WELCOME TO METRO SCREEN'S WEEKLY eNews – 08 February, 2007

FEATURE: Apply for Jump Start subsidy funding through Metro Screen, see below…

Create a Homage to someone that can be viewed by the cyber world, see below…

Become a member of Metro Screen and gain 15% off course and equipment hire as well as career development opportunities and discounts with Metro Screen partners,
log onto http://www.metroscreen.org.au/members.html for all the details

DIGITAL MICRO MOVIE
Weekend Workshop
This enjoyable introductory course gives you the opportunity to produce a short film in 15 hours from initial idea to final film. In groups, you will script and storyboard your ideas, shoot using our digital cameras, then edit your work in our Final Cut Pro edit suites. All participants will rotate through key crew roles while learning basic screen language, lighting and sound techniques.

Digital Micro Movie is a popular course for those wishing to gain an overview of the filmmaking process in a short timeframe. This introductory course will also help students to decide which area of filmmaking to specialise in. Above all the course is great fun: working in a team with like-minded people and an enthusiastic tutor. What better way to spend a weekend!

Special Feature | Participants will receive a DVD of all productions made.

Fri 6.15pm – 9.15pm & Sat + Sun 9.30am – 4.30pm [15 hrs] | Feb 9 | 10 | 11
$495 | $575 non-members | 11 places | At Metro Screen

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

INTRODUCTION TO SCREENWRITING
Six Weeks, One Night a Week
A strong scrip lays the foundation for a successful production. Learn the fundamentals of screenwriting in a course that will give you the knowledge and confidence to write your own scripts across a range of genres and styles. The course will introduce a variety of simple and effective techniques to strengthen your writing ability and capture your story on paper. Develop an understanding of effective storytelling by covering topics such as plot, structure, dialogue, character and industry standard formatting. Learn how to build tension and spot potential weak points. In a supportive and interactive setting, participants will develop a script from synopsis to first draft.

TUTOR: Simon Bennetts. A script assessor for Universal Pictures Australia, the NSW FTO and Beyond International, Simon script edited Alec Morgan’s Hunt Angels, a feature length docudrama about the life of Australian filmmaker Rupert Katner. Simon has a BA (Honours) in Drama from Flinders University, majoring in Scriptwriting and Direction for Documentary and Drama, he also teaches at the Writer's Studio, Macquarie University. Simon is in pre-production on a feature length screenplay with Sydney film Director Kim Reddin and Flatliners writer Robert L Galinsky. Simon’s short films have also won awards and been screened on SBS.

6 X Wed 6.15pm – 9.15pm [18 hrs] | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | 14 | 21 | 28 | Apr 4
$339 | $399 non-members | 14 places | At Metro Screen

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

HOMEAGE
Five Day Workshop in Mobile Media Creation
Metro Screen is now accepting applications for Homage, an innovative and heavily subsidised mobile media content creation workshop. March 26 – 30.

Create content for portable devices, including mobile phones, wireless computers and portable media players.
Applications close March 2.

COURSE OUTLINE
The workshop will cover writing, capturing, editing, recording, conforming and compressing using the latest digital media tools and techniques in a hands-on environment. By the end of the workshop you will have learnt to create your own mobile phone playable movie, a website and a DVD.

THEME
Think of one person you admire, adore, hold in high regard, or just think is pretty damn cool. Be they a figure of myth, mirth or history, your best friend or ex-lover, or maybe just someone you met in the street, saw on a train or went to school with. Whether they’re a rock star, a politician or your mum, this is your chance to document their influence.

Mon – Fri 9.30am – 5.30pm [30hrs] | Mar 26 – 30
Valued at $1200 Metro Screen is offering this course for just $175 with assistance from the NSW Film and Television Office | 15 places | At Metro Screen

Application details are available by contacting David Opitz Projects Manager on 02 9361 5318 or d.opitz@metroscreen.org.au or log onto http://www.metroscreen.org.au/digiContent.html

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

FILM SCHOLARSHIP IN NEWCASTLE
With Metro Screen
Metro Screen is running a Film Scholarship program in the Newcastle area between March and June 2007.

Each student will produce a 7-25 minute film about their lives, and will be involved in all areas from scriptwriting to shooting, editing, sound design and grading.

Be taught by industry professionals and start your career in film and video. This course is fully funded by DET (The Department of Education & Training), with students only paying an enrolment fee of $275 for this 13 week course, valued at over $4000.

START YOUR FILM CAREER NOW WITH THE METRO SCREEN FILMMAKING SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

For further information & an application package, please contact Melissa Anastasi, Metro Screen’s Mobile Unit Coordinator on:
02 9361 5318 or via email mobileunit@metroscreen.org.au

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

INDIGENOUS FILMMAKER’S SCHOLARSHIP
Train For Free
This Scholarship offers Indigenous people in NSW the opportunity to enrol in Metro Screen training courses to the value of $1000. Whether you are just starting out, or need to up skill, Metro Screen has a comprehensive training program that can support your professional development.

The Indigenous Filmmaker’s Scholarship is funded through the NSW Film and Television Office. To apply contact Metro Screen’s Training Department on 02 9361 5318 or check the website.

return to contents

EQUIPMENT, SERVICES + SPACES TO RENT
Overview
Based centrally in Sydney Metro Screen offers hi definition digital video production equipment and post production facilities, a chroma key studio, experienced crew, extensive duplication and printing services and we can even produce your media for you.

Our professional, reliable and friendly staff can provide creative and cost effective services to meet your needs and budget.

Call us for a quote 02 9361 5318 or come in to Paddington for a chat today.
Check the web for a full list of equipment, services and spaces to rent or download our current rate card here http://www.metroscreen.org.au/pdf/rate_card.pdf

return to contents

JUMP START
Metro Screen Funding Opportunity
Offering $40,000 in subsidy to film and screen productions in NSW.

Applications for the first of four rounds in 2007 is March 5.

Jump Start can provide you with subsidised access to reliable, sort after equipment, current technical facilities and production support.

Previous successful Jump Start applicants have included:
Peter Humble’s MIZU was selected for screening at the Liquid Lens Festival in Brisbane at the Dendy Cinemas Brisbane.

Khoa Do’s critically acclaimed The Finished People nominated for two AFI awards.

Stuart Vauvert’s Hitch Cock screened in over fifteen international festivals.

APPLYING
Applicants must download documents from the Metro Screen website http://www.metroscreen.com.au/jumpstart.html and must be current Metro Screen members $55 or $35 concession for 12 mths.

For more information please contact Metro Screen’s Project Manager David Opitz d.opitz@metroscreen.org.au or check out the Metro Screen website.

return to contents

METRO SCREEN MYSPACE
Become Our Friend
Metro Screen now has a myspace site, to check us out and become our friend go to
http://www.myspace.com/metroscreen

return to contents

PRODUCER NEEDED
Short Film
A seriously dedicated short film producer needed for 25minute film. Award winning director and writer are looking for an experienced producer to collaborate with, on this 'Ealing' style comedy. We are putting in an application for AFC Short Film Funding due in March, so besides being passionate about drama, we're looking for someone who has had success with FTO or AFC funding, and keen to put their producing skills to the test on a bigger project. Also, a desire to develop a fruitful working relationship with mad keen filmmakers doesn't hurt!

If this is you, contact Sandra ASAP on pembrokeroad@hotmail.com or 0407 741 077

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

CALL FOR FILMMAKING TUTORS
Metro Screen
Metro Screen is based in Paddington, Sydney and is an organisation dedicated to providing training, equipment hire and production support for filmmakers.

The Metro Screen training department runs a huge range of courses, both accredited and non-accredited, and would like to hear from qualified tutors and teachers who wish to be considered for freelance and contract work as a tutor. We are interested to hear from professionals in any area(s) of film and multimedia production. We are particularly eager to hear from people who have teaching experience and who are experts in one of the following:

Final Cut Pro
Multimedia (eg Animation, DVD Production, Web)
Camera operation and cinematography
Multi-skilling (eg, teaching the basic of directing, shooting and editing)

Individuals with a Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment are especially encouraged to be in touch.

Please email your CV and contact details to Claire Morgan, Metro Screen Training Manager at c.morgan@metroscreen.org.au together with a brief statement on the kind of work you are interested in.

Further information about Metro Screen can be found at http://www.metroscreen.org.au

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

FOOTAGE OF CYPRUS WANTED
For Film
I am currently making a documentary about my family from Cyprus, and am looking for footage of Cyprus, both from the past and now.

If you have any footage that may be appropriate, I will pay for a dub and acknowledge your work in the documentary.

If you are interested, please contact me – Melissa Anastasi, at anastazi@bigpond.net.au or on mobile: 0410 657 915

return to contents

PLAY NOW ACT NOW
Last Chance to Share in $12,000 in Cash Prizes

The competition deadline is Friday 23rd February.

If you live in NSW, are aged 16 to 25yrs and have a story to tell about alcohol and other drugs, you should start filming, writing or designing NOW.

Play Now Act Now recognises that young people do and will drink alcohol and use other drugs, and sets out to minimise the harms associated with this. As a health education initiative, Play Now Act Now invites NSW residents aged 16 to 25yrs to produce creative resources that examine issues around I the usage of alcohol and other drugs eg health, social, political, moral or ethical issues.

There are 4 main categories in this year’s competition: Film/Video, Creative Writing, Graphic Design and Mobile Movies. Now in its fifth year, this competition is an exciting opportunity for young people wanting to express themselves through film, design and writing. Finalists from each category will be premiered at the Competition Launch on Wednesday 18th April 2007 @ the Chauvel Cinemas Paddington, before heading off on a state-wide tour.

Finalists also have a chance to win a share in $12,000 in cash prize.

Entry is free & open to NSW residents aged 16 to 25 years.

Katrina Douglas Project Manager on 02 9361 5318 or k.douglas@metroscreen.org.au or check out the website http://www.playnowactnow.net.au

Play Now Act Now is collaboration between NSW Health & Metro Screen.

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

ANGRY FILM FESTIVAL
Call for Entries
The only criteria for entries to this short film festival is that films must be under 15 minutes and can be of any genre.

Deadline for entries is 12th February. With the entry fee an affordable $10.

Based in Melbourne this festival offers many activities so check the website for an entry form www.angryproductions.org

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

2007 SYDNEY FILM FESTIVAL DENDY AWARDS
Call for Entries
Entries are now open for the 2007 Dendy Awards for Australian Short Films, our prestigious competition for Australian productions under 60 minutes in length. Entry form and regulations are attached. Closing date for entries: 19 February 2007. Please contact the festival for further information and entry forms. Phone 02 9318 0999

http://www.sydneyfilmfestival.org

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

URBAN THEATRE PROJECT, SYDNEY NSW
Call for Actors
Urban Theatre Projects is looking for male and female performers from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds for its next major project, The Last Highway, which will be created in the second half of 2007 and presented in early 2008. We will be holding day-long group auditions on Feb 15 and 17 and are encouraging anyone with an interest in performing to come along and get to know the company, and allow us to get to know you. While UTP is a professional company, we often work with artists from non-conventional training backgrounds, or different artistic disciplines. So, you don’t need to have had years of performance experience.

For more information call 02 9707 2111 or visit www.urbantheatre.com.au
Deadline15 February

return to contents
---------------------------------------------------

CASTING NOTICE
Funded Film
Bonfire. Short drama: 20minute film. To be shot in the Western Suburbs in the first half of 2007.

Bonfire has recently received funding from the NSW Film and Television Office, Young Filmmakers Fund. This enables the project to provide a small fee to main character actors.

SYNOPSIS
Mira is a wild little girl hungry for her father's love. Mig is a factory worker so obsessed with saving money, he's too tired and angry for his children. Unable to communicate, their unspoken needs spark off a chain of escalatory violence.

We are only looking for people of Mediterranean, European or Middle-Eastern appearance for this film.
Unless specified the ages outlined below are a guide to the look of each character only.

MIRA – A wild, fiery, imaginative 6 year-old girl. [actor preferably 8 years old or above]

TASSOS – Mira’s cheeky 10 year-old brother. [actor must be 8 years old or above]

MIG – A dark, solitary man with a violent temper. Works as a Crane Driver, obsesses over building a family fortune. 40-60 years

MA – A soft, passive, imaginative woman. 40-50 years

VOULA – An unbearably shy, world-weary girl, tall and thin, 10-16 years

To arrange an audition time, and copy of the script, please send your CV and head shot to:
Katrina Beck (Producer): kbeckal@hotmail.com

return to contents

MY QUEER CAREER
Opening Night and Party

City Recital Hall, 7:30pm Thursday 15 February 2007

The finalists of the 2007 My Queer Career Awards will again raise the curtain for another marvellous festival of queer culture in film. The all Aussie and Kiwi line-up showcases our finest local talent, with 10 superb new works. The best of the year's submissions were curated by an independent panel of judges: Margaret Pomeranz, Anton Enus, Helen Bowden and Ashley Luke.

Join us for the films, the awards ceremony and the glamorous opening night party in the sumptuous surrounds of the City Recital Hall, Angel Place. Frock Up! This is an event not to be missed.

TICKETS: $25 Queer Screen Member / $30 Non-members
City Recital Hall Box Office http://www.cityrecitalhall.com/perf_search.asp

The Mardi Gra Film Festival runs from February 15 – March 1 2007 for all the details check them out at http://www.queerscreen.com.au/j/index.php

return to contents

TUTORS + MEMBERS
Find Success and Broadcasters

Flickerfest 2007 winners included:
Metro Screen member Rene Hernandez, and former student and now tutor Adrian Rostirolla’s short Small Boxes which won the JVC Short Film Award for Best Australian film and the Seed Production Award for Best Australian Original Screenplay.

Metro Screen tutor Heather Oxhenham’s short Sexy Thing won the Fujifilm Australia Award for Best Cinematography in an Australian Short with cinematographer Ben Allen.

Tutor John Janson Moore’s documentary Kidnapped will screen on SBS next Thursday 15 Feb at 8.30pm. This film recently premiered at the International Documentary Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) in competition for the prestigious Silver Wolf Award. The film has sold to broadcasters in Europe, Asia and America and is currently travelling the international festival circuit.

Metro Screen’s Mobile Unit coordinator Melissa Anastasi won funding from the NSW Film and Television Office’s Young Filmmakers Fund for her script Bonfire with producer Katrina Beck.

Metro Screen congratulates all its successful filmmakers.

---------------------------------------------------

Metro Screen vouchers to the value of your choice are also available as gift ideas and are redeemable on all courses, equipment hire, membership and events. http://www.metroscreen.org.au/pdf/Brochure2007.pdf

Items for the eNews must be received by Friday. The Metro Screen eNews receives more items than it can publish and no guarantees for inclusion are made, items are also subject to editing. Please be sure to submit no more than 200 words including the preferred title of your item and contact details to enews@metroscreen.org.au

---------------------------------------------------

Metro Screen membership affords many benefits including discounted courses, equipment hire, entry into our competitions, subsidy funds, and access to our monthly film events, screenings and mentorship programs, not to mention the networking and career development opportunities go to http://www.metroscreen.org.au for all the information.

Metro Screen now sells Inside Film magazines at reception. Just come into Metro Screen and pick up your latest copy of this film industry magazine. Inside Film is a proud sponsor of Metro Screen.

If you know of anyone who may be interested in receiving this e-news please feel free to forward it on.

Metro Screen also provides a notice board located in our foyer, if you would like to use this notice board please forward your notices to metro@metroscreen.org.au and ask for them to be displayed..

return to contents