An Investment in the Future – The launch of the Take One Feature Film Grant
The Take One Feature Film Grant targeted at emerging local first time narrative feature filmmakers (directors) was launched on June 8, 2018 by Dr. the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts earlier today at the VIP Room, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain.
This initiative, which is open to citizens; permanent residents of Trinidad and Tobago or returning nationals who have been living in Trinidad and Tobago for at least one year continuously, is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts and New World Film Centre (NWFC).
The Ministry will be providing three grants valued at $250,000 each for the production of three feature films to be premiered at the 2019 Film Festival as part of CARIFESTA XIV in Trinidad and Tobago from August 16th to 25th, 2019.
Eligible submissions must be in English, of the narrative/fiction genre and a minimum length of 72 minutes. While there is no specific theme, the films must be positive and developmental whilst celebrating the spirit and essence of Trinidad and Tobago. Submissions will be judged by a three person jury comprising of a representative of the Ministry, a representative of FilmCo and an internationally renowned professional.
One of the exciting aspects of this initiative is the mentorship component in which applicants get the opportunity to work under the supervision of the New World Film Centre (NWFC), parent company of the Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival (TTFF).
In delivering the feature address at the launch, Dr. the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly stated that “this project seeks to discover nascent talent, nurture budding artistes and promote artistic expression. Our artforms, our stories are world class and they need to be packaged and shared”. She further affirmed that “many filmmakers toil in the vineyards for years working to get their passion onto the screen. We are now part of their team helping to make their vision a reality; this grant is an investment in that dream”.
This was reiterated by Bruce Paddington, Founder and Director of New World Film Centre. He said that “we are convinced we will get some very exciting productions that will ensure that Trinidad and Tobago is the most talented and progressive film producing nation in the English speaking Caribbean”.
The deadline for submissions is July 30, 2018. Submissions can be emailed to nwfc@ttfilmfestival.com. Selected projects will be notified by August 31, 2018.
For more information local first time narrative feature filmmakers can contact the New World Film Centre at 223-2278