The Short Cut Film Fund is an opportunity for three aspiring filmmakers aged 16-25 years old to receive a grant of £1,000 to create a short film with a running time of up to five minutes. This includes all stages of production from start to finish, including script, shooting and post-production. The aim of the programme is to nurture new talent from underrepresented groups with recipients receiving tailored mentoring support throughout.
Part of the BFI Film Academy, delivered by the Young Film Network South East, and made possible thanks to National Lottery funding, Short Cut Film Fund is open to all, with no prior filmmaking experience required. Focused on the creative process rather than product, it is designed to showcase filmmaking ambition and the potential of young creatives. There is no requirement for high-quality equipment – phones or any device can be used to capture the individuals' stories.
Catharine Des Forges, Director of the Independent Cinema Office, which established the Young Film Network South East said, “We are excited to see the level of ambition from the next generation of filmmakers and are looking to attract individuals who didn’t necessarily know that filmmaking was for them. There is so much talent to tap into in the South East and we hope that by eradicating the need for prior experience we open up who applies.”
At the end of the programme recipients will be invited to showcase their work at a BFI Film Academy SCENE event in the South East region in 2024. The deadline to apply is 9am on Monday 13 November 2023 and applicants can do so via the website below.
For further information, contact Amy Cresswell: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
About the BFI Film Academy: BFI Film Academy offers opportunities for ambitious 16-25 year olds, anywhere in the UK, to get to know more about film and how to forge a career in the screen industries.
About Young Film Network South East: Young Film Network South East (YFNSE) works with venues and organisations across the South East with the aim of increasing access to and appreciation of cultural cinema among 16-25 year olds, and encourage a greater awareness of strategic progression routes for young people within the industry.
YFNSE are supported by BFI Film Academy and the BFI Film Audience Network, awarding funds from the National Lottery. The Network was established in 2017 by the Independent Cinema Office.
