First Time Feature Filmmaking for Disabled talent

Funded by ScreenSkills Film Skills Fund, 104 Films are offering First time feature filmmaking, a targeted diversity initiative supporting the continuing professional development of 8 emerging disabled writers, directors and producers.

This programme is designed to turbo-charge careers and provide a vital step up for the disabled filmmakers of the future. We will offer these aspiring feature filmmakers networking, project development and creative support to get their first feature films off the ground.

This programme is supported by the ScreenSkills Film Skills Fund with contributions from UK film productions.

Who it's for

This programme is open to UK-based first-time feature film directors, writers and producers who identify as D/deaf, disabled and neurodiverse.

We especially want to encourage applications from those with non-visible disabilities – mental health issues like stress, depression or anxiety, autism, dyslexia and the hard of hearing. You may have a disability and not realise it, you may also feel uncomfortable identifying as disabled, but 104 films will welcome everyone who discloses to us they have a disability. It is important to remember that most disabilities are not visible.

This is not a programme for new entrants and applicants will be expected to have some industry experience -perhaps a BFI Network short film, or equivalent achievement in another artform such as theatre. They must also identify as disabled under the Equality Act 2010.

N.B We are also currently inviting applications for First-time Feature Filmmakers of marginalised genders. Please choose whichever course is most appropriate for you, please do not apply for both. 

What it covers

Using their own projects as a case study, participants will get a comprehensive overview of what to expect when making their first feature film. We expect participants to create important industry links to move their careers forward.

Previous courses have included sessions with BFI, Film4, Kodak, Netflix U.K. film and BBC films.

This course would normally cost participants £1500, but thanks to funding from ScreenSkills, is currently being offered free to particpants.

We understand that sometimes your plans have to change, but if you fail to attend without letting us know we reserve the right to request reimbursement of costs.

How to apply

Click 'apply now' to submit your application for a place on this course via the 104 Films website.