Supporting Filmmakers in the age of Corona - What I am doing
I bloody love making films, it’s my favourite thing to do.
I posted this picture on social media (left) less than 3 weeks ago after the first filming block of my new film; <Untitled feature number 9> was complete. I was so excited by how we had got on that I got my nails did 💅
I was due to fly back to the US with my mini crew next week to film for a further two weeks. This was prior to the Europe to US travel ban and it seemed clear to me that cancelling the shoot was the responsible thing to do.
With my schedule now free I have opened my diary to offer some mentoring slots to documentary filmmakers. A chance to discuss an ongoing project or a dream film. No charge, no catch, just something positive in these uncertain times. After a call on social media, filmmakers have emailed me from around the world and I have drawn participants out of a hat. It’s unscientific but seemed the fairest approach.
I am just one individual and much as I’d like to, I can’t speak to everyone but perhaps you could offer your time to support other self-employed / creative people - I used Calendly to schedule some bookable slots and let people know what I was planning using my social media.
I have also collated some filmmaker resources below - If you have any recommendations of useful things to link here, do let me know. Contact “at” Jeaniefinlay.com
Look after yourselves and each other.
JFX 14 March 2020
EDIT I no longer have any places free. If I open up my schedule again I will post availability here.
Donate to The Trussell Trust
I gave up my time for free and was happy to do so. The only way to get through this unprecedented time in history is to look out for each other.
If you feel inspired, and are in a position to do so, please consider a donation to The Trussell Trust - Each and every penny will go to my local Trussell Trust Food bank in Arnold, Nottingham. They do absolutely vital work feeding thousands of people, work that is needed more now than ever.
Independent Documentary filming in the age of Corona - A Field guide
Doc Society has been working with Sundance Institute and Field of Vision to produce a ‘living document’ which offers a risk framework, current best practice and resource tools to help filmmakers, partners and funders navigate these unchartered waters.
Independent Documentary: Filming In The Time Of Corona Virus is designed to encourage frank and open discussions at an early stage and to ensure that where there are doubts filmmakers err on the side of caution.
Field Of Vision - Virtual Mentorship and Consultation Service For The Documentary Community
From Monday, March 16, the Field of Vision team will offer a virtual "office hours" service for the documentary community. As we’re in a moment of uncertainty, we want to make ourselves available to filmmakers in any way we can. We understand that the industry is experiencing a lot of upheaval, and that this is a particularly difficult time for freelancers and people working independently.
We have allocated time every weekday until Friday, May 1st (we may extend depending on the situation) to have video meetings and calls. We’ll be prioritising filmmakers who’ve been affected by festival postponements and production changes, but will also be available to offer a range of mentorship and consultation around a variety of areas.
At Field of Vision we like filmmakers to lead and improve how we work. We were inspired by Jeanie Finlay, who has opened her time to mentoring after an upcoming film shoot had to be cancelled. Jeanie is working on a new film that we’re extremely honoured to be supporting.
We are a small team and will try our best to make ourselves available to as many filmmakers and producers as possible. If any other members of our community would also like to donate their time, we are happy to facilitate this as well, so please feel free to reach out to us.
The areas which we would like to offer consultation on are below:
General mentorship
Feedback on proposals and grant applications
Project Development
Online Distribution
Digital Engagement
Partnerships
Pitch Training
Editing
Technology & Digital Security
Distribution
Editorial Feedback
Festival Strategy
Career Guidance
Directors UK Inspire: A Mentoring and Career Development programme
Directors UK is delighted to announce the continuation of Inspire, the year-round mentoring programme for Full and Associate members, which aims to encourage directors across all genres to seek structured support to enhance their career opportunities.
As part of our on-going action to widen opportunities for the broadest range of talent – including those traditionally unable to access networks – Directors UK is keen to accommodate and support this important area.
Often the best mentoring partnerships thrive when the mentee is just one or two steps away from the mentor in terms of their respective career paths. Reaching out to someone who is best placed to advise and support you is important.
The 2020 deadlines
April 3 2020
This is a fantastic opportunity for directors who are seeking regular support, and to build a fruitful relationship that could lead to further career opportunities.
Documentary Association of Europe Consultations
f you're feeling anxious about the next 12 months, your film's premiere has been cancelled or you feel like you've lost a crucial pitching moment, book a consultation with DAE.
For now open to members and non-members alike, preference given to those who are affected by the cancellations and postponements of festivals and events.
These consultations are free of charge.
Mind: Coronavirus and your wellbeing
You might be worried about coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) and how it could affect your life. This may include being asked to stay at home or avoid other people.
This might feel difficult or stressful. But there are lots of things you can try that could help your wellbeing.
This information is to help you cope if:
you’re feeling anxious or worried about coronavirus
you’re asked to stay at home or avoid public places, for example if your employer asks you to work from home
you have to self-isolate. This means you avoid contact with other people and follow strict hygiene rules. The NHS has advice about self-isolation in English and advice about self-isolation in Welsh. For how long to self-isolate, see the current government advice in English or the current government advice in Welsh.