FAQ
Q. How do I apply?
A. Applications will open on August 15 for our Writer’s Boot Camp and close November 10 for application to the FS2P Lab. Clicking the APPLY button will take you to the application form.
Q. What’s the Writer’s Boot Camp?
A. Over the years, we have noticed that scripts often need another pass or two before further development and that filmmakers are often playing catch-up during the lab - doing re-writes when they should be focusing their time on creating the materials they will need to move their projects forward. To help writers, we have created a Writer’s Boot Camp to run during the month of October, focusing on structure, character development and theme. If participants of the boot camp elect to apply to the FS2P Lab after the Boot Camp, they will be eligible to apply with no additional fees.
Q. Do you accept Pilots?
A. Yes, we are now accepting pilots. Writers who only want help with their scripts can come to the Writer’s Boot Camp. Pilot scripts have now become the preferred sample for writers looking to get staffed so this is a good option for writers looking to polish their pilot scripts. Filmmakers who intend to put together a package for a potential series - or intend to make their pilots or series - are eligible for the FS2P Lab.
Q. Who can apply?
A. We have opened the online zoom lab to both writer-directors and teams, e.g. writer, director and producer. While our goal is still to bring more women’s voices into the culture at large by equipping, supporting and connecting women filmmakers, we now also welcome men on teams on a case by case basis. And we are committed to supporting a variety of projects and a diverse community of filmmakers. The first film produced out of our program was by a differently abled filmmaker and our filmmakers are a gorgeous gumbo of all races and persuasions and abilities. Check out the “Our Filmmakers” page on this site to get a better idea. And contact us with any questions at fs2pnywift@gmail.com.
Q. How much does it cost?
A. Depending on when you apply, the application costs from $75-$130. The cost for the Writer’s Boot Camp is $150 for 4 two-hour sessions. The cost for the FS2P lab - an approximately* 6 month program - is $1350 per project for the program, payable in three or six installments. Payment in full before the first session discounts the fee by $50. (Should more than one team member wish to participate during certain sections of the curriculum, they will be able to do so at a discounted rate - contact us to discuss at fs2pnywift@gmail.com.) Please note, there will be materials fees for the The Numbers section, including scheduling and budgeting software and a text.
The length of the FS2P Lab depends on the pace of work and the scheduling of our Producers Panel. Some projects and filmmakers take a bit more time. This is why the program “end date” is flexible.
Q. How are filmmakers chosen?
A. Applicants submit the finished feature script or series pilot they wish to develop in the lab and a sample short directed by the writer-director or team director - you will find details on the FS2P ONLINE page on this site and on the Film Freeway site where you will apply. If an applicant’s work shows that she is ready to make the feature or pilot submitted, she is invited for a chat with the Director about goals for the lab.
Q. When you say "collaborative" what exactly do you mean?
A. You will read everyone’s script and as we work our way through loglines, synopses, pitches, lookbooks, budgets, reels and websites, you will give and receive constructive feedback at every session. You will also make wonderful friends and artistic partnerships and support each other as we do what it takes to get our films made.
Q. How many filmmakers are in each cohort?
A. Approximately six to eight projects per cohort; we keep it small so that everyone can share their work each week and have the time and bandwidth to be very familiar with every project. We want all the filmmakers to know each other and be able to help one another.
Q. When and where do you meet?
A. The lab will be conducted in online zoom sessions. We meet Saturday afternoons from 2-5ish pm Eastern to accommodate a variety of time zones, as filmmakers are now participating from all over the world.
Q. If I don't live in the New York area, can I still apply?
A. Yes! This is one of the many advantages of the online zoom format. We now have filmmakers participating from all over the world.
Q. It sounds like a big commitment. How much time does this take?
A. It’s a huge commitment – by joining this lab, you’re committing to make your first feature. As for how much time it takes, I’ll let the filmmakers answer: “You’ll work your ass off.” But at the end? Instead of a long to-do list, you’ll have everything you need to move forward.