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Bangladeshi filmmakers get Hollywood training in virus lockdown


Published : 18 May 2020 10:31 PM | Updated : 06 Sep 2020 08:52 PM

Twelve young filmmakers of Bangladesh have received virtual masterclass from the Hollywood script writers, directors, and producers as part of the US embassy’s programme amid the coronavirus lockdown.

The embassy said the masterclass kicked off a year-long partnership with those Bangladeshi filmmakers to promote “free expression in the arts, economic diversification, and greater cooperation between the people of Bangladesh and the US”.

Five ‘Arts Envoys’ from the US entertainment industry engaged with them from May 11-19 programme to explore independent film development strategies and best practices and the challenges facing filmmakers in Bangladesh.

The Global Media Makers (GMM) program, overseen by non-profit organization Film  Independent, organised the masterclass.The Envoys were Hollywood script writers, directors, and producers Javier Fuentes-León, Jim Young, Ruth Atkinson, Tatiana Kelly, and cinema expert Maria Bozzi from Film Independent. 

The virtual masterclass provided 12 Bangladeshi filmmakers and visual storytellers the opportunity to discuss ongoing projects and receive feedback from the experts and classmates; develop new project ideas; and practice pitching their projects, the embassy said. 

Sessions throughout the class also covered production, story structure, and a case study of the challenges facing the independent filmmakers. 

GMM chose the 12 participants in consultation with The Bangladesh Short Film Forum, Khona Talkies, the International Film Initiative of Bangladesh, Dhaka Doc Lab, Box Officer, and Chaibal.

The Global Media Makers (GMM) program, launched in 2016, is an innovative mentorship program by Film Independent in partnership with the U.S. Department of State. 

Film Independent is a nonprofit arts organisation that champions independent film and supports a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation and uniqueness of vision.

The US Arts Envoy Program shares the best of the US arts community with the world to foster cross-cultural understanding and collaboration and to demonstrate shared values and aspirations.