Australians in Film and Screen Australia have announced the return of UNTAPPED, the breakthrough professional development program for undiscovered Australian writers and directors.
The program features a masterclass series, followed by an intensive development lab for five creatives or creative teams, to offer Australian screen creatives the opportunity to fast-track their careers and create meaningful professional relationships in Hollywood.
Practitioners must apply to be considered for this program.
Screen Queensland is an Industry Partner of UNTAPPED 2022.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
UNTAPPED 2022 is divided into two parts: a masterclass series and four-month intensive lab program.
MASTERCLASS SERIES
DATES: March – May 2022
The program begins with a series of open-access online masterclasses for all eligible applicants. The series will give Untapped applicants a window into the artistic processes and strategies for creative success
Masterclasses will be delivered by award-winning filmmakers Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi, Short Term 12), Marta Cunningham (Insecure, Transparent), Silas Howard (Dickinson, Pose) and Oscar-nominated screenwriter Meg LeFauve (Inside Out, Captain Marvel).
DEVELOPMENT LAB
DATES: August – November 2022
The second part is a four-month development lab for five selected creators or creative teams, with mentorship from award-winning Hollywood production companies and leading story development consultants.
Five creators or creative teams will be selected for this part of the program: a virtual four-month intensive mentorship. Selected participants will receive individual mentorship, story consultation, creative feedback and professional development support from top industry mentors.
Each creative team will receive a stipend of $2,000 AUD.
Mentors include executives from leading Hollywood production companies, including James Wan’s Atomic Monster, Nicole Kidman’s Blossom Films, Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine and Tanya Saracho’s Ojalá Productions. Individual story consultations and pitch coaching will be led by writing mentors Ellen Shanman and Patricia Verducci.
HOW TO APPLY
To be considered for the program, practitioners must submit an online application including a logline, project synopsis, applicant biography, statement of interest and prior directing work sample, if applicable.
Applications must be submitted by 2 March, 11:59pm AEDT.
First Nations Australians, culturally and linguistically diverse people, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ and people living in regional and remote locations are strongly encouraged to apply for Untapped.
