This Friday and Saturday, June 11 and 12, the State Film Office will host its very first Film Finance and Distribution Conference. This free conference is open to all local filmmakers and will shine its focus on micro- and low-budget productions. If you’re hoping to get an independent film going here in the Land of Enchantment, this is a fine place to start. Panelists include reps from the New Mexico Taxation & Revenue Department and key NMSFO personnel. Friday’s topic will be “Maximizing Your New Mexico Film Incentives,” while Saturday’s topic will be “Film Financing & Distribution.” Certain select participants in Saturday’s session will be invited to take part in a practice film pitch session with producer Suzanne Lyons ( The Heart Is Deceitful Above All Things , Candy Stripers ). The two-day event will take place at the National Hispanic Cultural Center (1701 Fourth Street SW) in Albuquerque. To register, log on to nmfilm.com.
Reel World: Time Is Short For 48 Hours Time Is Short For 48 Hours
If you’re hoping to get involved in this year’s 48 Hour Film Project, you have until Monday, June 14, to register. Space is limited and filmmaking teams are being accepted on a first come, first served basis. If that’s not motivation enough: Early Bird registration rates of $135 increase to $155 after Monday. So get on the ball! All you need is a writer, a director, an editor, possibly a producer and a bunch of actors willing to write, shoot, edit and premiere a short film in just 48 short hours. International fame and fortune (possibly) await the winners. This year’s Albuquerque leg of the 48 Hour Film Project will kick off Friday, July 9.
Reel World: Cast Your Lot Cast Your Lot
Hallmark Hall of Fame is shooting one of its patented made-for-TV weepers here in New Mexico. There will be a casting call for the film—titled Let Them Shine —Saturday, June 12, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, June 13, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. This open casting call will take place at the Albuquerque Hilton (1901 University NE) in the Garden Room. Casting agents are seeking “all ages, all sizes, all ethnicities. Especially newborn babies and children.” Pay rate is $10 an hour for background talent and $12 an hour for stand-ins. If you cannot attend the casting call, you can send detailed information and photos to LetThemShine2010@gmail.com.
