THE DIRECTING LAB provides guidance under established industry professionals who serve as Creative Advisors, Directing Lab Fellows receive script feedback, discuss their visions, and work with an acting coach to select short scenes from their screenplays to workshop in the Lab. This five-week program provides an important opportunity to work with actors and concludes with an industry pitch event at the end of the program.

“An intensive, five-week program for directors who are prepping their independent feature films.” – Marc Ford

Each director then casts actors and rehearses their scenes in the workshop before undertaking a mini-production: We provide Fellows with digital camera, lighting and sound packages to shoot their scenes, and offers access to experienced casting directors, cinematographers, and editors with whom to collaborate and consult.

WHO CAN APPLY?

The Directing Lab is open to any director who is attached to an unproduced, feature-length narrative film with an eye toward production. Writer-directors are welcome to apply, as are directing teams, who may submit a single application. International applicants are welcome to apply. At this time, documentary, short film and television projects are not eligible to apply.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants must submit the following materials for consideration:

  • A cover letter addressing your interest in the program and what you hope to gain by participating in the Directing Lab (500 words max)
  • An artistic statement describing your vision for your film (500 words max)
  • A complete feature-length screenplay
  • A logline and synopsis
  • Project status and history (500 words max)
  • A link to previously directed work (if applicable)

Applicants must be the original author and owner of the Project they submit. Applications submitted via email will not be considered.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Tipstor® is looking for talented filmmakers attached to feature-length narrative film projects that are compelling, original and demonstrate a unique vision. We are open to first-time directors, as well as those with previous directing experience. A work sample is required in order to be considered for the program. For filmmakers with no previous experience, the sample does not need to be from a completed work with high production value. The purpose of the sample is to give the selection committee a sense of your potential as a visual storyteller and ability to work with actors.

WORKSHOP FEE

Online / Zoom
Real-time video-conference
Tuition: €400

One-On-One
Tuition: €100 / Hour
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Lisbon
In-person
Tuition: €450

Each applicant must be the original author and owner of the script they submit.

THE FINE PRINT

Tipstor® Membership is not required when applying to the Screenwriting Lab.

Applicants who are accepted to participate in the program should plan to be in Lisbon or on Zoom for the duration of the Lab. Tipstor® is unable to subsidize any travel, lodging and/or visa expenses for any participants attending from outside of Lisbon. Participants are expected to attend all sessions.