02/03/2011

Film London and BBC Films have launched the fifth year of the micro-budget feature filmmaking scheme Microwave.

Microwave is aimed at London-based filmmakers who have production experience and want to make features. Successful teams are awarded production funding plus a bespoke programme of mentoring, training and support to produce a feature film for up to £120,000 with cash and in-kind support. The budget threshold is up from £100,000 in previous years.

Past features under the scheme include the BAFTA nominated Shifty [+see also:
trailer
film profile] and Microwave has 13 features on its slate. A key element of Microwave is Microschool, the four-day boot camp combining seminars and masterclasses, focusing on specific micro-budget topics alongside designated project development. Each team works closely with an established Director, Writer and Producer mentor to develop the project and the team.

Film London CEO Adrian Wootton said, “Through Microwave, Film London aims to stimulate a truly independent and unique approach to creative film-making. The way the fund is set up – with cash funding plus professional mentoring and support from script to screen – provides filmmakers the opportunity to develop both their creative and business skills in a hands-on environment. We are proud of Microwave’s track record and its success in discovering new talent and progressing their careers; perhaps we will see them become the next generation of British Oscar winners!”