As part of its training and professional development efforts, the South Carolina Film Commission presents a series of production seminars each year. All workshops are provided to South Carolina residents at no charge and on a regular basis by action of the S.C. Motion Picture Incentive Act, passed by the state legislature in 2004. Click here to join our email list for announcements and registration links for upcoming seminars.
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS:
INDIE FILM DEVELOPMENT
June 1 @ Trident Technical College in North Charleston
As part of Indie Grants prep, the South Carolina Film Commission will be holding a one-day INDIE FILM DEVELOPMENT workshop on Saturday, June 1, at Trident Technical College in North Charleston.
The free seminar takes place from 10a-5p in Building 970 at Trident Technical College (7000 Rivers Ave., North Charleston, SC).
It will be led by experienced industry professionals in four stages of content development -- Story/Creative, Production Management, Physical Production, and Financing/Marketing/Distribution.
It will be capped off with a recent South Carolina independent feature-film as case study and a Q&A on INDIE GRANTS.
Ideal for feature-films, webisodics, proof-of-concepts, docs and shorts, it will serve as a comprehensive primer on the mechanics of developing, creating, and selling content, especially in the independent film space.
REGISTER FOR THE WORKSHOP HERE.
This workshop will take place in person but a limited number of virtual attendee spots (via Zoom) are available. We strongly encourage you to attend in person if at all possible, but if virtual is necessary, there is space to note as such on the above registration form.
With many of these principles required by the INDIE GRANTS application, INDIE GRANTS submissions are a great place to put these concepts into practice right away. The 2024 Funding Cycle is now open.
INDIE GRANTS funds and produces South Carolina short films with a high level of production value and storytelling. Past projects have been official selections of top film festivals such as Sundance, Tribeca, American Black Film Festival, Palm Springs, Austin Film Festival, FantasticFest, Cucalorus, Tall Grass, Slamdance, and many more.
SUBMISSIONS ARE DUE AUG. 5. Review the application and get everything you need here.
PRODUCTION WORKFORCE TRAINING:
Film & Video Production incorporates hundreds of skills many have already learned in other occupations and industries, so is ideal for workers seeking second careers, military veterans, and those entering the workforce. With this in mind, the South Carolina Film Commission and Trident Technical College are providing a slate of production industry workforce training programs this Fall.
Details on each with links to apply are below. All trainings are free and open to any qualified South Carolina resident.
Once completed, trainees will be eligible for paid internships on film, TV and commercial projects through SCFC’s Statewide Production Intern Program. (Placement and other opportunities are NOT guaranteed.)
Each training requires specific qualifications, including the ability to perform ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS specific to these departments. Please review these requirements at each application link to make sure you qualify.
Space is limited and slots are NOT guaranteed. Not everyone who applies will be enrolled. Only those willing to commit to completing the training and are serious about a career in these departments should apply.
RECENT TRAINING WORKSHOPS & EVENTS:
FILM ELECTRICIAN TRAINING with John Reynolds & High Output
March 22-24 | Charleston, SC
The South Carolina Film Commission held a three-day FILM ELECTRICIAN TRAINING March 22-24 at High Output in Charleston, SC. This workforce training was free for eligible South Carolina residents.
Led by Gaffer John David Reynolds, Electrician/Programmer Tori Piper, and High Output Shop Managers, participants received a comprehensive introduction to the workings of an Electric Department for Film and Television. Topics covered included industry overview, key takeaways, electrical basics, and hands-on training related to cabling, distro boxes, generators, lighting set-up, and programming boards.
COSTUMING with The Costuming Academy
Virtual Training & Mentorship
The South Carolina Film Commission teamed up with The Costuming Academy for a comprehensive, virtual training on the production industry Costume Department in October-November 2023. Upon completion, trainees left knowing the language of a Costumer and understand the skills being used, whether they’re starting as a PA or an Entry-level Costumer.
The curriculum was created by Costume veterans Donna Schultz and Sharon Sampson, opening a window into the wealth of knowledge available from industry professionals like themselves. Donna and Sharon lead participants throughout the process, with a live orientation at the start of the course (via Zoom), a live Q&A/Mentor session at the completion of the modules (via Zoom), and six months of access to the TCA community, where they can continue to ask questions and network.
The five courses covered:
Unions & Productions (full overview of every production department and how costumers works with each one)
Entry Level Costumer (what you need to know to get started)
Set Protocol for Costumers
Shopping and Returns
Tools of the Trade
About Donna Schultz
Donna Schultz has led a distinguished career in key positions within the Costuming world on projects such as Big Little Lies, Westworld, Mrs. Davis, and Shazam 2. Beginning in theater 35 years ago, she focused her talents on such specialties as costume manufacturing, touring globally with Michael Jackson and Sheryl Crow.
About Sharon Sampson
In her 38 year career, Emmy-nominated Sharon Sampson has worn every hat in Hollywood’s costuming industry. Her resume includes Cheers, Family Ties, Westworld, Glow, and Mrs. Davis, Costume Designing Becker and feature films Drop Dead and LA Blues. Her unparalleled understanding of the costuming process and seamless understanding of the various roles within the costume department makes her an expert resource for those wishing to gain employment within this rewarding industry.
SET DEC/SET DRESSING with Missy Ricker and Stephen Peterman
Oct. 7-8 at Trident Technical College
The South Carolina Film Commission and Trident Technical College hosted an intensive, two-day SET DECORATION/SET DRESSING workshop Oct. 7-8 at Trident Technical College in North Charleston, SC.
The program was free for qualified South Carolina residents. Led by Set Decorator Missy Ricker and Lead Man Stephen C. Peterman, participants received a comprehensive introduction to the workings of a Set Decoration Department for Film and Television. Trainees also explored the process of Visualizing, Sourcing and Shopping, Budgeting, and Physically Dressing a Set in this hands-on intensive workshop.
About Missy Ricker
Missy is a South Carolina based Set Decorator for the Film and Television Industry. With a MFA in Photography and Filmmaking, Missy began her career as a stagehand at the Virginia Opera and various venues, also working as an Art Director for commercials and television series. She now has dozens of credits as a Set Decorator, including Halloween (2018), Outer Banks Seasons 1-4, and Army Wives.
About Stephen C. Peterman
Steve is a Leadman for the Film and Television industry based in Wilmington, NC. After starting in LA, Steven ended up in Wilmington while working on the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Since then he’s worked on a variety of Film and TV projects, including Betsy’s Wedding, Shanghai Noon, Black Knight, One Tree Hill, and Outer Banks.
INDUSTRY HAIR STYLING with Joyce Gilliard
Sept. 23-24 at ETV Upstate Studios/USC-Upstate
The South Carolina Film Commission and Urban League of the Upstate partnered up for a two-day PRODUCTION INDUSTRY HAIR STYLING workshop, hosted by ETV Studios and USC-Upstate in Spartanburg, SC.
Led by noted Hair Department Head Joyce Gilliard (Rise, Women of the Movement, Genuis [season 4]), the training was for current hair professionals seeking careers in the professional production industry. It focused on an industry orientation, Hair Department overview, wigs, period hairstyling, laying hair techniques for character development, and other info.
VIRTUAL PRODUCTION/LED VOLUME WALL WORKSHOP
June 17 in Greenville, SC
Indie Grants and the South Carolina Film Commission hosted a half-day technical workshop on Virtual Production on June 17th at Pronk Studios in Greenville, SC. Powered by Unreal Engine, Pronk has the only virtual production LED wall in the Carolinas. Watch a recording of the workshop above.
The workshop included an interactive demo where participants set up a scene with LED Wall from scratch (including lens calibration and lighting), as well as an overview of the technology, history, limitations, and ideal scenarios of virtual production. It was particularly suited for DPs, Directors, Producers, Camera Operators, Camera Assistants, Set Decs, and G/E Crew who have been or will be incorporating virtual production technology into their projects.
GRIP TRAINING
May 19-21 | USC-Upstate | Spartanburg, SC
The South Carolina Film Commission and Trident Technical College’s held a three-day Grip workshop for emerging South Carolina crew, serving as key basic training in the professional Grip department.
The training was led by Key Grip Geoff Herbert and focused on production industry orientation/overview, hands on training with Grip gear (including working off Grip trucks), and other fundamental instruction. Trainees who completed the program are now eligible for intern placement on film, TV and commercial sets as a strategic path for beginning a career in South Carolina’s production industry.
Trainees came from all ages and backgrounds (over 18-years-old only). The production industry incorporates hundreds of skill-sets and is an ideal place for workers seeking second careers, military veterans, and those just joining the workforce. Grip department is particularly suited for those with basic mechanical aptitude.
The training was hosted by USC-Upstate at SCETV studios in Spartanburg, and was also sponsored by Urban League of the Upstate and Illumination Dynamics. CHECK OUT MORE PICS HERE.
S.C. YOUNG FILMMAKERS PROJECT TOP TEN SCREENING
May 20, 2023 | Spotlight Capital 8 Cinemas | Columbia, SC
Looking for the next Spielberg? Scorsese? Gerwig? Then the Young Filmmakers screening on May 20 in Columbia was the place to be.
South Carolina Young Filmmakers Project is an annual high school filmmaking competition where students from across the state submit two-minute short films. Each year all entrants are required to incorporate a specific prop into their two-minute short films. This year that prop was playing cards.
After a record number of entries and thorough judging process, the Top Ten finalists and winners named at a special screening at Spotlight Cinemas Capital 8 in Columbia. Their films were shown on the big screen, with Q&A and a reception on-site afterwards.
“The contest has proven to be a great thing for young South Carolina filmmakers,” said Matt Storm, Director of the South Carolina Film Commission. “It’s an opportunity to practice the craft of video storytelling, which is a major driver for all industries at this point, and show it to statewide audiences.”
“We continue to be impressed with the skill and talent Young Filmmakers brings out,” said Glenn Seale, Dean of Film, Media and Visual Arts at Trident Technical College in North Charleston, one of the contest’s main partners. “We encourage everyone to come and see what these filmmakers have cooked up.”
The winners are listed below, with links to each of their films.
FIRST PLACE:
Shuffled
Isaac Cinnamon
Summerville High School
Summerville, SC
SECOND PLACE:
Look Up
Myla Williams
Fort Dorchester High School
North Charleston, SC
THIRD PLACE:
Fold
Skylar Torrey & Sofia Sequeira
Catawba Ridge High School
Fort Mill, SC
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
A War on Cards
Sarah Bradley Wells
D.W. Daniel High School
Clemson, SC
Summer
Dani Werbel & Anne Werber
Lucy Beckham High School
Mt. Pleasant, SC
INDIE GRANTS SCREENINGS @ REEDY REELS & BEAUFORT INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVALS
Greenville and Beaufort audiences were some of the first to see the most recent Indie Grants short films through screenings at Reedy Reels Film Festival and Beaufort International Film Festivals in February 2023. The films represent an exciting mix of genres and styles and will include Q&A with the filmmakers and Indie Grants staff.
2023 Indie Grants funding cycle opens in April. Click here for more info.
Indie Grants is a training and professional development program from Trident Technical College for independent filmmakers and other production professionals in South Carolina. It produces high-quality narrative projects that have screened at festivals such as Sundance, Tribeca, Palm Springs, Austin, Stiges, San Mediera, Dragoncon, and hundreds more.
“No other state in this country has a program like this,” said Indie Grants Producer Brad Jayne. “It’s proven to be a powerful way to show off the production community we have here in South Carolina.”
Check out a video on Indie Grants here.
Film screening included:
BEACHED
Two local boys help a vacationing college student retrace her steps after a reckless Spring Break night.
DAY PASS
Out on a day pass from her addiction rehab, Teri is determined to avoid a difficult conversation about her illness by winning her daughter a stuffed bear.
THE MANAGER POSITION
With no job on the horizon and nowhere to go, Phillip returns to his abandoned office building. Where his world starts to open up in unexpected ways.
TALK BLACK
HBO Short Film Award Finalist
A timid engineer develops a wild and expressive split personality as she deals with the boys’ club at work.
THE WAGES OF SIN
A middle-aged widow is blackmailed by her dead husband.
THE OBSCURE CHARM OF LOSS
A moment of great turmoil reveals illuminating (re)connections.
PRODUCTION ACCOUNTING WORKSHOP ON DEC. 10
with Andrew Chalk (The Righteous Gemstones, Shrill)
Indie Grants and the South Carolina Film Commission will host a Production Accounting training seminar on Saturday, Dec. 10, from 1-4pm at Trident Technical College’s North Charleston campus.
Presented by Production Accountant Andrew Chalk (The Righteous Gemstones, Shrill), the workshop will be an overview of production accounting, including budgeting, cost reporting, and day-to-day operations, and also explore departments and breakdowns specific to the industry. Andrew and representatives from the South Carolina Film Commission will also discuss accounting and auditing related to the state’s motion picture incentive program.
The seminar is free and open to the public. REGISTER HERE.
The training will be especially constructive for those with a background and/or training in general accounting, with discussion on incorporating those skills into a career in the production industry (where there is a significant need for Accountants).
Production Accountant positions exist on various tiers and are responsible for managing finances and maintaining financial records during film or TV production. Working closely with the producer and the production office, the job includes preparing schedules and budgets for film productions and managing the day-to-day accounting and financial reporting against the budgets. The average annual salary is approximately $60,300, with salaries ranging from$50,000 to $200,000. Production Accountants typically work on a freelance basis.
Find out more about Production Accounting careers here:
Production Accountant Job Profile, from ScreenSkills
Production Accountants: The 21 Most Asked Questions, from Wrapbook
Explaining Hollywood: How to get a job as a production accountant, from LA Times
FREE INDIE GRANTS SCREENING ON NOV. 13
at Cannon Street Arts Center in Charleston
A mix of cinematic genres and styles collided on November 13 at the Cannon St. Arts Center in Charleston, with a free screening of the most recent Indie Grants short films. The program was immediately followed by Q&A with the filmmakers and reception.
Indie Grants is a training and professional development program for independent filmmakers and other production professionals in South Carolina. It produces high-quality narrative projects that have screened at festivals such as Sundance, Tribeca, Palm Springs, Austin, Stiges, San Mediera, Dragoncon, and hundreds more.
“No other state in this country has a program like this,” said Indie Grants Producer Brad Jayne. “It’s proven to be a powerful way to show off the production community we have here in South Carolina.”
“This screening really celebrated that,” continued Matt Storm, Director of the South Carolina Film Commission. “These are inspired stories made by our state's talented filmmakers, and this was a great opportunity for South Carolina audiences to see them."
RECENT WORKSHOPS & EVENTS:
S.C. YOUNG FILMMAKERS PROJECT SCREENING
at Richland Library Sandhills in Columbia
After a record number of entries and an exhaustive judging process by our panel of esteemed evaluators, the 2022 Young Filmmakers Project finalists were screened at the YFP Film Festival on June 11 at Richland Library Sandhills in Columbia. The event was free and open to the public.
Each two-minute short was shown on the big screen, followed by Q&A with the filmmakers, announcement of the winners, and awarding of prizes. There was a brief reception afterwards, where the young filmmakers, professional filmmakers, and other members of the community mingled.
Canon Explorer of Light
with LAUREN GREENFIELD
Indie Grants and the South Carolina Film Commission partnered with Association of Media Photographers/SC and Canon USA for an Explorer of Light presentation with noted documentary filmmaker and commercial director Lauren Greenfield. Lauren's films include the Sundance award-winning The Queen of Versailles, Generation Wealth, Thin, and The Kingmaker.
Lauren's presentation took place on Feb. 24 at the Aeronautic Training Center at Trident Tech in North Charleston. It was free and open the public. She shared clips and stories from her illustrious career, marking her evolution as a documentary and commercial director and giving attendees tangible wisdom on technical and creative approaches when navigating the respective challenges of documentary and commercial production.
Lauren is an Emmy-award-winning filmmaker/photographer and a two-time Directors’ Guild and Writers’ Guild award nominee known for groundbreaking work on consumerism, youth culture and gender for the past 25 years.
Her documentary films and photographs have been screened, published, and exhibited around the world, as well as collected by cultural institutions such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), J. Paul Getty Museum, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), Smithsonian, and the International Center of Photography.
Following her Emmy-nominated film debut in 2006 with Thin, Greenfield began to direct commercials as she continued her feature film work. Her viral ad, #LikeAGirl, swept commercial awards, including a 2015 Emmy, 14 Cannes Lions, and 7 Clios. It was named 3rd Best Ad of the Decade and earned Greenfield the #1 Director/Most Awarded Director by AdAge (the first woman to top this list).
The seminar was part of ASMP’s Southeastern Film & Photo Conference. View photos from the event below. (Photos © Stan Foxworthy, ASMP SC.)
INDIE GRANTS WORK-IN-PROGRESS SCREENING
at 2022 Beaufort International Film Festival
Beaufort International Film Festival hosted a special screening of Indie Grants short films on Saturday, Feb. 26. The program was an eclectic mix of recent projects presented as works-in-progress for this special audience.
Filmmakers from all five films were on hand to discuss their projects and get feedback from the preview audience, as they complete post-production and finishing and begin the international film festival circuit.
Indie Grants staff were also available to answer questions on the program. Indie Grants fund and produce films by South Carolina filmmakers. 2022 funding cycle is now open. Review the application and get more info on the program here.
The screening was free and open to the public. Find out more on Beaufort International Film Festival at https://www.beaufortfilmfestival.com/.
AUDITIONING FOR FILM & TELEVISION
with Casting Director Matthew Sefick, CSA
Booking a film or television role is all about the audition -- the skills that gets your submission noticed, on the short list, and on your way to a possible on-screen credit and paycheck.
Casting Director Matthew Sefick, CSA, and the South Carolina Film Commission offered a FREE workshop on Nov. 6 to South Carolinians for this very purpose, held at Trident Technical College's North Charleston campus.
The intensive workshop focused on ways actors can make their auditions more engaging for the audience of casting directors, producers, and directors. With two sessions, Matt broke down the intricacies of the casting process and tips and techniques to make submissions stand out. This included working with each actor on a sample role and submission.
The workshop was free and open to the public. Check out pics below.
ABOUT MATTHEW SEFICK, CSA
Matthew is a casting director based out of Charleston, SC. He's a member of the Casting Society of America as well as the Television Academy. With over 15 years of experience in the film and television industry, his credits include USA's Queen of the South, Hallmark's USS Christmas, Showtime's Homeland, and Lifetime's Army Wives.
BOOM & SCISSOR LIFT CERTIFICATION TRAINING
The South Carolina Film Commission and Trident Technical College will holed a one-day BOOM & SCISSOR LIFT CERTIFICATION training in North Charleston on Nov. 10, FREE for South Carolina production crew. All participants received a three-year license to operate the machinery. The training consisted of classroom safety training in the morning, ending with a written safety test. Check out pics below.
WIDE ANGLE PITCH CONFERENCE WITH EFFIE BROWN
WIDE ANGLE came back with a vengeance... and in person. (Socially distanced and following all COVID protocols, of course.)
The diversity and inclusion media incubator from Indie Grants and the South Carolina Film Commission hosted a public Pitch Conference on Saturday, May 15, at 1pm at the Nickelodeon Theater in Columbia. The conference was led by noted producer Effie Brown and a panel of esteemed industry professionals from across the country.
Over the past seven months, teams of South Carolina content creators developed film, television and web content under the tutelage of Effie, culminating with the participants pitching their projects in five minutes or less to the panel...and live audience.
That's right. The pitches were public and the event was open. It was a great opportunity for writers and creators to witness the process as they develop their own projects.
Audience members also had the opportunity to pitch their projects to the panel, with cash prizes awarded to the Best Wide Angle Pitch & the Best Audience Pitch! Wide Angle Winner was Michele Mortensen, and Public Pitch Winner was Eugene Washington.
The panel offered feedback on each pitch to help prepare the filmmakers for actual shopping and development. Panelists included:
EFFIE BROWN
Effie Brown is an award winning film, television, and digital producer, known for her highly acclaimed, multi-platform repertoire as well as championing inclusion and diversity in Hollywood, both behind and in front of the camera. In January of 2020 Effie was named CEO of Gamechanger Films, a development fund that buys, options and develops IP for film, television, streaming and digital platforms. Past projects include Real Women Have Curves (directed by Patricia Cardosa in 2002 and winner of Sundance Film Festival’s Audience Award), In The Cut (directed by Jane Campion in 2003), Rocket Science (directed by Jeffrey Blitz, winner of the 2007 Grand Jury Price for directing at Sundance and recipient of three Independent Spirit Awards nominations), Dear White People (Special Jury Prize at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival and 2015 Independent Spirit Award-winner), and Lee Daniels Entertainment’s Star on Fox.
ANDRE ROYO
An industry veteran and sought after actor, Andre Royo’s career spans over more than 20 years. He played the iconic role of ‘Bubbles’ on the critically acclaimed HBO series The Wire, appearing on all 52 episodes, and has been featured in shows such as Empire, Kingdom, Agent Carter, Heroes, and Party Down. Royo executive produced the independent feature film Would You Rather and produced and starred in Calloused Hands.
AVRIL SPEAKS
Avril Speaks has been carving out her path as a bold, innovative content creator for several years, not only as a producer and director but also during her former days as a professor at Howard University. Avril produced the award-winning film Jinn, which premiered in Narrative Competition at SXSW and won Special Jury Recognition for Writing. Jinn gained distribution through MGM/Orion Classics and continues to be seen throughout the world. Avril has also produced several films including Hosea and the upcoming comedy Dotty & Soul, starring Leslie Uggams, Gary Owen, David Koechner and Margot Bingham. Avril was an Associate Producer on the TNT docu-series American Race and has helped produce both scripted and unscripted content for BET, Coca Cola, Essence, and others.
Due to COVID-19 protocols, capacity for this event is severely limited. Please only register if you plan to attend.
INDIE GRANTS WORK-IN-PROGRESS SCREENING ON MAY 14
Also included in the FILMMAKER FOCUS symposium was an Indie Grants work-in-progress screening on Friday, May 14th, at 7:30pm, also at the Nickelodeon Theater. The last two Indie Grants shorts were screened with interactive feedback discussion immediately following; a great way for the audience to participate in the post-production process and see the films before they hit the international film festival circuit.
Indie Grants funds and produces short films by South Carolina filmmakers. This year's funding cycle is now open and Indie Grants producers and previous recipients will be on hand at the screening to discuss submissions and the program. Submissions due July 26. Check out indiegrants.org for more info.
MEDIA ARTS TRAINING: FILM TECHNIQUES
Saturday, Feb. 6, 2021
9:30am to 12:30pm ET
Held Virtually Via Zoom Webinar
Trident Technical College film faculty and South Carolina producers presented a training webinar on the core fundamentals of professional production on Saturday Feb. 6, 2021, from 9:30am-12:30pm.
Using short content case studies, the interactive presentation focused on Script/Story, Camerawork, Lighting, Design, Sound (location and post), and Editing, sharing key info and practices used in the production of film, TV and web content.
The workshop was free and is open to all, but structured especially for South Carolina Media Arts educators and students as they’re exploring professional production and its career paths. Watch a recording of the webinar here.
The webinar also discussed the 2021 YOUNG FILMMAKERS PROJECT. With entries for the high-school filmmaking contest due March 22, this is a great opportunity for prospective entrants and educators to up their game. The Top Ten entries will screen at a special program and the winners will receive cash and other prizes. Get more info on the YOUNG FILMMAKERS PROJECT here.
Educators who attend will receive documentation of these training hours for use in respective professional development/re-certification requirements.
DEVELOPMENT INSIDERS: FROM LANDING AN AGENT TO LANDING DISTRIBUTION
Presented by Steve Muller & Kip Konwiser
Held Virtually Via Zoom Webinar
Saturday, Nov. 7th, 2020
Agent Steve Muller (Innovative Artists Agency, Senior Talent Agent & Co-Head of Comedy) and Primetime-Emmy-Award-winning producer Kip Konwiser led an inspiring, informative webinar on how to get your foot in the door in the industry, and actually make content happen.
Steve kicked off the workshop sharing his experience as a working Agent, with insights on how talent is discovered, packaged and marketed. Kip then went into detail on his journey producing films, and the nuts and bolts of development, financing, production and distribution of today’s movies, television and live events.
Both answered questions from the audience throughout, giving them key info on the way the industry works, and how to succeed in it.
VIEW RECORDING OF ‘PRODUCING OVERVIEW’ SECTION HERE. The webinar was free and open to the public.
WIDE ANGLE PITCH CONFERENCE WITH EFFIE BROWN
Held Virtually Via Zoom Webinar
Saturday, April 25, 2020
2pm ET
No matter the genre or audience, knowing how to pitch your media project from is essential. Participants from Indie Grants’ WIDE ANGLE Production Lab showcased this skill to a panel of industry professional and a live streaming audience, as they pitched their projects at the WIDE ANGLE PITCH CONFERENCE on Saturday, April 25.
There were 11 genre-spanning film and TV project pitches from participants in the WIDE ANGLE production lab. Effie moderated, with each panelist sharing feedback after the pitch. Following the Wide Angle pitches, audience members also had an opportunity to pitch to the panel.
The esteemed panel were:
ANDRE ROYO
An industry veteran, Royo’s career spans over more than 20 years. He played the iconic role of ‘Bubbles’ on the critically acclaimed HBO series The Wire, appearing on all 52 episodes, and has appeared in a variety of other shows, including Marvel’s Agent Carter, NBC’s Heroes, and Starz's Party Down. Royo executive produced the independent feature film Would You Rather and produced and starred in Calloused Hands. Royo won the Best Actor Award at South by Southwest in 2016 for the indie film Hunter Gatherer.
REBECCA GREEN
Green produced It Follows and I'll See You In My Dreams, two of the top grossing and critically acclaimed independent films of 2015. A 2017 Women at Sundance Fellow, Green was named one of Variety’s ’10 Producers to Watch’ and was nominated for the Producer's Award at the 2016 Film Independent Spirit Awards. She serves as the Creative Advisor for the Film Independent Producing Lab and is a member of the Academy of of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
KISHA IMANI CAMERON
Cameron recently served as Head of Content for 4th Movement, an initiative created to mechanize the opportunity around social equity. She previously held the post of COO of Ghetto Film School. Through her production company Completion Films, Kisha created the Focus Features Africa First Short Film Program and has an extensive background in film development at New Line Cinema, Walden Media, and others. Her producing credits include Spike Lee’s Bamboozled and Raoul Peck’s Sometimes in April for HBO.
CLINT BOWIE
Bowie is the Artistic Director of the New Orleans Film Society, where he manages the curation of the organization's year-round programming, including the Academy Award–qualifying New Orleans Film Festival. He works closely with the organization’s artist service programs, including the Southern Producers Lab, Emerging Voices Mentorship Program, and the newly launched Southern Filmmaker Travel Fund. He has served on review committees for ITVS, Creative Capital, NEA, FilmNorth, and Latino Public Broadcasting.
WIDE ANGLE is an ongoing production lab designed to boost diversity and inclusion in the production community, from the South Carolina Film Commission, Trident Technical College, and Indie Grants. Over the last six months South Carolina filmmakers have been developing film, television and web content under the tutelage of Effie Brown. Click here for more info.
Check out photos of last year’s WIDE ANGLE Pitch Conference here, and more info on other workshops at this link.
We hope to 'see' you there! Feel free to reach out with any questions.
INDIE GRANTS WORK-IN-PROGRESS SCREENINGS
BEAUFORT INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
1pm on Saturday, Feb. 22
University of South Carolina @ Beaufort Center for the Arts
805 Carteret St.
Beaufort, SC
Free and open to the public.
INDIE GRITS FILM FESTIVAL
(cancelled)
The Nickelodeon Theater
1607 Main St.
Columbia, SC
Free and open to the public.
Check out the 2019 Indie Grants short films before they start their run on the international film festival circuit at these free, exclusive work-in-progress preview screening. Indie Grants fund and produce short films by South Carolina filmmakers, bringing in top-notch production professionals to help them make their movies. Recent collaborators include DP Russell Carpenter (Titanic, Avatar 2), actress Anna Camp (Pitch Perfect, Good Girls Revolt), actor A.J. Bowen (You’re Next, The Sacrament), DP Peter Simonite (Tree of Life 2nd Unit, Song to Song) and writer Brad Land (Goat). Check out indiegrants.org for more info. Next year’s funding cycle opens March 2020.
INDIE GRANTS RETROSPECTIVE SCREENING
At the Charleston Film Festival. Sponsored by Carolina Film Alliance.
Saturday, March 7, 2020
4:30pm-6:00pm
The Terrace Theater
1956 Maybank Highway
Charleston, SC 29412
Indie Grants is teaming up with the Carolina Film Alliance and the Terrace Theater for a special retrospective screening of award-winning Indie Grants short films from the past several years. The event takes place at 4:30pm on March 7 as part of the Charleston Film Festival.
The filmmakers and Indie Grants staff will be on-hand for Q&A immediately afterwards, including information on the program. Indie Grants fund and produce short films by South Carolina filmmakers, bringing in top-notch professionals to help them make their film. Next funding cycle is March-June 2020; check out www.indiegrants.org/indie-grants for more information.
All proceeds go to Carolina Film Alliance. Click here for tickets. The short films screening include:
SAD STEVE (2017)
Written & Directed by Eric B. Shanks
Produced by John Reynolds, Ed Tilden
Starring Cate Freedman, Alex Stags, Elio Schwartz, Alex Digiacinto
A newly single man struggles to find some precious alone time after a recent break-up,
DIRTY SILVERWARE (2012)
Written & Directed by Steve Daniels
In this dark, whimsical fantasy, a man travels deep into the forest to stop a creature from creating cursed silverware that brings unhappiness to the world.
THE FINAL ADVENTURE OF JOHN & ELEANOR GREENE (2016)
Written by Matthew Aughtry
Directed by Maria White and Matthew Mebane
John and Eleanor Greene have been married for 50 years. When John dies before their golden anniversary trip to Charleston, Eleanor bravely decides to honor their half-century of life together and takes the trip alone.
SCRIPT & STORY WORKSHOP WITH TREVOR MUNSON
Screenwriter and instructor Trevor Munson worked with South Carolina writers and filmmakers on the steps of developing a great story and writing a great script at a one-day SCREENWRITING WORKSHOP on Saturday, Feb. 15.
Designed for all levels of experience, sections included how to write a powerful teaser, create a unique and specific world, develop interesting characters, and clarify the tone of your script. Interspersed throughout was time for participants to work on and workshop these various components in small groups using their own original concepts. Trevor also delved into three-act screenwriting structure with examples from movies, and discussed short film scriptwriting with pointers on Indie Grants submissions. (The next Indie Grants submissions cycle begins in March 2020. Find out more about Indie Grants here.)
This workshop was free and open to the public.
ABOUT TREVOR: Trevor Munson grew up in Texas where he earned an M.A. in English Literature from Texas State University. After graduating with honors, he moved to Los Angeles, where his spec script Lone Star State of Mind, starring Josh Jackson and Jamie King and John Cougar Mellencamp, was bought and made by Sony ScreenGems.
Soon after, he adapted his debut novel Angel of Vengeance into a pilot script that became the basis for the CBS television series Moonlight starring Alex O’Loughlin (Hawaii Five-0) for which he served as co-creator and co-Executive Producer. The series won the People’s Choice award for Best New Drama.
Trevor has subsequently pitched and sold several other television projects to ABC, Sony, and NBC. His children’s book Fletcher Freek and the Voodoo Guru was optioned by The Disney Channel to be developed as a live action movie which he wrote in conjunction with Meg LaFauve (Inside Out).
On top of his busy writing career, Trevor also believes in making time to share his years of knowledge and expertise with a younger generation of writers and filmmakers. In addition to consulting on scripts and leading targeted writing workshops, he currently teaches a thesis prep writing class for the University of Southern California.
LOCATIONS MANAGEMENT WITH MAC GORDON
Geared towards emerging filmmakers and other production staff, Mac Gordon let a one-day seminar the ins-and-outs of Locations Management, focusing on the skills needed and professionalism required to become successful as a Locations Manager and Locations Assistant. Mac is a Founding Member of the Location Managers Guild International and is also a member of Teamster Local 399. He has accumulated over 26 years of Location Management experience, working both TV and feature films. Areas of Specialty include: Los Angeles, Michigan, Upstate NY, Atlanta, and the Southeastern US.
Mac’s professional bio runs deep, including: The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Solace, and Ride Along (1& 2). Television projects include MacGyver, Monk, Containment, Quantico, Necessary Roughness and X Files among others.
P.A. BOOT CAMP
'P.A. Bootcamp is not a school. Not a class. Not a seminar. Not a powerpoint presentation.
P.A. Bootcamp is a two-day thorough, intensive, real-world JOB TRAINING program.
Our goal is to mold you into the kind of Set/Office P.A. shows want to hire'
-Jody Brockway
Sept. 28-29, 2019
9am- 5pm
Trident Technical College
Building 950
7000 Rivers Ave.
North Charleston, SC
On September 28-29th, production industry veteran Jody Brockway and a team of highly experienced professional Production Assistants led a FREE 2-day P.A. BOOTCAMP. This extensive workshop was hands-on and intense, with the goal of participants learning everything necessary to work as a P.A. on any film or television set and do the job RIGHT from day one. Participants were immersed in a reality based classroom: working from a model production office, with 'real-life' production paperwork, using radios, operating under set protocols, navigating how the A.D. team functions and utilizing all gear & professional supplies.
The seminar was interactive and challenging, and prepared participants for the “REAL WORLD” of production. See www.pabootcamp.com for further details.
2019 WIDE ANGLE PROJECT PITCH CONFERENCE
Starting in September 2018, 15 South Carolina filmmakers have developed film, television and web content under the tutelage of Effie T. Brown through Indie Grants’ WIDE ANGLE PROJECT, an ongoing production lab and diversity and inclusion effort. As the culmination of this pilot program, the filmmakers presented their projects as five-to-ten-minute pitches to a panel of industry professionals. And other South Carolina writers and content creators were able to watch it all unfold.
The panel consisted of AGC Studios exec Glendon Palmer, recent exec at Discovery Networks and General Manager of Animal Planet Patrice K. Andrews, and former VP/Creative Director at NBC Universal Kendall Bowlin. Each filmmaker presented their pitch, after which the panel offered honest, constructive feedback on their pitches and projects as they prepare them for actual shopping and development. The audience also had opportunities to ask the filmmakers questions on their projects.
Check out photos of the event here. And click here to learn more about WIDE ANGLE PROJECT.
2018-2019 WIDE ANGLE filmmakers with the panel of industry executives who participated after the May Pitch Conference. Photo by @kbdirects.
S.C. YOUNG FILMMAKERS PROJECT TOP TEN SCREENING
Each year Indie Grants, the South Carolina Film Commission and Trident Technical College holds a statewide filmmaking competition for high school students, the SOUTH CAROLINA YOUNG FILMMAKERS PROJECT. These young filmmakers are challenged to tell a compelling story in two-minutes or less, with technical and creative parameters built into the assignment.
After a record number of entries and an exhaustive judging process, the Top Ten finalists for 2018/2019 had their movies screen at a special event at the Nickelodeon Theater in Columbia, SC, on May 11. After the screening and Q&A, the winners were announced, each of whom received trophies and cash prizes. Check out the winners and all the finalists here.
Get more information about the S.C. YOUNG FILMMAKERS PROJECT here. Keep an eye out for updates and announcements on next year’s contest on our web page or by signing up for our email list.
CAREERS IN ACTING WITH ANNA CAMP & MONIQUE COLEMAN
Moderated by Joy Vandervort-Cobb
Homegrown South Carolina actors Anna Camp (Pitch Perfect, True Blood) and Monique Coleman (High School Musical) participated in a professional development workshop on the craft and career of acting. The enthusiastic audience, made up of actors production professionals of various experience levels, were rapt by the words of wisdom from the two pros, delving into how to handle the reality of the highly-competitive business with grace and intelligence. The interactive seminar and discussion was moderated by Joy Vandervort-Cobb and took place on Dec. 14 at Trident Technical College in North Charleston. he event will be an interactive discussion on the craft of acting, growing up in South Carolina and pursuing art, and ultimately making a career in Hollywood.
CANON EXPLORER OF LIGHT WITH LINDSAY ADLER
”Shoot what you love, and show the world this passion.”
Fashion photographer Lindsay Adler presented the keynote speech at the Southeastern Film and Photo Conference on February 22 at Trident Technical College. With her trademark energy and enthusiastic teaching style, she was excited to share her passion and knowledge with South Carolina filmmakers, photographers, and students.
Lindsey has risen to the top of her industry as both a photographer and educator. Based in New York City, her fashion editorials have appeared in numerous fashion and photography publications, including Marie Claire, Elle Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, and dozens more.
As a photographic educator, she is one of the most sought after speakers internationally, teaching on the industry’s largest platforms and most prestigious events and named one of the top 10 fashion photographers in the world. Lindsay has also worked with some of the top brands in the photographic and related industries, such as Canon, Adobe, Grey, Edelman, A&E, NBC, and Microsoft.
A clean, bold and graphic style has become the hallmark of her work, whether shooting advertising campaigns, designer look books, jewelry, fashion editorials, or professional athletes. Lindsay is renowned for her creativity and collaborating with designers and stylists in order to create fresh looks.
SCRIPT & STORY FOR FILM & VIDEO with THE STORY PIRATES
The South Carolina Film Commission, Trident Technical College, and Indie Grants partnered with Story Pirates to present a seminar on SCRIPT & STORY IN FILM AND VIDEO, geared especially for South Carolina teachers, other K-12 educators, and writers.
The workshop was free and open to the public, and took place Nov. 8 at The Idea Lab in SCETV Studios in Columbia. Instructors from Story Pirates will be presenting virtually.
STORY PIRATES is a youth-centric arts education group with a hit radio show, top 10 podcast, and sold-out live tours. Regarded internationally as experts at finding the heart of stories, they teach story writing to students and help them adapt their work for the stage, radio, and in this case, screen.
Story Pirates instructors used their unique brand of engaging instruction and interactivity to discuss the basics of story, examine how those elements are used in film and media arts, and explore genre and other elements. Participants will left the seminar with a better sense of how to develop and script media content as part of their curriculums, with fun and highly-effective techniques to take back to their classrooms. Helping South Carolina students and other young filmmakers learn how to best create quality short films and other media content in all subjects.
The workshop ws also perfect preparation for the South Carolina Young Filmmakers Project. The 2018-2019 high school filmmaking contest is now open, with entries due March 8, 2019. The Top Ten entries will screen at a special program at the Nickelodeon Theater in Columbia, and the winners will receive cash prizes and trophies.
To cap off the day, South Carolina professional screenwriters provided instruction on the mechanics of screenwriting, including standard software such as Final Draft and Celtex.
MUSIC SYNCHRONIZATION FOR FILM, TV AND ADVERTISING
Music Supervisor and industry expert Leah Streetman (Universal Music Group’s Republic & Motown Records, MGM’s EPIX Network) lead a workshop on Music Synchronization for Film, TV and Advertising on Saturday, Oct. 6 at Trident Technical College’s North Charleston campus.
Geared toward emerging supervisors, filmmakers, agencies, content creators, editors, and especially South Carolina musicians of all stripes, Leah explored the question “What is Music Synchronization, Music Supervision, and Licensing?” The seminar was interactive and began with an overview of music synchronization, then examined supervising and licensing for film, TV, and commercials, with the business and creative perspectives. She also dived into music selection and placement, with activities related to pitching and the creative process of selection.
The workshop was free and open to the public.
About Leah Streetman:
Leah Streetman is a creative sync music & licensing expert for Film, TV, and Advertising, currently consulting for MGM’s premium channel, EPIX Network. She has overseen creative music placement for Universal Music Group’s Republic and Motown Records, working with artists like: Florence + The Machine, Lorde, Pearl Jam, The Weekend, Nicki Minaj, Drake, Ariana Grande, Avett Brothers, The Band Perry, James Bay, Of Monsters & Men, The Rolling Stones, Prince, and Amy Winehouse.
She has secured creative music placements with partners like: HBO, Showtime, NBC, ABC, CBS, CW, FOX, MTV, Warner Bros, Paramount, Sony Pictures, Universal Pictures, EA Sports, Ubisoft, ESPN, MLB, Coca-Cola, Dr. Pepper, Victoria’s Secret, Nike, Microsoft, Apple, and Sundance Film Festival. She started her career as a live music producer at New York’s renowned performing arts center, Symphony Space. Though currently residing in New York City, she grew up on the coast in Pawley’s Island, SC.
MEDIA ARTS EDUCATION TRAINING
Digital media is one of the world’s main communication tools, making Media Arts an essential part of a well-rounded education for students of all stripes. The workforce’s next generation needs an understanding of how to effectively convey a message through narrative and documentary video production, a skill-set that's becoming as necessary as writing and language arts.
With this in mind, professional film and commercial Producers and Directors led a one-day workshop with Trident Technical College film faculty focusing on these skills, geared especially for teachers, media specialists, and other educators. The seminar took place on March 23rd, 2018, at the Idea Lab at SCETV Studios in Columbia, SC.
The workshop examined the process of production from screenwriting to shooting to editing and sound design, using case studies and interactive content. Leaving educators and others across the state with a firm hold on how to most effectively and professionally create production projects, and better equipped to teach and present those aptitudes.
Trident Technical College instructor Mark Bradley goes through the basics of lighting and LED lighting equipment with educators from across the state.
P.A. BOOT CAMP
Indie Grants held a two-day P.A. Boot Camp on Nov. 11-12, at Trident Tech's North Charleston campus. Led by Jody Brockway, a veteran of the production industry, and a team of highly-experienced professional Production Assistants, the extensive workshop took an engaging, embedded approach. Immersing participants in a model production office, meeting, and process as they went through topics such as production paperwork, radio training, set protocol, how the A.D. team functions, and gear & supplies.
The seminar stressed interactivity, with games and challenges that demonstrated what a P.A. does and what they need to know. The team also discussed how best to prepare a resume and how to find PA positions, revealing the inner-workings of a production and its hiring practices. .
VFX & POST-PRODUCTION PIPELINE
VFX Producer and filmmaker VW Scheich at the Indie Grants' VFX & Post-Production Pipeline workshop.
Noted VFX producer and Writer/Director VW Scheich presented a fascinating seminar on Post-Production Workflow with Indie Grants, Oct. 21 at Trident Technical College in North Charleston.
VW began his career on-set working with various feature film directors, then learned the studio side of the movie business by working for Pete Corral, the Senior Vice-President of Production at Columbia Pictures. During his time at Columbia Pictures, VW coordinated sixteen films, including such blockbuster hits as Ghost Rider, Monster House, and Spiderman III.
After leaving Columbia Pictures, VW landed at The Third Floor, a CG pre-visualization studio. As Director of Project and Business Development at The Third Floor, VW utilized his contacts at the major studios to help obtain new projects, such as Iron Man II, Smurfs, Thor II, and Jack the Giant Slayer. While at Locktix VFX Studios VW was a producer on such films as Ted 2, Death Race: Anarchy, Wet Hot American Summer, Fargo, John Wick, Nightcrawler, and many more.
During his day-long workshop, VW delved into each component of the post-production process and how they work together, using notable case studies from his filmography to discuss how each step works and how they're all integrated together. This includes how much of post is dealt with in prep, including how detailed the typical Pre-Viz process is, the different approaches, and how they work as the blueprint for th entire filmmaking process.
The morning session focused on typical studio workflow and conventions, based on VW’s work with projects such as Spider-Man 3, House of Cards, and Voyage of Time: The IMAX Experience. And as an independent filmmaker himself, including directing the feature-film Interwoven (starring Academy Award winner Mo’Nique) and the award-winning, VFX-driven short film Wallenda, VW also understands the post-production challenges specific to independent film projects. He spent the afternoon discussing how independent filmmakers with lower-budgets can be most effective with their post-production process, including proprietary techniques and strategies developed by VW over the course of his career.
Video of the workshop will be available soon. Check back here for updates, or sign-up for our email list and like the SCFC facebook page to receive notifications.
NEW FILM TOOLS WITH STEVEN GLADSTONE
AT THE SOUTHEASTERN FILM & PHOTO CONFERENCE
Steven walks through some of the demonstrated gear with workshop attendees, during the hands-on portion of the seminar.
Indie Grants and the South Carolina Film Commission teamed up with American Society of Media Photographers to present a day of free production training workshops, during ASMP's annual Southeast Film & Photo Conference.
The morning seminar was on New Film Tools with Steven Gladstone, one of the industry's leading film equipment reviewers and bloggers. Steven discussed emerging tools for filmmakers and production professionals, including demonstrating the newest tools from manufacturers such as Redrock, Schactler, Zacuto, Ikan and Schneider Optics. There was also a hands-on component to the workshop, where participants got to try out the gear for themselves.
Canon Explorer of Light Jack Reznicki presented a lively keynote presentation in the afternoon, discussing photographic concepts and how he applied creative problem solving throughout his career, working on projects for companies such as Toys “R” Us, Tylenol, AstraZeneca, The Wall Street Journal, Hyatt, Kodak, Reader’s Digest, Crest, AT&T, Playtex, and several Time Magazine covers. Along with many other awards, Jack was very proud to twice receive the IPC (International Photographic Council) Leadership medal for “Excellence in Studio Photography” at the United Nations.
BECOMING A BETTER SCREENWRITER WITH PETER J. FOX
The fundamentals of good production always begin with the script. Where plot, character, and structure work together to form a captivating blueprint for the process. Building a story that, by the end, engages audiences, whether it be a feature-film, episodic, or short film. With this in mind, noted script consultant Peter J. Fox returned to Charleston on May 6, leading the BECOMING A BETTER SCREENWRITER seminar for writers, filmmakers, and other production professionals. View video webinar of the workshop here.
The workshop was free and open to the public. As a follow-up to his celebrated 2015 screenwriting workshop, Peter focused on what it takes to make a career as a scriptwriter, from creative and structural concepts to the realities of the industry. A section of the seminar also examined screenwriting for short films, an essential tool to gain footing in the industry. What makes a good short? What are the mistakes short filmmakers often make? How does the short film format change the approach to story structure, and how do they force a writer to rethink how to present a story? Indie Grants shorts were screened and discussed as case studies, with lively discussions resulting.
ABOUT PRESENTER PETER J. FOX:
Peter holds a Master of Fine Arts in Screenwriting from the American Film Institute. He has worked as a reader and story analyst at Paramount Pictures, Universal, Sony TriStar and MGM Pictures, and Concorde New Horizons. He makes regular appearances on Fox News CT as Film and Entertainment Analyst, and is the Editor of Film and Entertainment for VENU Magazine. Since 2001, he has conducted The Inside Track Workshops for Story and Cinematic Structure and has become one of the most sought after instructors of Screenwriting. Peter's methods have caught the attention of Hollywood executives and the literary world alike.
SCRIPT SUPERVISING WITH MARTHA PINSON (THE AVIATOR, SHUTTER ISLAND, HUGO)
Continuity. A filmmaker's most underestimated focal point. Likewise, we often find continuity to be the most noted attribute of any film.
Enter well-respected Script Supervisor Martha Pinson. Ms. Pinson led a Script Supervision Workshop for a rapt audience of production professionals and students on Jan. 28, presented by the South Carolina Film Commission and Trident Technical College. A long-time script consultant for Martin Scorsese and Sidney Lumet, Ms. Pinson imparted the structure of this vital position, the necessary diplomacy when working with the creative minds of a Director and Director of Photography and how this position keeps the dots connected, enabling a seamless transition into Post-Production.
Ms. Pinson shared her approaches to the craft, including proprietary approaches and methods she's developed over her 35-year career. She also presented behind-the-scene case studies involving shooting and script supervising visual effects, and led discussions on directing and acting as it relates to the role of script supervisor.
Ms. Pinson is one of the industry's most distinguished script supervisors, with credits that include The Aviator, Hugo, Wall Street, and Prince of the City. (See more about Martha Pinson here.)
CASTING SEMINAR WITH AVY KAUFMAN (NATIONAL TREASURE, LIFE OF PI, LINCOLN)
Having worked with celebrated directors such as Robert Redford, Steven Spielberg, and Ridley Scott, acclaimed Casting Director Avy Kaufman set aside an evening to speak with South Carolina production professionals and students at the South Carolina Film Commission's CASTING SEMINAR WITH AVY KAUFMAN. The workshop was an intimate, two-hour Q&A at the Charleston Music Hall, and was part of the 2016 Charleston International Film Festival.
With over 25 years of experience Ms. Kaufman has established herself as one of the industry's most distinguished casting directors, with credits that include Lincoln, Promotheus, Life of Pi, The Bourne Ultimatum, Garden State, and The Sixth Sense. At the seminar she discussed her approach, shared invaluable career insights and her love for this ever-changing industry, regaling the audience with her wit and candor. An incredible opportunity for all actors, directors, writers, and more to learn from one of the industry's foremost leaders.
Learn more about Avy Kaufman here.
SOUTHEASTERN FILM & PHOTO CONFERENCE WITH GREGORY HEISLER
The South Carolina Film Commission and American Society of Media Photographers teamed up to host the Southeastern Film & Photo Conference. The first of its kind event took place Aug. 26-27 at Furman University in Greenville.
Highlights included a VIDEO EDITING SEMINAR with Adobe-certified instructor Clay Asbury and the Keynote Presentation by Gregory Heisler. Renowned for his technical mastery and thoughtful responsiveness over a career spanning more than 35 years, Heisler has photographed luminaries ranging from Bill Clinton to Bruce Springsteen, and is perhaps best known for his more than 70 cover portraits for Time Magazine. His iconic portraits and innovative visual essays have graced the covers and pages of publications such as Life, Esquire, Fortune, GQ, Sports Illustrated, ESPN, and The New York Times Magazine. He has also photographed major advertising campaigns for such clients as American Express, Benson & Hedges, Dewar's, Ford, Guinness, Marlboro, Merrill Lynch, Nike, Pfizer, Reebok, and United Technologies.
South Carolina film and photo professionals, and students from across the state, got the chance to hear the stories behind his incredible images and learn from his breadth of experience.
PRODUCTION LEGAL SEMINAR WITH DAVID PIERCE
In the filmmaking industry, legal questions frequently arise during each phase of production. Laws are in place to protect the production, determine who owns the rights to the project, where and how you can shoot at a location, and even who may appear in your film. It can be overwhelming and it's helpful to know where to start.
The aid in this element of production, the South Carolina Film Commission brought in entertainment attorney David Albert Pierce for a PRODUCTION LEGAL SEMINAR, a one-day discussion on important aspects of filmmaking law. The event took place at Tapp's Art Center in Columbia, SC.
David Albert Pierce is Managing Member of Pierce Law Group LLP, a boutique entertainment law firm specializing in Film, TV & new media finance, production counsel services, entity formation, talent representation, and counseling creative entrepreneurs. PLG has provided production counsel services on The Academy Award winning film The Artist, as well as, providing legal services on all of the Hunger Games franchise, Fox Studio's Peanuts Movie, and over 100 independent films. He has also been involved in over 100 reality TV deals and has worked for such acclaimed production companies as multi-Emmy Award winners Harpo Productions and Profiles Television Productions (producers of The Amazing Race). In 2014, David helped craft a sophisticated financing plan for a primary investor of the Keanu Reeves' film entitled John Wick, and he works closely with independent film lenders and studios.
THE CHUBBUCK TECHNIQUE WITH FRANTZ TURNER OF THE IVANA CHUBBUCK STUDIO
The Power of Acting. Skill and technique that elevates performance to another level. In authenticity, skill and professionalism. A fundamental component of the filmmaking process, and one that takes massive amounts of work to achieve. South Carolina actors and filmmakers had the unique chance to experience this firsthand, at an ACTING WORKSHOP with Frantz Turner from the Ivana Chubbuck Studio, one of the most respected acting schools on the planet.
Ivana Chubbuck Studio has worked with Academy Award winners and nominees such as Halle Berry, Brad Pitt, Charlize Theron, James Franco, Terence Howard, Jake Gyllenhaal, Catherine Keener, and Jared Leto. (Click here to learn more about the Ivana Chubbuck Studio.) Sixteen South Carolina Actors were selected to undergo a scene study process as part of the workshop, working with Frantz intimately as they broke down the scene and performance during the workshop. A first-hand look at the process of crafting a performance from one of the world's leading instructors.
LIFT CERTIFCATION WORKSHOP
The South Carolina Film Commission and Trident Technical College held a one-day LIFT CERTIFICATION workshops in Charleston in September. With a focus on Condors and Scissor-lifts, the training was free and open to all South Carolina production crew. At the successful completion of the seminar, all attendees were issued a 3-yr Certified Operator's License.
Training was conducted by United Rentals through IVES Training at their facility in Charleston, SC. The morning session consisted of classroom safety training, ending with a written safety test. The afternoon was hands-on operation training with the two pieces of equipment.
AN AFTERNOON WITH RUSSELL CARPENTER, ASC
With a prolific career that includes an Academy Award for Titanic, cinematographer Russell Carpenter, ASC sets aside an afternoon to speak with South Carolina production professionals and students at the South Carolina Film Commission's AN AFTERNOON WITH RUSSELL CARPENTER: A CINEMATOGRAPHY SEMINAR.
Russell has over 30 years of experience as one of the industry's most talented cinematographers, including an Academy Award for Titanic and a credit list that include This Means War, 21, Shallow Hal, Charlie's Angels, Ant-Man and XXX: Return of Xander Cage.
PRODUCTION MAKE-UP SEMINAR WITH KELCEY FRY
After an exciting and inspiring engagement last year, Emmy-award winning Make-Up Artist and Instructor Kelcey Fry returned to South Carolina for the South Carolina Film Commission's PRODUCTION MAKE-UP WORKSHOP on Jan. 17, 2015 in Charleston.
With over 35 years of experience, Kelcey's credits include The Artist, Baggage Claim, Hitchcock, and Showtime's Masters of Sex. Currently on the jazz period feature Bolden, she has been personal make-up artist for legends such as Lily Tomlin, Helen Hunt, and Diane Keaton. But there's nothing Kelcey loves more than sharing her experience and know-how with other production professionals. (See more about Kelcey here.)
CAMERA ASSISTANT WORKSHOP WITH DOUG HART
In February of 2014, South Carolina lost a beloved and talented member of its film community in an on-set incident in Savannah, GA. A Columbia, SC, native and former Trident Tech film student, Sarah Jones loved being a camera assistant, and loved working in the production industry. This workshop was held in honor of Sarah.
Douglas C. Hart is an instructor and professional Camera Assistant who literally wrote the book on the profession -- The Camera Assistant: A Complete Professional Handbook. Last September, Doug lead a two-day CAMERA ASSISTANT, focusing on procedures of the camera department, including camera mechanics, lenses and filters, safety, camera department paperwork, on-set procedures, and more. .
With over 40 years of experience, Doug is one of the most respected names in the camera/cinematography industry, with credits that include What's Eating Gilbert Grape; Girl, Interrupted; and Presumed Innocent.
SCREENWRITING WORKSHOP WITH PETER FOX
It all starts with the script.
You can put the best technicians and actors in the world on a project, but if the screenplay - the story - isn't there, it will flounder. Few know this better than noted script evaluator and screenwriting instructor Peter J. Fox.
Peter has assessed and evaluated over 1000 scripts for top studios like Universal, TriStar, and Paramount. And has worked on projects such as Good Will Hunting, Air Force One, Mallrats and The Mask of Zorro. He knows what scripts will sell (and will make a good movie). And now Peter has instructed South Carolina writers on how to make that happen, at the South Carolina Film Commission's SCREENWRITING WORKSHOP.
As the creator and instructor of The Inside Track for Story and Cinematic Structure, Peter's methods have caught the attention of Hollywood executives and the literary world alike. Presented with passion and intensity, his seminars are not rehearsed or canned. Questions are encouraged and the opportunity to interact, share and explore the process of writing for film is a large component of his seminars.
The workshop focused on the fundamentals of strong themes, characters, and classic cinematic structure, as well as the Five Pillars of Cinematic Conflict, rewriting and editing, and how to get through the studio and agency gatekeepers. And the seminar helped attendees understand how to continue on their journey as screenwriters even after it ended.
NEW CAMERA TECHNOLOGIES WITH SNL DP ALEX BUONO
Presenter Alex Buono, DP for Saturday Night Live's film unit, has shot and produced films Green Street Hooligan (starring Elijah Wood) and the 2008 Sundance hit Bigger, Stronger, Faster. Throughout his career he has been on the forefront of emerging camera technologies, becoming one of the first to use Canon DSLR’s in professional production by incorporating the technology into SNL's title sequence, commercial parodies, and other digital shorts.
Alex spoke to S.C. students and professionals about the evolving camera options and formats, using samples from his career as a cinematographer to enlighten and inform seminar attendees on the format.
Alex attended the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts, majoring in film production and still photography. His early post-collegiate years were spent on the camera crews of studio films such as Twister and Armageddon, learning from ASC cinematographers and personal mentors, including Conrad Hall, Don Burgess, Dean Cundey, and John Schwartzman.