Applications invited for DFI programme

Following the success of the first edition in 2016, the Doha FilmInstitute (DFI) has opened applications for its Producers Lab 2017scheduled from November 12 to 18.The six-day programme aims to strengthen the creative, financial, andstrategic skills of film producers based in the Middle East and NorthAfrica (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 documentaryand fiction film, the DFI Producers Lab also aims to strengthenco-productions in the Mena region by bringing together intimate groupsof serious and like-minded producers.Promoting networking opportunities along with skills-building, theprogramme will also offer insights on film marketing and distribution,with an in-depth focus on targeting the right audiences, understandinginternational markets and employing effective sales tactics.“Our year-round programmes focus on diverse aspects of filmmaking – andone of the most crucial is the role of film producers who support thevoice of the directors and have a greater responsibility in shaping animpressive project,” DFI chief executive Fatma al-Remaihi said.“It is important that producers gain stronger insights on the filmmakingprocess, enabling them to develop even more creative ventures,” shesaid. “Through the Producers Lab, we aim to strengthen the skills ofproducers and in turn contribute to building a strong homegrown filmindustry for the Mena region.”The DFI Producers Lab is designed for producers, investors, financiers,and directors as well as anyone interested in entering the filmmakingbusiness in production.Open to those with a project in development stage with adirector/screenwriter associated to the project, the workshop aims to bea small and intimate event with a maximum of 10 participants, allowingroom for attention to be given to each project.The deadline for receiving applications and requirements is October 29 through DFi’s website: www.dohafilminstitute.comThe DFI Producers Lab will highlight the responsibility of the differenttypes of producers – such as creative producer, co-producer, associateproducer, line producer, and executive producer – as well as highlightthe producer’s approach to script and development, structural analysisand creative production.Many case studies will be presented throughout the sessions, enablingparticipants to address questions related to script development,executive production, finance and budget plans, marketing, pitching anddistribution.Industry standard technical documents and templates, such as the budgetfinancing plan, distribution and sale strategy samples, and treatmentexamples, will be shared with participants and discussed in detail.