Neon and Kodak are in the mood for love and are hoping to spread that love to 10 rising filmmakers courtesy of a new short film contest.
In partnership with Sean Baker and his “Anora” DP Drew Daniels, Neon and Kodak are launching a contest around the theme “Tell Us Your Love Story.” Inspired by the romantic comedy-drama vibe of “Anora,” the contest encourages rising filmmakers to submit detailed pitches for a short film under eight minutes they want to create around that theme. The pitches are due by midnight Pacific Time on October 31.
Ten filmmakers will receive Kodak Super 8 or 16mm film stock, mentorship from Baker and Daniels, and in-kind product and services from Kodak, Neon, and ARRI Rental. Kodak and Neon will host a special screening event for the finished films in early 2025. Enter the contest here.
This is yet another example of how Baker is helping to give back to rising filmmakers. He’ll also be giving the keynote chat at IndieWire’s Future of Filmmaking Summit in Los Angeles on November 2, for which tickets are available now.
Purchase early bird tickets for Future of Filmmaking Summit with Sean Baker Keynote Chat here.
Baker’s own filmmaking career is one of scrappiness and grit — and an enduring perseverance to tell stories his own way, no matter the odds against him. That’s resulted in some of the most acclaimed films of the past few years, including “The Florida Project,” “Red Rocket,” and now the Palme d’Or-winning “Anora.” He’s perfectly positioned to help offer guidance to up-and-coming filmmakers.
“We’re very excited to offer emerging filmmakers the opportunity to create a short cinematic love story with support from Kodak, Neon, ARRI Rental and the exceptional Sean Baker and Drew Daniels,” said Vanessa Bendetti, Head of Motion Picture and Entertainment and Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. “The contest reflects Kodak’s long- held commitment to supporting the next generation of creators, and Neon is an important partner to Kodak. Neon’s artist-first approach honors their filmmakers’ creative visions, including the preference to shoot on film.”
Filmmakers who’ve been selected will be notified by December 4 with production expected to start shortly thereafter.
Purchase tickets to hear Sean Baker’s Keynote Chat at IW’s Future of Filmmaking Event here.
