BFI Network Short Film Funding

Dog Years, written by Jake Mackintosh, Dr by Natalys Willcox.

As the BFI Network Short Film Funding open call is launched, we’re shining a light on the support that Screen Cornwall can offer emerging producers, writers and directors to apply for funding of up to £15k for their next project.

We’ve supported both successful Cornish BFI Network funded shorts so far, helping bring together teams, supporting script development and application drafting as well as being a sounding board throughout production for locations, crew and post production.

Many who consider applying have been through our BFI Network funded training events, including the recent Treatment Writing and Producer round table sessions as well as a Story session with legendary script editor Kate Leys. A potential next step in the pathway to funding is to apply for one of the South West wide development opportunities, such as the Script Development Lab, or approach our team for 121 support through the application process.

Working with this growing network of emerging talent enables us to identify and connect a direct pipeline of Cornish talent with BFI NETWORK Talent Executives Alice Cabanas and Alix Taylor, allowing them to better respond to the needs of Cornish talent. Discussing the impact that Screen Cornwall has on the number and quality of applications, Alix says, “We have seen continual growth in talent from Cornwall and have funded two Cornish directors via our Short Film Fund… The talent development work Screen Cornwall runs in the region helps elevate talent from that area and because of that we do see stronger applications to our funds.”

Mermaids, image courtesy of Mike Hogan.

DOG YEARS, a black comedy about loneliness and aging pets, written by Jake Mackintosh (one of our BBC Cornish Voices) and directed by Falmouth MA graduate Natalys Wilcox was shot in 2020 and is just about to start its festival journey. Nat said: “Making a film during a pandemic definitely throws up some unique challenges - especially when you add a dog into the mix - but after two years of development I was delighted to get back on set with such a great cast & crew and the help offered by Screen Cornwall was invaluable.”

Yazmin Joy Vigus, writer/director of MERMAIDS, the story of two former best friends who are forced to confront the events that destroyed their friendship which was funded in 2019, said: “We've felt very supported by Screen Cornwall. From recommending local crew to encouraging and supporting me personally as I develop my confidence and craft for future projects, the team have carved a space for Cornish filmmakers to be seen and elevated like never before!”

The current BFI Network Short Film Funding open call closes on 7th June at 5pm. Please make sure you read the guidelines before contacting us for support.