Applications are now open for iFeatures 2019, a premier UK filmmaking programme driving the development of low-budget, high-quality debut features from the most outstanding, daring and distinctive storytellers. Up to 12 selected teams will receive development funding and take part in an intensive, exploratory lab programme including dedicated support, access to industry & networks, mentoring and high-level training with established industry professionals. iFeatures is run by Creative England and supported by the BFI, awarding funds from the National Lottery, BBC Films and the ScreenSkills Film Skills Fund with contributions from UK film productions.
Who should apply?
iFeatures is targeted at emerging writers, directors and writer/directors from across the UK who have yet to make a funded feature film, and at producers who are still at an emerging stage of their career. They look for creative talent whose work has already garnered positive industry and/or public attention in fields from short films, theatre, TV and documentaries, to online storytelling, art film and video, video gaming, commercials/advertising, graphic novels and music promos.
You should have a project ready to take forward, with a writer, director (or writer-director) and preferably also a producer attached.
What is involved?
In addition to receiving development funding, up to 12 selected teams take part in an intensive, exploratory 10-month programme which includes residential Lab events, dedicated support and access to industry and networks, as well as mentoring and high-level training with established industry professionals. Following the programme, BFI and BBC Films have committed to ensuring that at least three of the projects progress to production.
What films have previously been supported by iFeatures?
iFeatures is driven by the principle that low-budget, ambitious, well told stories can break out to achieve critical, audience and even commercial success. Multi-award winning and acclaimed films developed through the lab have included iFeatures productions Apostasy, Lady Macbeth, The Levelling, and The Goob, as well as further films such as God’s Own Country, Adult Life Skills and Pin Cushion.
Charlotte Regan, who has screened several short films including Dodgy Dave and Fry Up at TriForce Short Film Festival, was accepted onto iFeatures in 2018. She is currently developing her first feature, Nan. You can find out more about her film here: http://ifeatures.co.uk/nan.html
How do I apply?
The deadline for applications is 29 March 2019. Before applying, you should read all their available information on the process, including:
Checklist – a quick checklist of eligibility criteria.
Guidelines – full guidelines on what you need to submit and how to do it.
FAQs – answer to any further questions.
To create your application click here: https://applications.creativeengland.co.uk/
