The Walt Disney Company is offering directors from underrepresented communities the chance to “present diverse perspectives through the production of original, live-action short films for proposed initial exhibition on the upcoming streaming service Disney+.” The studio is now accepting applications for its first Disney Launchpad: Shorts Incubator, a press release announced.
Beginning in February 2020, the seven-month Incubator will see up to six filmmakers team up with creative executive mentors from Disney in order “to create original films that celebrate the inaugural theme of ‘Discover’ and align with the Disney brand values.” The program will be based at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California.
Participants will develop their scripts, take their films through pre-production, principal photography, and post-production, and attend professional and storytelling classes led by the American Film Institute.
Shorts made during the program will be considered for Disney+ content and will be kept in mind for future development.
“At The Walt Disney Studios, we believe that great stories come from everywhere, and we are committed to telling inclusive stories and working with filmmakers who bring diverse perspectives to the table,” said Co-Chairman Alan Bergman. “The Disney Launchpad gives us a platform to empower a new generation of filmmakers to share original stories that resonate with our global audience and reflect the world we live in.”
“We know the best films and content are those that showcase the diversity of the wider world,” agreed Julie Ann Crommett, Vice President, Multicultural Audience Engagement. “Launchpad recognizes the importance of diversity in front of and behind the camera by bringing together the most talented filmmakers with the world-class talent and resources of The Walt Disney Company.”
Applications are due July 2, 2019, at 12:00 p.m. PT. Up to 15 finalists will be notified by October, and up to six participants will be chosen by December.
You can find more information and apply for the Shorts Incubator over on the program’s website.
