BABYLON 2008

Programme 2012

BABYLON offers targeted, high-quality, project-based training for teams of feature film Writers, Directors and Producers, aimed at preparing their projects for the international market and maximising their production and distribution potential by the acquisition of key skills put into practice over an extended period.

The programme focuses on a combination of script development, production skills and market understanding, balancing intensive residential workshops with continuous mentoring by senior industry consultants.

Babylon's aim is to to build a successful and diverse pool of film storytelling and talent; to promote and strengthen cultural diversity within the independent film sector, and to provide an international platform for emerging filmmakers.

The Babylon Europe Programme 2012 incorporates the following course components:

A 3-day Feature Film development workshop in London from 30th March to 1st April 2012, focused on intensive script work and developing market awareness for projects, tutored by high-level industry professionals.

Introductory pitching and group discussion of selected projects
In-depth screenplay and project analysis with professional consultants in smaller project groups
Screening and discussion of extracts from participants' previously filmed work
Lectures and case studies covering related topics - dramaturgy, market placement, packaging and financing
Welcome dinner and networking reception
Accommodation available for out of London participants

In parallel, a 3-day German-speaking workshop Diverse Geschichten in Graz, from March 25th to 28th, organised by Babylon Austrian partners Witcraft.

Follow-up online (email/phone) consultation period (April/May 2012) focused on script rewrites and pre-market packaging supported by Babylon course mentors, leading to:

A 4-day industry workshop for all participants in Cannes from 18th to 21st May 2012 combining targeted industry seminars, panels and case studies, ongoing consultation and networking:

Orientation tour of the Cannes Market
Free accreditation to Cannes Market and screenings
Daily seminar programme with industry guests
Ongoing project consultation
Advice with finance plan and co-production options
Personal mentoring and introductions
Public discussion with industry professionals
Networking opportunities
3 nights free accommodation

Follow-up online (email/phone) consultation period (May/Oct 2012) building on Cannes Market input, focused on further project rewrites plus packaging and financing preparation, leading to:

A 3-day project workshop culminating in Conference, Pitching and Networking Event at the BFI London Film Festival (October 2012) designed to consolidate industry link-ups for participants and their project, plus industry case studies, panel discussion and pitching forum.

The participation fee for the annual programme will be GBP 250 (Euros 295) per person, with an additional GBP 125 (Euros 147.50) payable if selected for Cannes.

Ongoing membership of the Babylon network is free for all graduates.

BABYLON EUROPE is funded by the Skillset Film Skills Fund (UK) as part of A Bigger Future 2, and the Vienna Film Fund Film Fonds Wien (Austria).