash Begins

It’s that time of year again - when we’re all scrambling to meet deadlines, chasing down collaborators and getting applications in just under the wire. The Doc Society Climate Story Fund (10 March), the BFI NETWORK England Short Film Fund (25 March), Film London's Flamin Productions (31 March), and Aesthetica's Listening Pitch (21 April) are all waiting for you to throw your hat in the ring. 

As Shooter Tina brilliantly put it in the forums "Is there some kind of industry-wide agreement that filmmakers should exist in a constant state of panic?" ….  Well, at least you’re not panicking alone. Find last-minute funding survival tips from other Shooters here.

You don’t have to go it alone either. 

As a bona fide SP member you will belong to a community of thousands of other creatives, sharing advice and connections.  Sign up today to get 2 months membership for just £5.95 + secure our lowest rates ongoing. 

OFFER ENDS 7 MARCH

New Shoots: Filmmakers Awards 2024 Shortlist

We had a fantastic SP Social at Spotlight Studios last week - thanks to Spotlight for hosting :) So good to see so many filmmakers meeting, chatting, and finding new collaborators. 

And now, the big drum roll… the overall winner of the New Shoots: Filmmakers Awards is…

???? Free Spirits by George Moore! ????????

The Bafta nominated writer/director Virginia Gilbert described it as "joyous silliness, wonderfully conceived and designed, a beautifully made homage to British horrors."

The film follows a timid young vicar sent to deal with ghostly disturbances at a rural nudist camp, only to discover that stripping off is what triggers the supernatural chaos. Packed with surreal comedy, folk-horror thrills, and even a Jurassic Park homage, it’s a brilliantly crafted, wildly entertaining ride. George is now set to take home a Nikon Z 8 mirrorless camera, a Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.8 prime lens, and a stash of other goodies ????.

A massive cheer as well for our two runners-up:

⭐ Bender Defenders by Ira Putilova – "Beautifully shot with striking imagery. An immersive and interesting window on individual experiences."

⭐ Hot Mess by Tortor Smith – "Striking attention to detail and powerful visual metaphors which lightly undercut and counterpoint the more serious theme." 

You can watch the winning films on SP and if you’re looking to team up with like-minded creatives, check out the submissions page . Many shooters who entered are are on the hunt for collaborators, festival support, and new projects.

BFI Flare Industry Accreditation

BFI Flare (14–24 March) is fast approaching, and if you’re heading there, industry accreditation is the best way to make the most of it. For £50, an industry pass gives you access to screenings, talks, and networking events - offering plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow filmmakers and industry professionals. 

This year’s programme includes ten shooters with films in the lineup, spanning everything from intimate documentaries to bold, inventive storytelling. Whether you’re going to support fellow filmmakers, get industry advice or just soak up some great cinema, it’s well worth getting accredited.

Applications close on 14 March.

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