Filmmakers began registering online March 1 at www.film-lab.org for the worldwide filmmaking competition, designed to promote gender and ethnic diversity in media and empower emerging female filmmakers and filmmakers of color, particularly Asian Americans.
Judges include Marci Phillips (VP, Casting for ABC Primetime), Antony Wong, Program Coordinator at the Asian American / Asian Research Institute AAARI, The City University of New York (ADA CUNY), Daniel Sakaya of CrossingsTV, and more.
Shootout teams compete for film festival and television exhibitions, mentorships from top executives at major networks, such as ABC, cash, and other prizes. The top 10 films have the chance to be screened at the prestigious Asian American International Film Festival, the only festival of its kind on the East Coast.
The Shootout creates opportunities for filmmakers from underrepresented groups, particularly Asian Americans, to demonstrate their talent, gain exposure in the entertainment industry and create positive significant impact on the visibility of Asian and Asian American stories and characters in film and television. One Shootout requirement is that at least one key production member (e.g., director, producer or writer) and a principal actor from each team must be of Asian descent. The competition is also a perfect way for filmmakers, actors, writers, directors, editors, and “newbies” to learn, test their abilities and teamwork without any significant financial or time commitment.
“In light of all the challenges we’ve faced and are facing, from political turbulence to the pandemic to the rising levels of anti-AAPI hate and violence, we’re hopeful this year’s Shootout can bring about some constructive catharsis through the use of film,” said Film Lab’s President Jennifer Betit Yen, a celebrated actress.
Jennifer Betit Yen
The Film Lab is a non-profit 501(c)(3) headquartered in New York City that has been dedicated to the promotion and support of gender and ethnic diversity in media since 1998. The Film Lab accomplishes that goal in three ways: (1) education; (2) outreach and support; and (3) film, television and online entertainment production.
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Gregg W. Morris can be reached at gregghc@comcast.net or profgreggwmorris@gmail.com