The Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival’s UNSUNG VOICES Video Production Workshop will provide emerging artists the chance to express themselves through film and media art, learn from professionals in the field, and to produce a distinct story for the screen.

A select group of emerging filmmakers will be provided an opportunity to produce and present their film (8 mins maximum), in any genre (eg. fiction, documentary, experimental, etc). The entire collection of films will receive a world premiere at the 27th Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival in November 2023.

2023 Program Description

• This program is tuition free and there are no fees* required to apply
• Participants must be between ages 18–29 and self-identify as Asian
• Honorarium will be provided to participants
• Workshops and learning sessions will be conducted online in the late spring/summer of 2023 (see timeline and more below)
• Participants will learn and experiment with skills to complete a video production:
  • Creative (ideation, experimentation, and critical thinking skills about filmmaking & arts practice)
  • Technical (writing, visual storytelling, image creation, non-linear digital editing)
  • Project Management (planning for and executing production, collaboration)

* While there are no fees to apply and be part of the program, depending on the nature of your project you may have to contribute to costs associated with your production (ex. props, materials, talent, etc.)

Theme

“Ahhhh!”

Did you hear that? Was it loud or was it quiet? Was it a sigh of relief after a hard day’s work, a kitschy horror scream, a Bildungsroman revelation, or a declaration of arrogant confidence?

Inspired by the 1974 collection “Aiiieeeee! An Anthology of Asian-American Writers!”, this year’s theme reflects on representations of Asian surprise, joy, rage, and/or pain (aiya/aiyo/aya!). What can an exclamation reveal, and what conclusions can gut reactions lead us to? Use “Ahhhh!” to think not only about what you want to express—but also at what volume.

The theme is a jumping off point, and we want to see where your imagination takes you. 

Expectations and Eligibility

We are looking for self-motivated, resourceful, and open-minded individuals who are willing to go on a (virtual) summer trip with us together. Filmmaking is hard, making art is a privilege, especially now and under these circumstances. Creativity is key as we will be making work to be presented and engaged in a virtual space.

Participants should expect one-to-two online sessions per week (approx 4-8 hrs/week) and 3-4 hours of consultation/meeting time with an assigned mentor over the course of the program, as well as additional and necessary time to work on and complete their project.

UV is open to Asian-identifying young people (age 18-29) from anywhere in Canada. Apply and tell us more about you and your ideas! If you need assistance with your application or are experiencing barriers to applying, please contact aram@reelasian.com.

Selected participants’ film projects will be premiered at the Reel Asian Film Festival in November 2023 as part of a final presentation and Q&A. Participants receive full accreditation to the festival, and travel and accommodations will be provided to those from outside the Greater Toronto Area.

Attendance at online program sessions and the final presentation are mandatory.

Program Timeline

• Call for applications – March 20, 2023
• Info Session livestream – March 29, 2023 at 7PM EST 
• Deadline – April 21, 2023 at 9PM EST
• Shortlist notified – April 30, 2023
• Interviews – May 6 & 7, 2023 
• Program start – May 18, 2023
• May 23-June 25* :Ideation, Scriptwriting, Pre-Production (2 sessions per week)
• June 26-July 23*: Production (1 session per week) 
• July 24-August 23*: Post-Production (1 session per week)
• August 24-31*: Delivery of final files for post-finishing
• September 1-30: Post-finishing
• November 8-19: Attend World Premiere screening at Reel Asian Film Festival 

*Specific session dates TBA. Timeline subject to change. Additional consults scheduled as necessary.

Info session livestream
7PM EST on March 29, 2023

Unsung Voices 2023 applications are now open.

For questions or additional support please contact aram@reelasian.com

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