The 6th edition of the programme is open for submissions from aspiring filmmakers across MENA. It enables participants to develop their projects into full feature scripts with the help of industry experts.
Red Sea Labs, an initiative by the Red Sea Film Foundation, has announced that registrations are now open for the sixth edition of its Lodge training programme. The Lodge is an annual creative and professional residency program that provides intensive training sessions to aspiring filmmakers from Saudi Arabia, the Arab region, Asia, and Africa. It is sponsored by Film AlUla, in partnership with the Torino Film Lab.
Submissions from Saudi Arabia will be open until November 7, 2024, while applications for Arab, African, and Asian projects will remain open until December 15, 2024.
The Lodge enables participants to develop their film projects into full feature scripts with the help of renowned industry experts, providing a comprehensive cinematic overview from idea to realisation. The programme will host five different workshops throughout the year, the first of which is dedicated to Saudi participants, with the remaining workshops addressing all participants.
The comprehensive programme further encompasses key industry skills, such as production, creative development, financing, sales, pitching, and marketing. Guided by veteran professionals in hands-on workshops, participants will hone their skills in cinematography, directing, editing, sound design, and beyond.
Elaborating on the programme, Ryan Ashore, Head of The Red Sea Labs, said: “At the Labs, we believe in filmmakers who dare to dream. We invite those with cinematic aspirations to submit their projects for a transformative opportunity to bring their vision to life. This is a chance to create stories that will endure, inspire, and resonate. We are looking for filmmakers who are ready to share their unique stories with the world.”
The Lodge participants will have the opportunity to pitch their projects at the Red Sea Souk during next year’s Red Sea International Film Festival, where they will have the chance to network with various world-renowned industry experts. Winners will be announced at the end of the Festival’s 5th edition in 2025, receiving valuable cash prizes.
Red Sea Labs is a key pillar in the Red Sea Film Foundation, it aims to empower filmmakers, writers, and industry professionals to achieve their creative vision through various mentorship programmes and cinematic education. Red Sea Labs focuses on fostering innovation, pushing the boundaries of storytelling, and encouraging creators and explore new possibilities. The Red Sea Labs have nurtured over 190 filmmakers and artists in their creative fields, and have supported the development of many feature films, which some have premiered in various festivals.
