Four new local feature films are set to hit screens across Victoria, made possible by VicScreen’s inaugural program Originate Features – creating more opportunities for new voices in the screen industry.
The Originate Features initiative champions new work and builds the careers of emerging writers and directors from backgrounds that are traditionally underrepresented in the screen industry and is part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $191.5 million VICSCREEN strategy.
Last year the initiative supported Victorian writers and directors to turn their concepts and drafts into production and market-ready scripts, while also offering mentorships and placements to support creators to build their skills. Four feature films that were developed through the initiative will now be fully financed and greenlit in partnership with SBS, Arenamedia and Screen Australia.
The successful projects are:
- Into the Blue by Writer/Director Katie Found and Writer Markella Kavenagh
- Sweet Milk Lake by Writer/Director Harvey Zielinski and Producer Rosie Lourde
- Pasa Faho by Writer/Director Kalu Oji and Producers, Mimo Mukii and Ivy Mutuku
- Leviticus by Writer/Director Adrian Chiarella and Producer Hannah Ngo.
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Investment through VicScreen will support two projects to head into production by June 2024, with the remaining two projects kickstarting production the following financial year – creating more than 300 new jobs for screen workers through these projects.
Following the success of Originate Features, the initiative is now focusing on television, today marking the launch of Originate Series – a new talent and skills development program for Victorian writers looking to propel their careers in television.
Eight aspiring early-career to mid-career writers will be selected to undertake masterclasses and paid professional development opportunities, mentored by experienced TV series writers, producers, and mentors.
In a groundbreaking partnership, participants will also complete the renowned eight-month online screenwriting program delivered by University of California (UCLA) School of Theatre, Film and Television, starting in October 2023.
“Through VicScreen’s targeted initiatives, we are providing a major career launchpad for new voices who will build their careers and help shape the future of our screen industry,” Minister for Creative Industries Steve Dimopoulous said.
“We are proud to support these incredible feature films that were developed through Originate Features and we look forward to seeing the small screen stories that emerge from the new Originate Series stream.”
Originate Series is now open for applications from Victorian writers, closing Tuesday 11 July. To apply or for more information, visit: vicscreen.vic.gov.au.