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 | Feature Project |
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THE AFS FEATURE PROJECT IS BRAND NEW and is launching in January 2010. We are taking our 'short film school' model, and expanding it to feature films.
How does it work? Seven simple steps:
First, it's run like a class. Loco Dawn Films CEO and AFS Founder Monroe Mann is the instructor, supervising producer, and final arbiter in case of disputes. Monroe Mann holds a Master of Entrepreneurship degree; is a 4th year JD/MBA student; is a member of SAG, AFTRA, & EQUITY; is a combat veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom; and is well trained to lead this charge!
Second, half of each student's tuition is set aside as the production budget for the film. Together, we form an LLC (Limited Liability Company) thus creating a production company specifically for the feature film we are developing. We open a bank account in the company's name, and voila, half of your tuition goes into the bank account. [1 - 2 WEEKS]
Third, for the first three months, through a structured method, we co-write the feature-length script together. This process will take approximately 2 - 3 months of in-person meetings, as well as phone and email collaboration. True to the AFS tradition, each student will also ACT in the production, i.e. yes as an actor, and a part is written for that person's unique talents. The script will be ensemble based, and will use simple locations to stay within budget. [2 - 3 MONTHS]
Fourth, we move into pre-production together as co-producers. Everyone is involved as a production manager, production accountant, and producer: location scouting; permits; filing the SAG Ultra Low Budget paperwork; additional casting if necessary; rehearsals; equipment familiarity; etc. [1 - 2 MONTHS]
Fifth, we produce the film together. On set. Helping one another. Each student rotates through the various roles of sound, camera, lighting, directing, script supervision, acting, etc. In the end, we have a professionally shot feature film IN THE CAN. [2 - 4 MONTHS]
Sixth, yep, we edit the film together. We use Final Cut Pro at the Loco Dawn Films production office. We each will rotate through the production office, editing our fair share of the film in teams of two. In the end, we have a professionally shot feature READY FOR DISTRIBUTION. [3 - 4 MONTHS)
Seventh, we put a marketing plan together for the film, submit to at least 20 film festivals, and together, work our butts off in a "best efforts" attempt to get a distribution deal for the film. Best case scenario: the film is a hit and we all make off like bandits. Worst case: you all went through the process of making a feature film from A to Z; you have an awesome bunch of credits on the Internet Movie Database; you will have the wherewithal and experience to produce your own feature film; you will have made friends with a solid group of similarly well-trained industry contacts; and you will have done what 95% of people talk about in Hollywood but never end up doing: MAKING A FEATURE FILM.
I hope you will join us!
COMMON QUESTIONS
- How much does it cost? If you are an AFS short film grad, it is $1750. If you are a client of Unstoppable Artists, tuition is $2000. Otherwise, tuition is $2500. PAID IN FULL, NON-REFUNDABLE--PAID VIA CHECK, CREDIT CARD, OR CASH PRIOR TO DAY ONE. A maximum of 12 students will be accepted. Payment plans may be considered, but your total investment would be larger.
- How long is the program? No less than 12 months, and no longer than 16. Most class meetings will be on Saturdays--usually twice a month--but accommodations will be made for each student if Saturdays are not possible. Shooting dates will accommodate each student. DO NOT WORRY ABOUT SCHEDULING--we'll figure it out together.
- What if I am in SAG? Since you are in SAG (like me, Monroe) you are in a unique position because you are both producing a film, and also acting in it, and are subject to union rules. In this case, you (as producer) will be financing your own paychecks (as actor). In other words, you will be paid as a SAG actor, but your tuition investment will be increased to cover the costs of your fees as a union actor. This is completely "above board" because YOU are a co-owner of the company that is being formed. In other words, you essentially end up just hiring yourself. Make sense?
- What about auditions? We use a process at AFS that ensures that every role written for each actor is tailor made for that individual. The acting will be great. 'Auditions' would only occur if the script we write together requires more actors than we have--in which case we would collectively hold a casting call and choose the right actor(s) for the role(s).
- Who do you let in to the program? Only those individuals who prove to me (Monroe) that they are serious, professional, talented, and can handle the rigors of a program that may last upwards of 18 months. This is part of the reason why tuition for AFS grads and Unstoppable Artists clients is lower: I already know who they are and have worked with them professionally. The extra fee for non-grads and non-clients is somewhat of an insurance policy, because I don't know exactly how much they really know, or how much they are not telling me.
- How do I register? If you are interested, please call or email Monroe Mann at Loco Dawn Films or Unstoppable Artists.
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