This year 110 aspiring filmmakers registered for Stage One of the Paerangi Project, after its launch in late June. The programme was created for those interested in developing a short film or web series who live outside the main centres, in remote regions, or those who are isolated from opportunities to learn about filmmaking. Registrations came from all over NZ; Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau, Bay of Plenty / Te Moana-a-Toi, Canterbury / Waitaha, Gisborne/ Te Tai Rāwhiti, Hawke’s Bay / Te Matau-a-Māui, Manawatū-Wanganui, Northland / Te Tai Tokerau, Otago / Ōtākou, Southland / Murihiku, Tasman / Te Tai-o-Aorere, Waikato, and Wellington / Te Whanga-nui-a-Tara, as well as from the Cook Islands, Fiji and Vanuatu.
In Stage One each participant was given access to a series of video tutorials delivered by experienced filmmakers. The tutorials lead the viewer through the process of developing a concept including writing, directing, producing, pitching and gave homework exercises.
After completion, participants who registered for Stage One were eligible to apply for Stage Two to receive six weeks of online mentorship. Seven teams have been selected to be matched with an experienced filmmaker who will guide them as they refine their short film project.
The projects and participants are:
(pictured left to right)
- Ai
Shun Lee (Writer/Director)
Deen Allen (Producer) - Kahit Ano Para Sa Inyo (Anything For You)
Rafa Yam (Writer/Director)
Mark John (Producer) - Pumpkin Eater
Jasper Marshall (Writer/Director)
Thomas Clarkson (Producer) - Ronan and Lexi
Gemma Ellis (Writer/Director) - Sleep Walking
Nicole Colmar (Writer/Director)
Abby Jones (Producer) - Son’s Return Home
Janine Sowerby (Writer)
Kim Georgine (Director)
Amanda Jenkins (Producer) - The Girl, The Lamb & The Man
Jacinta Compton (Writer)
Millie Cossou (Producer)
These participants will be invited to apply for Stage Three, where up to four teams will attend a three-day residential development lab in Auckland to progress their project even further. At the Lab they will receive tailored script feedback, directing mentoring, and producing advice from industry mentors. The Lab helps the participants move their projects closer to production and it is also an opportunity for them to meet like-minded people and industry practitioners.
Congratulations to all the participants!
The Paerangi Project came about thanks to the Screenrights Cultural Fund New Voices, to advance those who, for whatever reason, have found doors not readily open to them. New Zealand Film Commission matched the funding to support the development of aspiring filmmakers who have felt isolated from opportunities.
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