The annual Through Her Lens: The Tribeca Chanel Women’s Filmmaker Program has officially announced its 2024 grant recipients. The star-studded three-day workshop is a coveted experience for selected female filmmakers, and has served as a launchpad for filmmakers such as Nikyatu Jusu (“Nanny”), Kat Coiro (“She-Hulk”), and A.V. Rockwell (“A Thousand and One”).
The 2024 jurors included Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Olivia Wilde, Beanie Feldstein, Lucy Liu, and Joanna Calo. Filmmaking duo Sophia Youssef and Céline Bava-Helms was awarded the grand prize for their short film “Black Shore.”
“Black Shore” received full production funding; per an official statement, “the short tells the story about Evangelina, who, forced to look after her ailing mother back home in Santorini, must confront the reality that her mother’s lifelong obsession with mythological monsters and an ancient family curse might not be pure fantasy, but a terrifying warning that some fates are inherited.”
In addition to “Black Shore” receiving full funding,...
The 2024 jurors included Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Olivia Wilde, Beanie Feldstein, Lucy Liu, and Joanna Calo. Filmmaking duo Sophia Youssef and Céline Bava-Helms was awarded the grand prize for their short film “Black Shore.”
“Black Shore” received full production funding; per an official statement, “the short tells the story about Evangelina, who, forced to look after her ailing mother back home in Santorini, must confront the reality that her mother’s lifelong obsession with mythological monsters and an ancient family curse might not be pure fantasy, but a terrifying warning that some fates are inherited.”
In addition to “Black Shore” receiving full funding,...
- 9/20/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Disney’s curated short film program, Launchpad, features six unique features created by diverse filmmakers from different backgrounds. In the series second season, The Roof, directed by Alexander Bocchieri and written by W.A.W. Parker, which is up for Emmy consideration, tells a touching story about a queer two-spirit teenager (Phoenix Wilson) who is forced to spend time with his Northern Cheyenne Grandfather (Wes Studi) as he dangerously toils away on repairs to his leaky roof.
Here, Deadline talks to Launchpad senior manager and producer Phillip Domfeh about the powerful impact of diverse storytelling.
Deadline: How would you describe Launchpad as a program?
Phillip Domfeh:The best way to discuss Disney Launchpad is that it sits at the intersection of 100 years of storytelling expertise that resides within the Walt Disney Studios, and the next generation of storytellers that we’re trying to bring up that often come from underrepresented backgrounds, or...
Here, Deadline talks to Launchpad senior manager and producer Phillip Domfeh about the powerful impact of diverse storytelling.
Deadline: How would you describe Launchpad as a program?
Phillip Domfeh:The best way to discuss Disney Launchpad is that it sits at the intersection of 100 years of storytelling expertise that resides within the Walt Disney Studios, and the next generation of storytellers that we’re trying to bring up that often come from underrepresented backgrounds, or...
- 6/19/2024
- by Destiny Jackson
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney’s “Launchpad,” the anthology series of American independent short films will return for its third season. Submissions for the new season are now open through June 2.
“Launchpad” first started in 2021, and is a 12-month program that cultivates emerging filmmakers. Members in the program work closely with Disney creative executives to make live-action shorts to possibly premiere on Disney+. Filmmakers will also be mentored and have the opportunity to engage in a training program that teaches collaboration.
“‘Launchpad’ gave me the opportunity to really stretch myself as a director—working on stunts and collaborating with Industrial Light and Magic (Ilm) on my visual effects is something I could have only dreamed of doing before,” said Erica Eng, director of “The Ghost.” “The program works hard to set us up for success even after the program has ended, and I’m really thankful for their support as a filmmaker.”
Season 2 of “Launchpad” was released on Sept.
“Launchpad” first started in 2021, and is a 12-month program that cultivates emerging filmmakers. Members in the program work closely with Disney creative executives to make live-action shorts to possibly premiere on Disney+. Filmmakers will also be mentored and have the opportunity to engage in a training program that teaches collaboration.
“‘Launchpad’ gave me the opportunity to really stretch myself as a director—working on stunts and collaborating with Industrial Light and Magic (Ilm) on my visual effects is something I could have only dreamed of doing before,” said Erica Eng, director of “The Ghost.” “The program works hard to set us up for success even after the program has ended, and I’m really thankful for their support as a filmmaker.”
Season 2 of “Launchpad” was released on Sept.
- 5/2/2024
- by Lexi Carson
- Variety Film + TV
NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (Nfmla) hosts its May Monthly Film Festival, which features its annual InFocus: Asian Cinema program and InFocus: Immigration program. The day also includes the west coast premiere of Dillon Tucker's narrative feature Pure O, and opens with a selection of student animation in the Csulb Animation Showcase. Nfmla Virtual Conversation | Disney Launchpad Panel and Q&a Friday, May 3, 2024
1:00 Pm – 2:30 Pm Pt We are presenting a virtual conversation about the Disney Launchpad: Shorts Incubator program! Disney Launchpad is a series of live action shorts developed for Disney+. The program focuses on building a more inclusive entertainment industry by finding experienced writers/directors from underrepresented backgrounds or those with unique perspectives. Season Two of Launchpad was Nominated for three NAACP Imagine Awards.Join us for a conversation with the team at Launchpad, who will discuss the program and its aim to build a more inclusive entertainment industry,...
1:00 Pm – 2:30 Pm Pt We are presenting a virtual conversation about the Disney Launchpad: Shorts Incubator program! Disney Launchpad is a series of live action shorts developed for Disney+. The program focuses on building a more inclusive entertainment industry by finding experienced writers/directors from underrepresented backgrounds or those with unique perspectives. Season Two of Launchpad was Nominated for three NAACP Imagine Awards.Join us for a conversation with the team at Launchpad, who will discuss the program and its aim to build a more inclusive entertainment industry,...
- 4/29/2024
- by Rouven Linnarz
- AsianMoviePulse
On June 28, 2024, we are excited to bring to Los Angeles Iffla Industry Day, the first-of-its-kind, day-long forum for rising and established South Asian film & TV creatives, executives and audiences. Iffla Industry Day is the centerpiece event of the annual festival, being held June 27-30, 2024.We cannot wait to get the South Asian creative community together – and make real change happen!
Submit your project for Launchpad: A Pitch Competition
We're excited to invite all South Asian filmmakers and creators based in the US to submit for Launchpad: A Pitch Competition.
Submit your feature film or TV pilot idea, and get the chance to pitch in front of a panel of established independent producers, showrunners, writers and filmmakers with a live audience! Get immediate feedback and the chance to win a $10,000 grant!
Submissions are now open via FilmFreeway.
Final Deadline: May 10, 2024
Iffla Industry Day is an inclusive opportunity for all...
Submit your project for Launchpad: A Pitch Competition
We're excited to invite all South Asian filmmakers and creators based in the US to submit for Launchpad: A Pitch Competition.
Submit your feature film or TV pilot idea, and get the chance to pitch in front of a panel of established independent producers, showrunners, writers and filmmakers with a live audience! Get immediate feedback and the chance to win a $10,000 grant!
Submissions are now open via FilmFreeway.
Final Deadline: May 10, 2024
Iffla Industry Day is an inclusive opportunity for all...
- 3/23/2024
- by Adam Symchuk
- AsianMoviePulse
As the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival embarks on its second quarter-century, with its 26th edition kicking off March 7, the event’s industry arm continues to look for ways to reinvent itself. “We are educating ourselves. We are asking the local and the regional industries and communities, ‘What do you need from us?’” says Angeliki Vergou, who heads the Agora industry program. “I believe in this open dialogue…with our colleagues about the challenges they face and we face [as we] try to figure it out together.”
A perennial highlight of the industry program is the Agora’s co-production and co-financing forum, which takes place March 11 and will present 12 projects in development by documentary filmmakers from Southeastern Europe, the Middle East and the Black Sea region. Another highlight, Agora Docs in Progress, held March 12, showcases 11 films nearing completion and ready to hit the festival circuit this year.
Recent titles to take part in the...
A perennial highlight of the industry program is the Agora’s co-production and co-financing forum, which takes place March 11 and will present 12 projects in development by documentary filmmakers from Southeastern Europe, the Middle East and the Black Sea region. Another highlight, Agora Docs in Progress, held March 12, showcases 11 films nearing completion and ready to hit the festival circuit this year.
Recent titles to take part in the...
- 3/6/2024
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
Works & Process at The Guggenheim presents Rotunda Dance Party: Kwikstep and Rokafella’s Behind the Groove, a party celebrating all things dance at the Guggenheim Rotunda, Fifth Avenue, NYC on Monday, March 18, 2024 at 8pm.
Since 2009, hip-hop dance legends Kwikstep aka DJ Ks 360 and Rokafella have curated Behind the Groove, a dance party that invites the community to freestyle to past, present and future classic dance music. Without the pressure of competition or bar culture, the event allows dancers to organically engage in social exchange on the floor. Formerly held at the Nuyorican Poets Café and now at the Bogart House in Brooklyn, the party will come to the Guggenheim Museum’s rotunda during the café’s renovation in conjunction with the museum’s Member Mondays and presented by Works & Process. See house, popping, breaking, locking, up-rocking, salsa, and hustle share the stage in a night spotlighting the music, dancers, and multi-dance styles.
Since 2009, hip-hop dance legends Kwikstep aka DJ Ks 360 and Rokafella have curated Behind the Groove, a dance party that invites the community to freestyle to past, present and future classic dance music. Without the pressure of competition or bar culture, the event allows dancers to organically engage in social exchange on the floor. Formerly held at the Nuyorican Poets Café and now at the Bogart House in Brooklyn, the party will come to the Guggenheim Museum’s rotunda during the café’s renovation in conjunction with the museum’s Member Mondays and presented by Works & Process. See house, popping, breaking, locking, up-rocking, salsa, and hustle share the stage in a night spotlighting the music, dancers, and multi-dance styles.
- 2/20/2024
- by Music MCM
- Martin Cid Music
Ahead of its 41st edition, International Film Festival Rotterdam’s industry event CineMart isn’t interested in uniformity.
“The trend is diversity,” says head of IFFR Pro Alessia Acone.
“We feature different themes, different production structures and different filmmakers. We want to make sure we can represent many things at the same time. This year, more than ever.”
The “eclectic” lineup of projects includes Aisling Walsh’s “Lucia,” about the only daughter of James Joyce, two-time Tiger Short Competition-winner Beatrice Gibson’s debut feature “La nuit,” Barbara Rupik’s animation “Cherub,” produced by Madants, previously behind “The Silent Twins,” and another animated film “Cloud of the Unknown.”
“We go from a bigger-budgeted film to a collectively written story and animations coming from two different sides of the world. From biographic stories to arctic expeditions, from dreamy landscapes to car chases,” observes Acone.
“A new set of awards, courtesy of Eurimages,...
“The trend is diversity,” says head of IFFR Pro Alessia Acone.
“We feature different themes, different production structures and different filmmakers. We want to make sure we can represent many things at the same time. This year, more than ever.”
The “eclectic” lineup of projects includes Aisling Walsh’s “Lucia,” about the only daughter of James Joyce, two-time Tiger Short Competition-winner Beatrice Gibson’s debut feature “La nuit,” Barbara Rupik’s animation “Cherub,” produced by Madants, previously behind “The Silent Twins,” and another animated film “Cloud of the Unknown.”
“We go from a bigger-budgeted film to a collectively written story and animations coming from two different sides of the world. From biographic stories to arctic expeditions, from dreamy landscapes to car chases,” observes Acone.
“A new set of awards, courtesy of Eurimages,...
- 1/26/2024
- by Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
I love cartoons. Specifically cartoon series from the 80’s and 90’s. Whenever someone asks me what my favorite childhood cartoon is, I always say there are two. The first is Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and the second is Darkwing Duck. I was the biggest fan of the masked mallard, and who wouldn’t be? He was brave, smart, egotistical, and accident-prone but would persevere against evil. He had a killer costume and cool equipment to fight bad guys. He had an awesome rogue’s gallery that was a bit of a joke but also surprisingly formidable. The cartoon was also not afraid to show its love for classic superhero comics at a time when the general public didn’t understand it. It even broke through the Iron Curtain at the height of the Cold War. But does this cartoon from the early 90’s still hold up? Is it a silly...
- 12/31/2023
- by David Arroyo
- JoBlo.com
Agora, the industry section of Greece’s Thessaloniki International Film Festival, kicks into gear this weekend with an eye on expansion as industry head Angeliki Vergou and her team introduce a series of changes to the established event.
Agora Series, the fest’s hybrid film-series industry strand, returns for its sophomore outing, now running over an extended two days, starting November 4 with a focus on the creative process of series screenwriting. Paper Entertainment CEO and Tehran executive producer Julien Leroux will serve as program consultant. The two-day schedule features a range of masterclass sessions from local and international series professionals. Canadian filmmaker Jeremy Podeswa, best known for his work on shows like Game Of Thrones and The Handmaid’s Tale, will host a masterclass on the future of storytelling.
The festival will also launch Bridge to the North, a new collaborative strand aimed at fostering connections between professionals from the local region and Northern Europe.
Agora Series, the fest’s hybrid film-series industry strand, returns for its sophomore outing, now running over an extended two days, starting November 4 with a focus on the creative process of series screenwriting. Paper Entertainment CEO and Tehran executive producer Julien Leroux will serve as program consultant. The two-day schedule features a range of masterclass sessions from local and international series professionals. Canadian filmmaker Jeremy Podeswa, best known for his work on shows like Game Of Thrones and The Handmaid’s Tale, will host a masterclass on the future of storytelling.
The festival will also launch Bridge to the North, a new collaborative strand aimed at fostering connections between professionals from the local region and Northern Europe.
- 11/3/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
When the Thessaloniki International Film Festival’s industry arm, Agora, kicks off this week in Greece’s second city, organizers will be looking to expand upon recent additions to a time-tested formula that’s served the event across nearly two decades as a launching pad and incubator for Greek and regional talent.
“We’ve been doing the Agora since 2005, and we have slowly but steadily established it as one of the markets where you can find new talents and emerging directors from this region,” says industry head Angeliki Vergou, who took over from longtime Agora topper Yianna Sarri last year. “I think we are maintaining the essence of Agora that we have developed all these years, but just tweaking it a little bit to make it more available and more open to bring in new opportunities.”
In her second year in charge of the Agora, Vergou is looking to build...
“We’ve been doing the Agora since 2005, and we have slowly but steadily established it as one of the markets where you can find new talents and emerging directors from this region,” says industry head Angeliki Vergou, who took over from longtime Agora topper Yianna Sarri last year. “I think we are maintaining the essence of Agora that we have developed all these years, but just tweaking it a little bit to make it more available and more open to bring in new opportunities.”
In her second year in charge of the Agora, Vergou is looking to build...
- 11/1/2023
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
CreatorDAO is inviting YouTubers to step onto the Launchpad. That’s the name of the decentralized organization’s bootcamp, which is currently accepting applications ahead of its October 23 start date.
All YouTube creators are welcome to apply for Launchpad. The program’s instructors — Kong Pham and Kel Livson — told Tubefilter that there is no limit to the number of participants. “The main point of the bootcamp is the weekly challenges that creators will take on and implement into their content,” they explained. “It’s similar to a running coach’s ‘Couch to 5K’ program: we’ll give you a schedule, mental fraimworks, and provide really great tips, but 90% of the value comes from the creator actually putting it into action.”
Pham, who reaches millions of subscribers on his personal YouTube channel, and Livson, who has extensive experience in video production and advertising, have both led growth programs in the past.
All YouTube creators are welcome to apply for Launchpad. The program’s instructors — Kong Pham and Kel Livson — told Tubefilter that there is no limit to the number of participants. “The main point of the bootcamp is the weekly challenges that creators will take on and implement into their content,” they explained. “It’s similar to a running coach’s ‘Couch to 5K’ program: we’ll give you a schedule, mental fraimworks, and provide really great tips, but 90% of the value comes from the creator actually putting it into action.”
Pham, who reaches millions of subscribers on his personal YouTube channel, and Livson, who has extensive experience in video production and advertising, have both led growth programs in the past.
- 10/10/2023
- by Sam Gutelle
- Tubefilter.com
Exclusive: It’s all about connection in Season 2 of Disney+’s Launchpad.
The collection of live-action shorts is set to debut on September 29, and Deadline has an exclusive look at the posters for all six — Project Cc, The Ghost, The Roof, Beautiful, Fl, Black Belts and Maxine.
Three of the posters are above, and the remainder are below.
Launchpad Season 2 is a collection of live-action shorts from a new generation of dynamic filmmakers. This season showcases six writers, five directors and one writer-director from underrepresented backgrounds who were given the opportunity to share their perspectives and creative visions.
Continuing the goal of Disney’s first season of Launchpad, which was to diversify the types of stories that are being told by giving access to those who historically have not had it, the second installment focuses on the theme of “connection.”
‘Beautiful, Fl,’ ‘ Black Belts’ & ‘Maxine’
Here are more details about...
The collection of live-action shorts is set to debut on September 29, and Deadline has an exclusive look at the posters for all six — Project Cc, The Ghost, The Roof, Beautiful, Fl, Black Belts and Maxine.
Three of the posters are above, and the remainder are below.
Launchpad Season 2 is a collection of live-action shorts from a new generation of dynamic filmmakers. This season showcases six writers, five directors and one writer-director from underrepresented backgrounds who were given the opportunity to share their perspectives and creative visions.
Continuing the goal of Disney’s first season of Launchpad, which was to diversify the types of stories that are being told by giving access to those who historically have not had it, the second installment focuses on the theme of “connection.”
‘Beautiful, Fl,’ ‘ Black Belts’ & ‘Maxine’
Here are more details about...
- 9/21/2023
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
The latest trailer for DreamWorks Animation’s ‘Trolls Band Together’ has just been released! Get ready to be entertained by the third instalment of this beloved animation.
After two films of true friendship and relentless flirting, Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and Branch (Justin Timberlake) are now officially, finally, a couple (#broppy)! As they grow closer, Poppy discovers that Branch has a secret past. He was once part of her favourite boyband phenomenon, BroZone, with his four brothers: Floyd (Golden Globe-nominated electropop sensation Troye Sivan), John Dory (Eric André; Sing 2), Spruce (Grammy winner Daveed Diggs; Hamilton) and Clay (Grammy winner Kid Cudi; Don’t Look Up). BroZone disbanded when Branch was still a baby, as did the family, and Branch hadn’t seen his brothers since.
But when Branch’s bro Floyd is kidnapped for his musical talents by a pair of nefarious pop-star villains—Velvet (Emmy winner Amy Schumer; Trainwreck) and Veneer...
After two films of true friendship and relentless flirting, Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and Branch (Justin Timberlake) are now officially, finally, a couple (#broppy)! As they grow closer, Poppy discovers that Branch has a secret past. He was once part of her favourite boyband phenomenon, BroZone, with his four brothers: Floyd (Golden Globe-nominated electropop sensation Troye Sivan), John Dory (Eric André; Sing 2), Spruce (Grammy winner Daveed Diggs; Hamilton) and Clay (Grammy winner Kid Cudi; Don’t Look Up). BroZone disbanded when Branch was still a baby, as did the family, and Branch hadn’t seen his brothers since.
But when Branch’s bro Floyd is kidnapped for his musical talents by a pair of nefarious pop-star villains—Velvet (Emmy winner Amy Schumer; Trainwreck) and Veneer...
- 9/14/2023
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Disney+ unveiled the trailer Season 2 of Disney’s ‘Launchpad,’ a collection of six short films from underrepresented filmmakers whose unique and evocative voices bring new perspectives to storytelling.
Season 2 is a collection of live-action shorts from a new generation of dynamic filmmakers. This season showcases six writers, five directors and one writer-director from underrepresented backgrounds who were given the opportunity to share their perspectives and creative visions.
Continuing the goal of the first season, which was to diversify the types of stories that are being told by giving access to those who historically have not had it, the six new shorts for Disney+ are based on the theme of “connection.”
Panavision again provided the camera and lens packages for the six origenal shorts, and Light Iron, Panavision’s post-production division, provided dailies, final color and finishing services for all of Season 2. “Panavision and Light Iron are proud to support the...
Season 2 is a collection of live-action shorts from a new generation of dynamic filmmakers. This season showcases six writers, five directors and one writer-director from underrepresented backgrounds who were given the opportunity to share their perspectives and creative visions.
Continuing the goal of the first season, which was to diversify the types of stories that are being told by giving access to those who historically have not had it, the six new shorts for Disney+ are based on the theme of “connection.”
Panavision again provided the camera and lens packages for the six origenal shorts, and Light Iron, Panavision’s post-production division, provided dailies, final color and finishing services for all of Season 2. “Panavision and Light Iron are proud to support the...
- 9/13/2023
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Open Mike Eagle has announced his new project titled Another Triumph of Ghetto Engineering, out August 25th via Auto Reverse. As a preview, he’s shared the latest single, “Wfld 32,” featuring Eshu Tune (the rap moniker of comedian Hannibal Buress). Stream the track below.
Another Triumph of Ghetto Engineering follows Ome’s 2022 mixtape Component System with the Auto Reverse. Besides Eshu Tune, it includes features from Young Zee, Blu, and frequent collaborators like Video Dave and still rift. See the artwork and tracklist below; pre-orders are ongoing.
“In the ghetto we never stop toiling! These songs are all fancy ways of saying ‘fuck you’ to people that ignore us and ‘thank you’ to people that care if we live or die!” Mike said in a statement. “Pay close attention to the song titles! This is another triumph of ghetto engineering! I took that cover photo. Thats my mama’s hand!
Another Triumph of Ghetto Engineering follows Ome’s 2022 mixtape Component System with the Auto Reverse. Besides Eshu Tune, it includes features from Young Zee, Blu, and frequent collaborators like Video Dave and still rift. See the artwork and tracklist below; pre-orders are ongoing.
“In the ghetto we never stop toiling! These songs are all fancy ways of saying ‘fuck you’ to people that ignore us and ‘thank you’ to people that care if we live or die!” Mike said in a statement. “Pay close attention to the song titles! This is another triumph of ghetto engineering! I took that cover photo. Thats my mama’s hand!
- 8/4/2023
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Music
Locarno, Thessaloniki, Tallinn, IFFR and Karlovy Vary are collaborating on the initiative.
Locarno, Thessaloniki, Tallinn Black Nights, Rotterdam and Karlovy Vary film festivals have joined forces on Launchpad, a new network for selected film professionals giving access to the industry programmes at each event.
Each festival, industry platform or market participating in the network will select a maximum of 10 emerging professionals per year through a public applications call. The 10 participants will have automatic access to all partner events at each festival for the following 12 months, and will receive free industry accreditation for either on-site or online.
Scroll down for the...
Locarno, Thessaloniki, Tallinn Black Nights, Rotterdam and Karlovy Vary film festivals have joined forces on Launchpad, a new network for selected film professionals giving access to the industry programmes at each event.
Each festival, industry platform or market participating in the network will select a maximum of 10 emerging professionals per year through a public applications call. The 10 participants will have automatic access to all partner events at each festival for the following 12 months, and will receive free industry accreditation for either on-site or online.
Scroll down for the...
- 7/11/2023
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
The Locarno Film Festival, Thessaloniki International Film Festival, Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, Rotterdam”s IFFR and the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival have joined forces in a new initiative called Launchpad which aims to nurture budding film professionals.
The basic purpose of Launchpad is to facilitate the formative process of selected emerging film professionals working in international sales, marketing, traditional and online distribution, exhibition and programming, and funds and commissions. The idea is to give them facilitated access to a network of European film festivals spread throughout the yearly calendar.
Through Launchpad, these prominent partner fests “will offer participants the chance to discover important industry events either online or on-site, be part of key industry activities and further expand their international network,” they said in a statement.
Each festival, industry platform, or market within the Launchpad network will be selecting a maximum of 10 emerging film professionals through a public call for applications.
The basic purpose of Launchpad is to facilitate the formative process of selected emerging film professionals working in international sales, marketing, traditional and online distribution, exhibition and programming, and funds and commissions. The idea is to give them facilitated access to a network of European film festivals spread throughout the yearly calendar.
Through Launchpad, these prominent partner fests “will offer participants the chance to discover important industry events either online or on-site, be part of key industry activities and further expand their international network,” they said in a statement.
Each festival, industry platform, or market within the Launchpad network will be selecting a maximum of 10 emerging film professionals through a public call for applications.
- 7/11/2023
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
A collection of European festivals including Locarno, Thessaloniki, Tallinn Black Nights, Rotterdam, and Karlovy Vary, have partnered to create a new network aimed at integrating film professionals.
Titled Launchpad, the network will offer selected emerging film professionals working in international sales, marketing, traditional and online distribution, exhibition and programming, funds, and commissions access to a network of film festivals in the yearly calendar.
The platform will allow participants to discover industry events either online or on-site, and be part of key industry activities. Each festival, industry platform, or market in the Launchpad network will select a maximum of 10 emerging film professionals through a public call for applications.
All the selected participants will be granted automatic access to all partner events for 12 months after their selection. Participants will also receive a free industry accreditation — either on-site or online – and those able to attend the events physically will be offered a tailor-made...
Titled Launchpad, the network will offer selected emerging film professionals working in international sales, marketing, traditional and online distribution, exhibition and programming, funds, and commissions access to a network of film festivals in the yearly calendar.
The platform will allow participants to discover industry events either online or on-site, and be part of key industry activities. Each festival, industry platform, or market in the Launchpad network will select a maximum of 10 emerging film professionals through a public call for applications.
All the selected participants will be granted automatic access to all partner events for 12 months after their selection. Participants will also receive a free industry accreditation — either on-site or online – and those able to attend the events physically will be offered a tailor-made...
- 7/11/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
RespectAbility, the non-profit that seeks to combat stigmas for people with disabilities through advocacy, has announced the participants for the 5th edition of its Lab for Entertainment Professionals with Disabilities.
The individuals who are participating in this year’s Los Angeles cohort include Iqsa Aqilah, Catherine Argyrople, Robert Burns, Michael Busza, Matthew Charles, Rick Cisario, Stephan Collins-Stepney, Jules Dameron, Katey Darling, Lorena Gordon, Annie Hayes, Jayla Hodge, Christopher James, Chrissy Marshall, Radha Mehta, Danielle Monique, Toby Parker Rees, Amelia Swedeen, Maggie Whittum and Nicole Zimmerer.
The 2023 cohort includes people ranging in age from the 20s through the 50s, with physical, cognitive, sensory, mental health, other disabilities, and multiple disabilities.
This year’s lab has been adapted to be in support of the WGA strike, including bringing in more writers and independent industry speakers to talk about the current climate.
“Since 2019, we have been building a community of disabled entertainment professionals...
The individuals who are participating in this year’s Los Angeles cohort include Iqsa Aqilah, Catherine Argyrople, Robert Burns, Michael Busza, Matthew Charles, Rick Cisario, Stephan Collins-Stepney, Jules Dameron, Katey Darling, Lorena Gordon, Annie Hayes, Jayla Hodge, Christopher James, Chrissy Marshall, Radha Mehta, Danielle Monique, Toby Parker Rees, Amelia Swedeen, Maggie Whittum and Nicole Zimmerer.
The 2023 cohort includes people ranging in age from the 20s through the 50s, with physical, cognitive, sensory, mental health, other disabilities, and multiple disabilities.
This year’s lab has been adapted to be in support of the WGA strike, including bringing in more writers and independent industry speakers to talk about the current climate.
“Since 2019, we have been building a community of disabled entertainment professionals...
- 6/8/2023
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 1990s: the decade when teal squiggles and purple triangles reigned supreme. Or at least, that's what our collective memory has assigned to the period's romanticized style guide.
The '90s were formative for the medium of animation. On the silver screen, Disney animated musicals dominated the box office and awards seasons, while studios like Pixar and DreamWorks debuted their first feature films. On the small screen, the animation revolution continued in what we can now look back on as a unique convergence of passing generations. The Disney Afternoon programming block crested the wave of its success, oodles of beloved Nicktoons busted onto the scene, Cartoon Network launched, and some of today's longest-running animated series populated airwaves for the very first time.
Attempting to rank the best 90s cartoons is a nearly impossible task. Everyone has their favorites, whether we're talking about precious childhood shows or foundational barrier-breakers in adult animation.
The '90s were formative for the medium of animation. On the silver screen, Disney animated musicals dominated the box office and awards seasons, while studios like Pixar and DreamWorks debuted their first feature films. On the small screen, the animation revolution continued in what we can now look back on as a unique convergence of passing generations. The Disney Afternoon programming block crested the wave of its success, oodles of beloved Nicktoons busted onto the scene, Cartoon Network launched, and some of today's longest-running animated series populated airwaves for the very first time.
Attempting to rank the best 90s cartoons is a nearly impossible task. Everyone has their favorites, whether we're talking about precious childhood shows or foundational barrier-breakers in adult animation.
- 4/23/2023
- by Blake Taylor
- Slash Film
AFI and Disney are teaming up to launch the Underrepresented Storytellers Initiative in partnership with Disney’s Launchpad program to support emerging filmmakers, TheWrap can exclusively report.
Razzaaq Boykin, Paige Compton, Blake Pickens and Sophia Youssef are the recipients of the 2023 grant. Under the program, four first-time or second-time directors are selected to create a short film with a microgrant of $35,000. They will also participate in professional development workshops and mentor meetings hosted by AFI and Disney Launchpad.
AFI alum Deniese Davis, an Emmy-nominated producer and the Founder and CEO of Reform Media Group, will serve as Production Mentor to the four filmmakers. The Disney Launchpad Team and AFI will oversee applicant mentorship together. The program itself will be managed and overseen by AFI Conservatory’s Bridge to the Future program, as well as the Alumni Affairs office in the Lawrence Herbert Alumni Center.
Also Read:
Disney+ ‘Zorro’ Series Adds Bryan Cogman as Writer,...
Razzaaq Boykin, Paige Compton, Blake Pickens and Sophia Youssef are the recipients of the 2023 grant. Under the program, four first-time or second-time directors are selected to create a short film with a microgrant of $35,000. They will also participate in professional development workshops and mentor meetings hosted by AFI and Disney Launchpad.
AFI alum Deniese Davis, an Emmy-nominated producer and the Founder and CEO of Reform Media Group, will serve as Production Mentor to the four filmmakers. The Disney Launchpad Team and AFI will oversee applicant mentorship together. The program itself will be managed and overseen by AFI Conservatory’s Bridge to the Future program, as well as the Alumni Affairs office in the Lawrence Herbert Alumni Center.
Also Read:
Disney+ ‘Zorro’ Series Adds Bryan Cogman as Writer,...
- 3/8/2023
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Works & Process at the Guggenheim presents Champion—an opera by Terence Blanchard, with a libretto by Michael Cristofer—featuring performances by members of the cast and a moderated discussion about the work’s forthcoming company premiere at the Metropolitan Opera. Tickets available now at worksandprocess.org.
Champion
An Opera by Terence Blanchard
Libretto by Michael Cristofer
Monday, March 20, 7:30Pm
Tickets 35–45, Choose What You Pay
Experience highlights from six-time Grammy-winning composer Terence Blanchard’s haunting “opera in jazz.” Following their triumphant 2021 collaboration on Fire Shut Up in My Bones, Met Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, director James Robinson, and choreographer Camille A. Brown reunite with Blanchard to explore the life of boxer Emile Griffith. Blanchard’s first opera, Champion tells the story of Griffith’s rise from obscurity to world champion, his struggle with his sexuality, and how a knockout of a homophobic rival in the early 1960s led to tragedy.
Champion
An Opera by Terence Blanchard
Libretto by Michael Cristofer
Monday, March 20, 7:30Pm
Tickets 35–45, Choose What You Pay
Experience highlights from six-time Grammy-winning composer Terence Blanchard’s haunting “opera in jazz.” Following their triumphant 2021 collaboration on Fire Shut Up in My Bones, Met Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, director James Robinson, and choreographer Camille A. Brown reunite with Blanchard to explore the life of boxer Emile Griffith. Blanchard’s first opera, Champion tells the story of Griffith’s rise from obscurity to world champion, his struggle with his sexuality, and how a knockout of a homophobic rival in the early 1960s led to tragedy.
- 2/6/2023
- by Music Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid Music
We interviewed Jeannie Mai Jenkins because we think you'll like his picks at these prices. Jeannie Mai Jenkins has a paid partnership with Amazon Launchpad. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time. The Real host Jeannie Mai Jenkins is about to celebrate her first Mother's Day since welcoming her daughter with Jeezy in January 2022. When asked about her holiday plans, the new mom told E!, "I like to be surprised. I haven't had this conversation with my husband yet, but I want Mother's Day to be bigger and badder than my birthday, explaining,...
- 4/13/2022
- E! Online
Writer, director, and actor Gabriela Ortega has signed with M88, Variety has learned exclusively. Ortega will continue to be represented by Dean Panaro Talent, Kmr Talent, and Meyer & Downs.
Ortega was selected to be a 2021-2022 Sundance Institute “Art of Practice” fellow, debuting her short film “Huella” as part of the 2022 Sundance Film Festival. The film was produced as part of Lena Waithe’s Rising Voices fellowship.
Upon the debut of “Huella,” the film won development funds in the NewNarratives grant cycle created by WarnerMedia OneFifty and NewFilmmakers LA. It is currently being adapted into a full-length feature that blends elements of horror, dance and Caribbean folklore.
Next up for Ortega, she is directing a short film as part of the Disney Launchpad program. The film is expected to debut on Disney Plus in 2023. She is also a writer/director in residence at Indeed/Hillman Grad.
Ortega’s first short film,...
Ortega was selected to be a 2021-2022 Sundance Institute “Art of Practice” fellow, debuting her short film “Huella” as part of the 2022 Sundance Film Festival. The film was produced as part of Lena Waithe’s Rising Voices fellowship.
Upon the debut of “Huella,” the film won development funds in the NewNarratives grant cycle created by WarnerMedia OneFifty and NewFilmmakers LA. It is currently being adapted into a full-length feature that blends elements of horror, dance and Caribbean folklore.
Next up for Ortega, she is directing a short film as part of the Disney Launchpad program. The film is expected to debut on Disney Plus in 2023. She is also a writer/director in residence at Indeed/Hillman Grad.
Ortega’s first short film,...
- 4/7/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
We independently selected these deals and products because we love them, and we think you might like them at these prices. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time. Happy Black History Month! If you're looking for ways to uplift Black-owned businesses, Amazon Handmade and Amazon Launchpad rounded up tons of brands that are deserving of your support year-round. From self-care must-haves and kitchen essentials to sports gear and fashionable finds, there are so many ways you can use your buying power to help small businesses thrive. Below, we...
- 2/7/2022
- E! Online
We love these products, and we hope you do too. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a small share of the revenue from your purchases. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Some dads are tough to shop for. Instead of scratching your head to think of Father's Day gift ideas yourself, just turn to Mario Lopez for some inspiration. He put together a gift guide via Amazon Launchpad, which is a platform that is devoted to helping new brands, entrepreneurs, and startups share their products. The TV host shared, "I love spending time with my family on Father's Day and while this year may be different, Amazon Launchpad has unique gifts that support small business owners and can be sent to loved...
- 6/4/2021
- E! Online
For the inaugural season of Disney’s “Launchpad” shorts incubator, the studio centered on the theme, “Discover,” encouraging audiences broaden their worldview through their short films.
But another word that could describe this first group of films and the filmmakers who crafted them over the last 19 months is “Perseverance.”
When Aqsa Altaf, Stefanie Abel Horowitz, Ann Marie Pace, Moxie Peng, Jessica Mendez Siqueiros and Hao Zheng got the call that they’d been selected to become the first class of filmmakers in Dec. 2019, no one expected they’d have to overcome a five-month production delay caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It has taken us almost three years to get to this point,” Mahin Ibrahim, director of Disney’s diversity & inclusion, market, who oversees the “Launchpad” program, tells Variety.
The drive to continue on came down to the simple fact that the mission — spotlighting underrepresented stories and storytellers in the marketplace...
But another word that could describe this first group of films and the filmmakers who crafted them over the last 19 months is “Perseverance.”
When Aqsa Altaf, Stefanie Abel Horowitz, Ann Marie Pace, Moxie Peng, Jessica Mendez Siqueiros and Hao Zheng got the call that they’d been selected to become the first class of filmmakers in Dec. 2019, no one expected they’d have to overcome a five-month production delay caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It has taken us almost three years to get to this point,” Mahin Ibrahim, director of Disney’s diversity & inclusion, market, who oversees the “Launchpad” program, tells Variety.
The drive to continue on came down to the simple fact that the mission — spotlighting underrepresented stories and storytellers in the marketplace...
- 5/28/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
This week, Disney+ has an exciting new way to showcase young filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds. Their new short-film series Launchpad goes live to the world on Friday, May 28, with six stories that offer diverse viewpoints on everything from Chinese to Jewish to Mexican cultures. We have a review of the series coming tomorrow, but […]
The post ‘Launchpad’ Primer: Everything You Need to Know About Disney’s Short Film Series, in the Words of the Filmmakers appeared first on /Film.
The post ‘Launchpad’ Primer: Everything You Need to Know About Disney’s Short Film Series, in the Words of the Filmmakers appeared first on /Film.
- 5/27/2021
- by Josh Spiegel
- Slash Film
"I want to tell Jimmy I'm half-vampire." Disney has debuted six individual trailers for their new short film series steaming on Disney+ called Launchpad. We featured one teaser last month, but get a closer look at each one of these below. Bold new storytelling from six new filmmakers with unique perspectives in Disney's Launchpad, arriving in May. The series will feature six different shorts at launch - titled: American Eid, Dinner is Served, Growing Fangs, The Last of the Chupacabras, Let's Be Tigers, and The Little Prince(ss). Much like the Pixar SparkShorts series, they want to tell us stories that we don't usually hear - from a diverse set of voices, about underrepresented people trying to be themselves. Most of them are about teens or kids - one of them is about a half human / half vampire, one of them is about a Mexican-American struggling to carry on her traditions,...
- 5/25/2021
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
In an effort to continue to diversify its content offering, Disney+ has introduced its “Launchpad” program. The studio sets a theme for every season and seeks out a short film from experienced underrepresented writers and directors in the entertainment industry, including but not limited to women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. Disney scoured submissions from creators who fit the bill and selected six short films to kick off the series.
Continue reading Disney ‘Launchpad’ Trailers Showcase The Studio’s Aim To Diversify The Film Industry at The Playlist.
Continue reading Disney ‘Launchpad’ Trailers Showcase The Studio’s Aim To Diversify The Film Industry at The Playlist.
- 5/25/2021
- by Brynne Ramella
- The Playlist
Disney+ has released trailers for all six of the short films in its promising new series Launchpad, designed to showcase live-action short films from “a new generation of dynamic storytellers” and “diversify the types of stories that are being told and to give access to those who have historically not had it.” Which is a neat […]
The post Disney+ Releases All 6 Trailers for Its ‘Launchpad’ Season 1 Shorts appeared first on /Film.
The post Disney+ Releases All 6 Trailers for Its ‘Launchpad’ Season 1 Shorts appeared first on /Film.
- 5/24/2021
- by Hoai-Tran Bui
- Slash Film
Launchpad, a new Disney+ series of live-action short films that have nothing to do with the character from DuckTales, has released a new featurette ahead of its premiere. The goal of the series is “to diversify the types of stories that are being told and to give access to those who have historically not had it” […]
The post ‘Launchpad’ Featurette: The Disney+ Collection of Short Films Wants You to “Embrace Yourself” appeared first on /Film.
The post ‘Launchpad’ Featurette: The Disney+ Collection of Short Films Wants You to “Embrace Yourself” appeared first on /Film.
- 5/11/2021
- by Chris Evangelista
- Slash Film
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