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
* 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
*Specific session dates TBA. Timeline subject to change. Additional consults scheduled as necessary.
Unsung Voices Cohorts
Unsung Voices 12 (2023)
Unsung Voices 11 (2022)
Unsung Voices 10 (2021)
Info session livestream
7PM EST on March 29, 2023
Unsung Voices 2023 applications are closed.
For questions or additional support please contact aram@reelasian.com
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Sign up for Industry Bootcamp and meet professionals from various fields, companies and organizations through panels, seminars or one-on-one consultations!
An incubator for arts organizations engaged in the presentation of arts and cultural works. Through a network and collaboration-based approach, a network of arts organizations will be working together, learning from each other and supporting each other as they explore the impact of digital technologies on the presentation of artistic and cultural productions.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED
Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival is a unique showcase of contemporary Asian cinema and work from Asia and the Asian diaspora. Works include films and videos by artists in Canada, the U.S., Asia and all over the world. As Canada’s largest pan-Asian film festival, Reel Asian provides a public forum for Asian media artists and their work, and fuels the growing appreciation for Asian cinema in Canada.
401 Richmond Street West, The Commons (Suite 448)
Toronto, Ontario, M5V 3A8 Canada
(416) 703 – 9333
info@reelasian.com
Charitable number: 870021383RR0001
