Following the success of the first edition in 2016, the Doha Film Institute (DFI) has opened applications for its Producers Lab 2017 scheduled from November 12 to 18.
The six-day programme aims to strengthen the creative, financial, and strategic skills of film producers based in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region.
It includes intensive training exercises, group tutorials, one-to-one meetings and masterclasses by industry experts.
Focusing on various aspects of producing a feature-length documentary and fiction film, the DFI Producers Lab also aims to strengthen co-productions in the Mena region by bringing together intimate groups of serious and like-minded producers.
Promoting networking opportunities along with skills-building, the programme will also offer insights on film marketing and distribution, with an in-depth focus on targeting the right audiences, understanding international markets and employing effective sales tactics.
“Our year-round programmes focus on diverse aspects of filmmaking – and one of the most crucial is the role of film producers who support the voice of the directors and have a greater responsibility in shaping an impressive project,” DFI chief executive Fatma al-Remaihi said.
“It is important that producers gain stronger insights on the filmmaking process, enabling them to develop even more creative ventures,” she said. “Through the Producers Lab, we aim to strengthen the skills of producers and in turn contribute to building a strong homegrown film industry for the Mena region.”
The DFI Producers Lab is designed for producers, investors, financiers, and directors as well as anyone interested in entering the filmmaking business in production.
Open to those with a project in development stage with a director/screenwriter associated to the project, the workshop aims to be a small and intimate event with a maximum of 10 participants, allowing room for attention to be given to each project.
The deadline for receiving applications and requirements is October 29 through DFi’s website: www.dohafilminstitute.com
The DFI Producers Lab will highlight the responsibility of the different types of producers – such as creative producer, co-producer, associate producer, line producer, and executive producer – as well as highlight the producer’s approach to script and development, structural analysis and creative production.
Many case studies will be presented throughout the sessions, enabling participants to address questions related to script development, executive production, finance and budget plans, marketing, pitching and distribution.
Industry standard technical documents and templates, such as the budget financing plan, distribution and sale strategy samples, and treatment examples, will be shared with participants and discussed in detail.

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