Latest News

URGENT: Crew needed for Midlands Feature October/November 2010

PULP – A Comic Comedy

Produced by Adam Hamdy and Phil Bland, and Directed by Shaun Magher.

Pulp is a micro budget feature shooting this autumn. We need crew from the region to turn a fantastic script into a great film. There is already incredibly talented crew and cast attached to the project with the following positions are still available for applications. Filming will take place in Birmingham and Stoke on Trent for 20 days in November. Please note, ALL crew and cast are working on full deferrals, expenses, accommodation, and shares in the production company.

Crew Positions Available

 1st AD

Art Director

Focus Puller

Gaffer

Grip x1

Sparks x1

Costume

Sound Recordist/Mixer

 

All applications and queries should be sent to p.bland@reelsinmotion.co.uk

 

PULP – The adventure begins…

 

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Call for proposals: Why Poverty? UK Shorts

Award-winning production company Mosaic Films has partnered with BBC Storyville and the Joseph Rowntree Foundation to launch an open call for proposals exploring poverty in the UK.

Three short (6-10 min) documentaries that take a fresh view on the often misreported and misunderstood issues surrounding poverty in the UK will be commissioned as part of the forthcoming global cross-media project Why Poverty?

Six shortlisted filmmakers will be selected to pitch at Sheffield Doc/Fest in November as part of the festival’s special focus on poverty in the media. The final three films will be produced over the following six months, premiering at Doc/Fest in June 2011.

For more details and to submit click here

Deadline for receipt of proposals: 5pm, Monday 11th October

Find out more: Mosaic Films and JRF are hosting an open session on Tuesday 14th September, from 2 - 4pm at the Amnesty International Auditorium in London. RSVP to poverty@mosaicfilms.com

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Channel 4 Internship - HR Assistant

Up to 9 months paid placement, starting November 2010

£20k pro-rata, based in London

You'd love to get some real experience of HR in the media industry.  To explore where a career in our industry could take you.  Here's your chance, because we've an exciting new HR Assistant placement starting this November.  What we'd really like is someone who wants to work within the heart of a dynamic HR team; who can work with us to develop fresh ideas to engage with, develop and recruit disabled talent for our business.  With the 2012 Paralympics just round the corner, this is an important area for us.  In fact, the Games will be the largest event in Channel 4's history, with a mix of documentaries, features and live coverage.  So who are we looking for?  Well, we don't care about your background.  Whether you went to university or not.  What qualifications you've got - or haven't.  We're more interested in your talent, raw passion and burning ambition to get into our business.  So what’s stopping you?

Department

Human Resources provides a range of support including: HR Operations, Recruitment, Reward and Benefits, Occupational Health, Learning and Development, 4Talent and Internal Communications.

Job Purpose

The HR Assistant will provide day to day admin support for the teams within HR, spending time during their internship within Learning and 4Talent, HR Operations, Reward and Benefits, Systems and Administration and Internal Communications.  During your time at Channel 4 you will be delivering a project alongside the 4Talent team which will enable them to bring your knowledge of disability to the organisation.  You will be integral in moving Channel 4's internal disability strategy forward in the run up to the 2012 Paralympic Games through engaging with prospective disabled candiates and attracting them to Channel 4.

Key Responsibilities

• Providing administrative support within the HR department, including diary management, meetings, emails, filing, maintaining databases.
• Provides research support to the 4Talent team.
• Provides general support to the various HR teams including:
• Managing and communicating information to the wider teams.
• Identifying and obtaining relevant paperwork for meetings and undertaking research where necessary.
• Responding independently to incoming information requests.
• Creation and revision of documents such as Powerpoint presentations, Excel spreadsheets etc.
• Filing, archiving and general administrative duties.
• Recruitment project work

Person Specification

• A strong interest in Human Resources.
• Excellent administrative and organisational skills.
• Good computer skills including Word, Outlook, Powerpoint and Excel.
• Good team spirit with a general willingness to get involved.
• Strong numerical and data-handling skills.
• Good research skills.
• Good attention to detail.
• Excellent writing skills.
• Good communication skills.
• Active social networker and blogger.

Please note you must be available to start this placement in November 2010.  Scheduled assessment date: 8th October 2010 (subject to change).

To apply click onto: www.channel4.com/4talent

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The Media Festival Arts

Making digital collaboration happen across arts, film and media

8-10 September 2010, The Roundhouse, London

Save 25% - Your special VIP discount to attend The Media Festival Arts from Martian Landing

If you want to know the latest conversations on digital collaboration across arts, film and media, then TMFA 2010 is for you.

Save 25% - As a highly valued Martian Landing Blog reader, I am delighted to offer you a special discount rate of 25% to attend The Media Festival Arts.

“At the Media Festival Arts you’ll hear from some of the most imaginative pioneers in the online world.” - Peter Bazalgette, Deputy Chairman, English National Opera & Media Festival Arts Chair 

The Media Festival Arts promises to address the critical questions facing arts, film and media businesses at a time of widespread change. As the new government beds in, and anounces cuts, restructuring and economising of public funding mechanisms, and disruptive technologies continue to radically alter the way in which audiences consume, engage with and share content, the festival will bring together stakeholders from across the industries to discuss and debate the pressing issues faced by all, and find practical solutions to the challenges that lie ahead.

The Media Festival Arts is the only event bringing together the arts and media sectors to outline the potential for collaboration, skills exchange and partnership.

The Media Festival Arts brings over 40 leading speakers from arts, film and media including:
- Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport
- Russell Davies, Founder, The Newspaper Club
- Roly Keating, Head of Archive, BBC
- Fred Bolza, VP, Marketing Services, Sony Music Ltd
- Sally Potter, Director, Adventure Pictures
- Chris Clarke, Chief Creative Officer, Lost Boys International
- James Hunt, Head of Programming, Sky Arts
- Tabitha Jackson, Arts Commissioner, Channel 4
- Andrew Nairne, Director of Arts Strategy, Arts Council England
- Alex Stanhope, Lead Technologist, Technology Strategy Board
- David Sabel, Head of Digital Media, Producer NT Live, National Theatre
- Toby Barnes, Founder, Mudlark
- Clare Reddington, Director, iShed
- Alan Yentob, Creative Director, BBC
- John Woodward, Chief Executive, UK Film Council
- Jamie Schwartz,  VP Theatrical Marketing, Momentum Pictures
- Mike Stubbs, Director, FACT
- Mathew Horsman, Founder, Mediatique
- Matt Locke, Acting Head of Cross Platform, Channel 4
- Mark Thompson, Director General, BBC

Why attend The Media Festival Arts?
- Explore how and why arts, film and media organisations can collaborate
- Understand how audiences behave online in order to better engage and communicate with them
- Discover what funding and financing opportunities exist for innovation and new forms of partnership
- Get to grips with the practicalities of digital, from social networking to search engine optimisation to digital rights
- Meet like-minded similar organisations looking for new opportunity in the on and offline world

Over 180 attendees already for the Media Festival Arts including:
BBC Research & Development / British Film Institute / Channel 4 BRITDOC Foundation / Colman Getty / Culture 24 / English National Opera / Film Agency for Wales / Fremantle Media Enterprises / Glyndebourne / London Philharmonic Orchestra / London Symphony Orchestra / Manchester International Festival / Naked Communications / Opera North / Royal Court Theatre / Sadler’s Wells Theatre / Shakespeare’s Globe / Welsh National Opera / York Theatre Royal & Pilot / Theatre Company and many more...

Follow this link to download the full list of attendees NOW

“With the seismic shifts in arts funding and the digital tremors running through broadcasting, the arts media are getting a fundamental rethink - Media Festival Arts is an ideal time and place to get a sense of how things are being reshaped.” - Adam Gee, Commissioning Editor, Cross - platform.(factual & arts), Channel 4

“At a time when we must continue to innovate, it’s exciting to bring together this diverse group of people to spark debate, bounce ideas off each other and create opportunities.” - David Sabel, Head of Digital Media, Producer, NT Live, National Theatre

Follow this link to download the full list of attendees NOW.

For more information - download the new brochure today! 
 
Hope to see you there!

The Media Festival Arts and Martian Landing
T: +44 (0)845 056 7566
T: +44 (0)20 7554 5804
E: mediafestival@emap.com
F: 0207 728 5299
W: www.themediafestivalarts.com

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Shooting and Directing 360 – with skillset funding available

Shooting and Directing 360 – with skillset funding available

25th & 26th September
 
Our critically acclaimed shooting and directing courses are coming to Birmingham.  Incredibly practical we not only teach our graduates how to use the camera, but also how to create efficient workflows and shoot sequences, interviews and uncontrollable action. Covering everything from basic set up to manual focus, the course is designed to leave trainees feeling confident using kit and prepare them for becoming a self shooter for both broadcast and online projects.  All our trainers are professional cameramen at the cutting edge of the TV industry who teaches from experience using the kit day in day out on some of the top broadcast TV programmes.
 
The course costs £845 + VAT. Best of all Skillset are offering discounts of up to 80% to freelancers and 50% for company employees, making for unbeatable value.
£164 + VAT for freelancers
£420 + VAT companies
 
Interested must have 3 broadcast credits or more to apply for the funding. Call us on 020 7267 2300 or e-mail a CV  to training@dvtalent.co.uk to begin the application process

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One-to-one advice clinics for creative businesses in Shropshire

Business Link West Midlands is holding a series of FREE one-to-one advice clinics for creative businesses in Shropshire. During the session you will be able to discuss with an adviser a range of issues which maybe affecting your business, including:
- How to reach more customers
- Making the most of your money
- Identifying ways of streamlining your business processes
- Keeping up-to-date with the law
- Maximising the sales of your work
And much more. . . 

28th September 2010 

The Place, Oakengates Thearte, Limes Walk, Oakengates, Telford, TF2 6EP

Times Slots Available:
09.00am - 10.00am
10.00am - 11.00am
11.00am - 12.00pm
13.00pm - 14.00pm
14.00pm - 15.00pm
15.00pm - 16.00pm
16.00pm - 17.00pm 1st October 2010

Wem Town Hall, High Street, Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5DG

Times Slots Available:
09.00am - 10.00am
10.00am - 11.00am
11.00am - 12.00pm
13.00pm - 14.00pm
14.00pm - 15.00pm
15.00pm - 16.00pm
16.00pm - 17.00pm
 
4th October 2010

Craven Arms Community Centre, Newington Way, Craven Arms, Shropshire, SY7 9PS

Times Slots Available:
09.00am - 10.00am
10.00am - 11.00am
11.00am - 12.00pm
13.00pm - 14.00pm
14.00pm - 15.00pm
15.00pm - 16.00pm
16.00pm - 17.00pm
 7th October 2010

Louise House, Roman Road, Meole Brace, Shrewsbury, SY3 9JN

Times Slots Available:
09.00am - 10.00am
10.00am - 11.00am
11.00am - 12.00pm
12.30pm - 13.30pm
13.30pm - 14.30pm
14.30pm - 15.30pm
15.30pm - 16.30pm

To book a session please call 01743 252305 or email sarah.rollason@shropshire.gov.uk, stating your preferred venue and time slot.

As these appointments are free of charge, we expect them to be taken quickly. Time slots will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Make sure you don't miss out - reserve yours today!

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New Power to Cross Media Content For Kids

Nordisk Film & TV Fond and Power to the Pixel join forces in new ambitious collaboration.
 
The Nordic region (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden) has a proud tradition of producing high quality film and TV programs for children. However content is no longer only consumed in cinemas and on TV screens. Mobile phones, game consoles and online platforms are new arenas for storytelling. Nordic production companies now have a unique chance to enter the scene.
 
To enhance the development of six pre-selected high quality Nordic cross-media projects Nordisk Film & TV Fond is joining forces with UK cross-media experts Power to the Pixel. 
A development process will be specially designed and conducted by Power to the Pixel who will invite some of the best international experts who are working in cross-media.
 
The collaboration has two sessions:
 
The High Five Power to the Pixel Lab (17-19 November 2010 in Copenhagen)
Residential three-day workshop for the six selected Nordic cross media projects and international experts. Topics cover: Creating the Story Universe, Story Design, Project Planning, Delivery Platforms and Audience Engagement Design
 
The High Five Power to the Pixel Forum (14-16 March 2011 in Malmø, Sweden)
An open Cross Media Seminar and a Pitching and Finance Forum taking place over two days at the BUFF Financing Forum. The Seminar will focus on: Cross Media Design, Audience Engagement and Cross Media Financing
 
 
Liz Rosenthal, Founder of Power to the Pixel said
 
“High Five Kids is an essential new development scheme. Power to the Pixel is excited to be working with Nordisk Film & TV Fond and Nordic companies on this innovative new project that explores powerful new ways to tell stories, package finance and engage with young audiences in an ever-evolving on-demand digital world”.
 
 
Hanne Palmquist, CEO of Nordisk Film & TV Fond said
 
“The concept of High Five Kids really thrills me. We do not “only” offer a development grant but also a unique process of development on top. That Power to the Pixel are joining us means that the six selected Nordic projects and the industry as such will get world class guidance in the complex field of cross media”.
 
The deadline for Nordic applicants is 6th of September 2010.
 
High Five Cross Media Content For Kids Guidelines and Application Form
 - See here: http://www.nordiskfilmogtvfond.com/index.php?sid=89&ptid=2
 
 
For further information please contact:
 
Hanne Palmquist, CEO Nordisk Film &TV Fond: hanne@nordiskfilmogtvfond.com / +47 6400 6080
www.nordiskfilmogtvfond.com
 
Liz Rosenthal, CEO Power to the Pixel: liz@powertothepixel.com / +44 (0)20 7453 4017
www.powertothepixel.com

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Director of Project, Logistics and Finance (maternity cover)

Director of Project, Logistics and Finance (maternity cover)
CAPSULE
 
Fixed Term Freelance Contract
5 days a week for 4 months (17.2 weeks) may be extended
£25-£30k pro rata
Start Date 1st November 2010
 
This is a unique opportunity to join one of the UK’s most dynamic arts organisation to provide maternity cover for one of its two Directors.
 
Capsule are looking for an experienced professional with practical knowledge of this work area, who has a successful record in project management, logistics and finance management especially working within the cultural industries and including experience of advocacy, fundraising and networking at a national level.
 
This is a full-time, fixed-term contract from 1st November 2010.  Salary will be within the range advertised, depending on skills and experience.  This would be an ideal secondment opportunity for the right candidate.
 
Since 1999 Capsule has been instrumental in transforming Birmingham into one of the most important ports-of-call on the international experimental cultural circuit. Champions of all things avant-garde, Capsule are curators, promoters and fans of the finest music and culture, revealing the otherwise indescribable connections between contemporary music and art, crafting extraordinary events for adventurous audiences.
 
Capsule produce a year round programme of 25-30 events, as well as internationally renowned Supersonic Festival and innovative music heritage project Home of Metal.
 
Key areas of responsibility
 
- Project Management
- Project Logistics
- Project Team Management
- Project Finance Management
- Liaising / managing project stakeholders
- Report writing / project evaluation
- Fundraising
 
Person Specifications
 
Essential
The successful candidate must;
 
- Have demonstrable experience of project management /event co-ordination and managing staff  - at least 3 years experience but can be over freelance contracts.
- Have experience of working on arts events or festivals
- Have experience of managing budgets
- Have experience of fundraising within the cultural sector
- Be computer and web-literate (own computer essential)
- Be able to work remotely (whilst you will be working predominantly from Capsule office it is important to also be able to work from home if required)
- Have excellent communication skills - both spoken and written
- Have imagination and the ability to work creatively 
- Be resourceful, level-headed and able to work under considerable pressure
- Be passionate about creating exciting events which reach out to a range of audiences
- Must have the capacity to work long hours.
- Driver with full / clean UK license and own car (Home of Metal is a regional project and requires a lot of travel around the region – expenses will be covered)
 
To apply, please provide a CV and covering letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the post to Jenny Moore jenny@capsule.org.uk
 
Applications must be received by 5pm on 17th September 2010
 
Please be aware that interviews will be held on 28th & 29th September 2010
 
For more information, contact Jenny at the address above or on 0121 248 2252
 

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SUCCINCT

SUCCINCT, the independent fortnightly e-newsletter to help younavigate the jungle of international information by highlighting key news and information from over 100 international sources who represent or support the world's artists, performers, writers, curators, directors, technicians, educators, managers and researchers.
Visit succinct.culture.info.

You can register to receive SUCCINCT FREE until the end of October 2010

After that, SUCCINCT is only available on subscription - GB£16 / Eur€20 / US$24 per year

BUT: pay before 31 October - GET 50% OFF - you pay just GB£8 / Eur€10 / US$12.

Special rates are available for organisations to forward SUCCINCT to their members, to their students, or to more than 20 staff - for more information, send an email to sucsubscribe@culture.info .

To submit items for inclusion in SUCCINCT, send an email with all relevant info to sucsubmit@culture.info

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2010’s Great Animation Challenge

Submissions for 2010’s Great Animation Challenge are now open! Download the first batch of comedy clips from the player below as mp3’s, then simply animate them!

The annual competition run by Animation Forum WM and Flip Festival, gives animators everywhere from now until 31st August 2010 to animate their favourite comedy clip from the audio provided below, and upload it to our Vimeo Group.

The best entries will then be screened in early September, with the best short winning a place on a one or two day, Apple or Adobe accredited training course (to be confirmed upon Animation Forum WM being granted further funding).

Please note:

o Ideally, entries should be between 30 seconds to 2 minutes in length (although this limit flexible)
o Shorts can be a section of, an edit, or the entire audio clip
o All entries should contain a significant amount of animation
o There is no geographical restrictions to entires
• Upload your entry to the Great Animation Challenge Vimeo Group by the deadline of 31st August.
• Once uploaded, email Dave Allen at info@animationforumwm.co.uk with a link to the video, along with your postal address and phone number.
• If shortlisted, you will be contacted for a screening copy
• Screenings will take place in early September
To download the comedy clip as an mp3, simply click download next to the relevant clip.

Please go to animationforumwm.co.uk/news-display.aspx?id=193 to download the tracks!

(Most clips contain swearing.)

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