YOUTH FILMS INTERNATIONAL

Words To Live By: Conan, Radiolab and (Quite Possibly) The Greatest Commencement Speech of 2011

2011-06-17T10:00:00.022-04:00

It's not hard to be inspired at the end of the week, especially in summer. On weekends you get to sleep in, not wake-up-early-just-to-spend-an-hour-commuting; you eat leisurely meals with loved ones instead of scarf an apple on the subway or coffee in your car; you surf to your hearts content, read, play, relax - dare I say, live! There are, hopefully, parts of your week that you love and look forward to with real enthusiasm, but inevitably, we all have parts of our weeks or months that we loathe. That's not gonna change, honey. Obvs, if you can cop a better attitude about those distateful bits, all the better. But, if the grating boss or the migraines aren't going to disappear as quickly as you'd like, don't despair.

Two Steps to Happiness

Step 1: Take my advice amid all of this sea of great advice - and really think about the parts of your week you look forward to, that excite you and never tire you no matter how many hours you have to spend. Your love of organzing, or your talent for research, or your way to get people to see things your way are your God-given gifts.

Step 2: Find a way to create more of this.

Celebrity Wisdom

Part Five of our Inspiration Week series features two, that's right TWO commencement speeches which are perfect complements to one another. My absolute faves of our little series.

The first is someone you may not know - Robert Kruwich. I was introduced to NPR's Radiolab a few years ago over lunch in NYC with a colleague and former editor at Popular Mechanics magazine when we were geeking out over the elusive genius of being able to tell a compelling story that has science at its heart. It's harder than it sounds. Good story telling is rare because it's hard.

The second and last is the brill Conan O'Brien. He's so enjoyable. He's hilarious in his unique Conan way. Self-depracating and brazen...and remember, he's not a chump. He was editor of his schools news paper, as in, The Harvard Lampoon.

Just a few days ago he gave the commencement speech to the Ivy League grad's at Dartmouth College. Watch Conan's speech, it's a riot. They're calling it the Greatest Commencement Speech Ever. End your week on a high note. (p.s. Conan seriously needs some sleep, he's looking a bit tired.)

Enjoy your weekend. Peace Out.

ROBERT KRULWICH

Robert Krulwich, co-producer of WNYC’s fantstic Radiolab, author of the ever-illuminating Krulwich Wonders and winner of a Peabody Award for broadcast excellence, is one of the best science writers working today. Last week, he addressed the graduating class at Berkeley’s School of Journalism and made some remarkably poignant points about passion and the future of journalism. No video yet, but you can listen here or read the full transcript here — and I can’t recommend enough that you do.

CONAN O'BRIEN

Watch YFI Inspiration Week: Part 4 with Jeff Bezos

Watch YFI Inspiration Week: Part 3 with Steve Jobs

Watch YFI Inspiration Week: Part 2 with Meryl Streep

Watch YFI Inspiration Week: Part 1 with JK Rowling

(thanks brainpickings)

Words To Live By: Jeff Bezos

2011-06-16T12:00:00.010-04:00

I have a Kindle.

One of those new-fangled e-readers that a few years ago seemed icky and cold, somehow betraying the heart and essence of the book-lovers since the beginning of time. I love my Kindle, but I do occasionally miss books. What I've realised though, is much like other computer based conveniences, what I miss are the aesthetics. I miss seeing the colourful art of an array of books on my shelves. Now when I go into a book store I get a little nostalgic, I love running my eyes and my hands over the latest, the classics, the books I will never buy but want to pick up and peruse anyway. I like examining the cover artwork. I miss trading books.

But, the essence of books is really in what it inspires in your imagination, and that doesn't change whether it's a dog-eared paperback or a Kindle. The upsides are things like not having to think about 'which' book to bring with you on a trip or to the beach - you just grab it and throw into into your bag. All 1500 books included. I like being able to lay in bed and hold it with one hand and click the page forward with my thumb without disturbing my perfect position with the pillow just so. (Needless side note: One of my pet peeves has always been the unevenness of the weight distribution of a book as you go from the beginning to the end and the pages add up. It's impossible to hold comfortably with one hand!). Let's be honest, Kindle appeals to my get-it-now 21st century way of life. If I'm bored with the current book I'm reading, or say, I finished it at 1:00 a.m., I can click -click on my Kindle and have another book in my hands by 1:02 a.m.

All thanks to Jeff Bezos.

Bezos is another self-made billionaire, who founded Amazon.com the online bookstore (he was 30) in the 1990's. Remember when it first came out? Everyone was petrified of ordering online - giving out your credit card number on the internet??? Who's gonna do that?!!!

Today Amazon.com is the biggest online retailer in the world with profits in the billions each year.

*Interesting side note - Amazon was originally called Cadabra.

Something else you may not know about Jeff Bezos is he is one of the big players in the race to commercialize human space travel. I've been trying to get an interview with him for years, but his PR wall is fairly impenetrable. He started a company called Blue Origin which you can read about here. They're based in New Mexico, and their website says they're hiring if you got the goods.

Jeff was also the keynote at his alma mater Princeton last year. It's short and sweet and like him, not frilly or over the top. One takeaway I really liked from it was this:

"Cleverness is a gift, kindness is a choice."

Enjoy your Thursday dose of inspiration.

Jeff Bezos, Founder, Amazon (Princeton, 2010)

Watch YFI Inspiration Week: Part 3 with Steve Jobs

Watch YFI Inspiration Week: Part 2 with Meryl Streep

Watch YFI Inspiration Week: Part 1 with JK Rowling

Words to Live by: Steve Jobs

2011-06-15T12:00:00.009-04:00

I remember the first time I heard Steve Jobs' name. It was more than a decade ago and I just remember thinking 'Jobs' was one of those funny last names that are also nouns. Deep, I know. At the time I was hanging out with a lot of Silicone Valley-type computer programmer geeks (far less mainstream than they are today) and just thought it was all very complicated gobblydegook. Clearly, my visionary days had yet to begin.

In terms of advice for the future, I don't know about you, but I want to hear what Steve Jobs has to say. This dude has an interesting back story. Check out his Wikipedia page here. I had no idea. Did you know he was adopted? He started a little business called "Apple" when he was 21. Ten years later we had the Mac. He's also Buddhist.

Oh, and HE INVENTED THE iPhone!! Something that's changed technology and how we live. Dude is smart. I like this quote from him

"Great things in business are not done by one person, they are done by a team of people"

The man has some great words for grads. Check it out. Be inspired.

Steve Jobs, Founder Apple, Pixar (Standford University, 2005)

Watch Inspiration Week Part 2 Meryl Streep
Watch Inspiration Week Part 1 JK Rowling

Words To Live By: Meryl Streep

2011-06-14T19:53:00.007-04:00

Happy Tuesday.

If you've come by for more inspiration, we've got it. This is day two of a week-long inspirationfest. And while it's hard to follow the amazing JK Rowling's words, today's inspiration comes courtesy of a legend.

Now, Meryl is one of my favourites. I will watch her in any movie. Come on - have you seenSilkwood? Sofie's Choice? Oldies - before you were born if you are in high school - but so, so good. Kramer vs. Kramer (Just bought it. Solid gold.), Doubt, The Devil Wears Prada, Julie & Julia... you get the picture. (Let's not talk about Mama Mia!) The woman is brilliant. It comes from within. From experience. She's not "Hollywood" the way most show-biz people are. She's a role model in her candidness and silliness and ... confidence.

She's someone I'd listen to when she's doling out advice about the future, about success, about being a woman, especially if I'm 21 years old and thinking I'm the **** because I have a degree from a fancy university.

She's funny. She get's a laugh with just a look. This one's a longer one, but it'll seem like 5 minutes.

Enjoy. Keep sending me those thoughts on Convocation Speeches and advice to the young 'uns.

Kramer vs. Kramer 1979

Meryl Streep, Actress - Columbia University Commencement Speech, 2010

Watch Inspiration Week Part 1 JK Rowling

Grad Season & Words To Live By

2011-06-13T09:00:00.007-04:00

There's something universally compelling about commencement speeches.

I've sat through a few of my own, a few of my siblings, nieces, nephews and family friends. For some reason, no matter how painfully dull or mumbly they are, I still kinda like them. (I feel the same about children's concerts. So frickin' cute.) I was my schools valedictorian, but I'm pretty sure the only people who found my speech the least bit interesting are people I was related to or graduated with. At least I didn't mumble.

A good commencement speech is important. A touchstone. A point of pride or in the worst cases, embarrassment. Sometimes schools invite back famous alum to address the freshly minted graduates. That doesn't mean they have anything particularly meaningful to say, but occasionally they do - see below.

When you hear a truly inspiring, eloquent, relevant commencement speech it gives you chills. It wells you up with hope and faith and quite likely tears, and touches your future self in a way that enables you to take it with you. Those speeches are rare, of course. They contain wisdom, humour and a firm affectionate scruff-of-the-neck warning. They often include sage advice such as 'embrace your failures' or 'try not to think about how much debt you've accumulated before you have your first job.'

Today, and all this week, as graduation looms and many of you are contemplating your future I have 5 wonderful timeless commencement speeches. It's your normal dose of Inspiration Monday to last you all week. Even if graduation has been in the rearview mirror for a long time, you should watch. I've watched them all. They're fantastic and worth watching over and over.

Do you remember your commencement speech? (For the record, I don't.) What would you say to students if you were invited to inspire and advise? Do you have a memorable commencement speech story?

Happy Monday, and Happy Graduation. Be Inspired.

JK Rowling, Author, Harry Potter (Harvard 2008)

Tomorrow Part 2 of Inspiration Week Commencement Speeches - A famous, brilliant Oscar winning actress. Guesses?

Inspiration Monday:: Young Victoria

2011-05-23T13:19:00.007-04:00

Today is Victoria Day in Canada. A national holiday and long weekend that they say, is the 'unofficial' start to summer. It's the first of the warm weather long weekends. We dust off our sandals, unlock our cottages, plant our annuals and revel in surviving another Canadian spring. (Second only to surviving a Canadian winter.). There are fireworks.

It's come to my mind that we are as a society so desperate for extra days off that we quite regularly forget or push aside the reason for holidays. As a country our roots are still rather young, but they trace back to the British monarchy. Victoria Day in fact predates Canadian Confederation.

Victoria Day honours the inimitable Queen Victoria. Ladies, if you are in need of a strong role model, check her out! She was wise, strong and savvy and had to fight for the throne, which she rightfully claimed at the age of 18.
I can't say it enough: Don't underestimate teenagers.

Read more about her remarkable influence and reign here and here.

I recently watched the movie The Young Victoria - twice - rare for me. But TYV had the perfect mix of ingredients - wonderfully delivered by writers and actors and based on a true story. Throw in the unrivalled glamour, dysfunction and pomp of royalty and it's more than I can resist. Watch the movie if you can. Heck, buy it.

Since then, in the spirit of Youth Films International, and in honour of Victoria Day , I watched documentary chronicling her life. It's the perfect Inspiration Monday story.

If you're a teenager, go ahead, rule the world.

(BBC) Timewatch: Young Victoria.

"The story of how an unassuming little girl rose to be the most powerful woman in the world. At her birth few believed Princess Victoria would ascend the throne, but a number of untimely deaths and the failure of her uncles to father any children meant that Victoria became heiress to the British throne. The battle between her and her mother the Duchess of Kent, however, was to become a fierce maternal struggle, as the duchess schemed to share in the power and riches that would one day be Victoria's."

Part One:

Part Two:

Dear Sixteen Year Old You

2011-05-07T00:59:00.002-04:00

Simple. Honest. Direct. Funny. Serious. Well lit.

Nicely done. You agree?

From the Mailbag:: Casual Fridays

2011-05-06T09:00:00.004-04:00

From time to time I will get asked questions by students, friends, or people I've met five minutes ago about my life as a Discovery Channel producer. Today I'm going to reach into the YFI mailbag and pull out a couple of those gems.

It really is an incredible job seeing sights and meeting people you would not otherwise have the privilege. On a science show most of the time people are very down to earth and grateful that anyone has taken an interest in their work...but we get the big guns too and most of the time even the celebs are pretty cool. It's usually their handlers are the major pain in my butt. In a couple of months I'll be heading to Thailand to film elephants and a myriad other exciting subjects and stories. I also hope to share some Youth Films teaching while I'm there. It's a beautiful part of the world that I'm looking forward to exploring for the first time. If you've got some travel tips to share, bring it on!

Now, as promised those mailbag goodies!

So, do you produce the whole Discovery Channel?

Yes, that's right I do. Each week the Myth Busters, Teutels, Stephen Hawking and I have a Skype date and I tell them to pull up their socks

and hurry up and send in their expense reports.

(That may be a slight exaggeration. )

Do you know the dudes from Myth Buster's?

Not yet. It's on my bucket list. (not really)

Stephen Hawking?

As a matter of fact...

What's this B-roll you're always talking about?

"B-roll" is pretty much anything we shoot (with our camera) that does not involve someone talking on camera. For some reason there is no "A-roll" or "C-roll" in our jargon. Just the B-roll. A-roll would be the on camera inte

rviews, but don't ever call it that. You'll lose your cred.

Happy Casual Friday. Have a great weekend. See you on Motivation Monday.

Mail your mailbag questions to info@youthfilmsinternational.com

*Interviewing Prof. Stephen Hawking, Cambridge University. Career highlight.

Tech Tuesday: Underwater Slo-mo HD Camera + Surfer = Gorgeous

2011-04-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

The Roman philosopher Seneca once said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” This clip from the BBC documentary “South Pacific” shows Rudi Diesel capturing a once in a lifetime shot of surfer Dylan Longbottom in a massive 12-foot wave using a Typhoon HD4 high speed camera. It’s the first shot of its kind ever recorded, and one of the most amazing surfing shots you’ll ever see.

Here's the shot you'll want to watch over and over.

Link

Inspiration Monday :: The scary first step

2011-04-25T09:00:00.005-04:00

I recently jumped out of a airplane, and let me tell you there is no scarier step in your life than the one that leads to a straight down free fall at 190 kilometres an hour from 13,000 feet (that's 4 km) up.

THAT is a big step with no turning back. Of course it was a blast, and turned out to be one of the best, craziest experiences of my life.

But, it never would have happened without that all important 'step' out of my comfort zone, aka a perfectly good airplane.

Making a short documentary is far less scary that skydiving, as you probably could have guessed. So if you've ever wanted to, here's a little more inspiration to for you, below.

Teens are makings impressive documentaries all over the world.

If you're in high school and want to learn how to make a documentary, take that first step, email us. It could turn out to be one of the best experiences of your life!

Teen's Documentary on 'Derby Girls' to Be Screened at Seattle Film Festival

Some people go to the roller derby and think it's fun, albeit somewhat quirky. Hastings teen Lucy Adams recently went to the roller derby and thought, "This would make a great documentary."

A junior at Convent of the Sacred Heart in Greenwich, CT—Adams attended the Hastings Public Schools until high school—she is enrolled for the second year in a broadcast journalism course. Around the time her teacher assigned this year's documentary film project, Adams and her friends visited the roller derby—and she was immediately fascinated by the women who compete.

"I never realized how big roller derby was," she said. "There are more than 30,000 female skaters worldwide. There are celebrities who compete, but many of them have normal day jobs. And then at night they participate in the roller derby."

Her final product, Derby Girls, has been selected to be screened at the largest student film festival in the world, The National Film Festival for Talented Youth (NFFTY), held each spring in Seattle, WA.

"I hadn't even heard of the festival," Adams said. "My teacher found me in the hallway the day before the submission deadline and said I should enter."

Adams’ documentary was one of only seven chosen to be shown out of entries from 25 countries and 40 states—most of which were produced by college and film school students.

It took about three weeks to make," said Adams, who does all of her own editing. "I interviewed players, spectators and people who volunteer at bouts." Her sources were members of the Gotham Girls Roller Derby team of New York, including "Margaret Thrasher," "Razzle Deazzle" and "Roletta Lynn."

Derby Girls isn't Adams' first film, though, by any means. Last year she produced a film about homeless people who live in Grand Central Station—"It was tricky finding people who would agree to be interviewed for that," she said—and recently took her camera on a trip to Patagonia with her family, interviewing guides about the effects of receding glaciers on tourism.

Adams, her family and her journalism teacher plan to attend the festival from April 28 to May 1 in Seattle.

"I definitely think I want to pursue film-making and journalism in the future," said Adams, who is just embarking on the college search process. "It's a lot of fun."

(Link to story here.)

Nerd Tuesday: Love and Tips from the Techies

2011-04-12T16:49:00.016-04:00

Dwight Schrute, Office nerd

At some point being a nerd became ...cool.

These days people you may not have previously considered 'nerd worthy' wear their Nerd label's with pride. I sometimes wonder if the real geeks and nerds - the Dwight Schrute variety - (I'm told there's a difference, but let's not quibble) ... the truly 'uncool' ones feel infringed upon. Y'know, feel that their nerdy status is tainted by people who are cool and good looking and rich, but use the nerd thing as a status symbol.

Don't laugh, 'Nerd' is a status symbol. It's shorthand for smart, current and clever. And, who could blame the nerd-posers for wanting to be in that clique? In the nerd-house these days we have your billionaire geniuses like Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, and billionaire-movie makers like James Cameron.

And we have nerd conventions like NAB. James Cameron was one of the celeb's to take centre stage today at the tech-fest in Las Vegas. Once a year for decades now, the National Association of Broadcasters sets up tech nirvana on and off The Strip and has become THE go-to event for the entertainment technology development. In previous years NAB's been the red carpet event for unveiling amazing movie-making toys from High Def cameras to digital movie houses, to the famous Red camera and of course, 3D.

And it was there that Cameron made this announcement: All Movie Theatres will be 3D Within Five Years. Check out the story here. According to the man behind the jaw-dropping Avatar, the 2D viewing experience will be considered 0ld-school in theatres by 2016. Obviously, this will have a huge impact on the industry on just about every level.

You buying it? Or is every movie worth making in 3D? I'm not sure if my eyeballs or brain can handle that much 3D.

Maybe I'm just not cool enough to be considered a nerd.

Thoughts?

Soccer on the Water: Based on a true story :: Inspiration Monday

2011-04-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

We all need a little inspiration, and, we might need a little more on Monday's. Welcome to YFI's Inspiration Monday's. Watch this incredible story....

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Cate Blanchett Launches Youth Film Initiative

2011-04-08T13:28:00.008-04:00

Cate Blanchett, one of the best actresses in the world has picked up on the importance of Youth making documentaries and is getting behind it in a real way. Make a doc. Be the change.

Start thinking about your Youth Films International doc. What important issue would you want to showcase? Leave a comment.

(Hello? Is that you?)

2011-04-05T13:52:00.008-04:00

A big hellooo Youth Films Followers!

I know it's been silence on the radio for a while. Thanks for hanging around! I'm not sure what is in the air these days but I have been getting emails from so many former YFI students lately! It's such a treat. Today I got another call from my former student Shilpi. (Thanks for the love, girl!) It has roused me from my work and nudged me blinking into the daylight! Glad to know we've had such a positive impact on your lives, career choices and confidence.

What now?

Rest assured, the popular YFI Documentary Workshops are alive and well. There will be more YFI 2011 news coming your way. This has been a year to recalibrate and bring in some new themes, people, rules and ramp it up for the next session. I'd love your ideas, feedback and suggestions for what to include in future workshops. What is your favourite way to learn? As I have always taught, "doing" is a linear process, but "creating" is a very non-linear process, so go ahead and throw some non-linear ideas at me. Please stay in touch, keep the emails and phone calls coming. It's encouraging to know you still think of us. It'd also be great to get your friends, teachers, students and anyone with an interest in learning how to make a documentary to "Like" our Facebook page (on the left) or follow us www.twitter.com/youthfilms

'Til next time!

Fran

(Lead On, Giver.)

2010-10-21T16:35:00.021-04:00

It is every man's obligation to put back into the world at least the equivalent of what he takes out of it.

- Albert Einstein

Over the years we have longed and wished we could give a tax receipt to our generous donors to return the favour of their generosity, as well as to encourage anyone who plans to donate part of their income to charity anyway, to send it our way. Well that time has arrived! We have just about finalized the banking details and within a week will have a way for you to donate online on our website! All donations received by year end will receive a charitable tax receipt for 2010. Here are some interesting articles to browse on how we give and reasons for you or your company to donate. Remember, giving to YFI means you are giving back your community by helping us give back to the community.

Single women bigger charity donors than men

Men, Women Give To Charity Differently, Says New Research

7 Reasons to Give More of Your Money To Charity

A humble thank you to all of our supporters - financial, corporate, creative, in-kind, and moral - for helping Youth Films continue to grow to support today's youth in pursuing their creative dreams. It is our way of following Mr. Einstein's sage advice. You can expect an email in the coming days and weeks if you have previously participated in our free student workshops, or have personally expressed interest in financially supporting Youth Films International. Youth Films International is a non-profit organization (with official charitable status) that offers Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking workshops to students 16 + in downtown Toronto and the surrounding region. Under the passionate leadership of award winning Discovery Channel Producer Frances MacKinnon, students are given a mini-production company experience like no other. Students work in teams of 2-4 and are taught by top level industry professionals how to plan, shoot and edit their very first short documentary. Our environment is one of mentoring, ethical filmmaking and future opportunity. Your donations make it possible to run our programs well, and share this opportunity with kids who frankly could use a bit more opportunity; those bright lights with great potential but no money. By donating to YFI, you are leading with your giving. Lead on, giver. Finally, a little teaser: We are making sweeping changes to YFI for 2011 - and I can honestly say they are very exciting. Can't wait to share with you! Soon! For more information or feedback please email: info@youthfilmsinternational.com “Your reputation is built not on what you receive, but what you give.”

(Fall Gala Update)

2010-09-13T14:29:00.011-04:00

Hello Youth Films students, friends and fans! Happy September!

How was summer? Are you TIFF-ing up a documentary storm? Back to school?

Friends, it has been a busy summer of meetings about the future of YFI, traveling the globe, filming and gearing up for the 2010-2011 Season of YFI. We couldn't be more excited! We'll be unveling more details about just what is coming around the bend!

This marks the entryway to our 4th season of teaching students how to make ethical, entertaining documentaries. Much is in the works to make our next series of workshops even more rewarding and amazing than ever. The next season of workshops will feature some incredible opportunities - but stricter entrance rules for applicants- so if you are interested in a future in documentaries, start thinking about it now. Application for the 2011 workshops can be found here.

To that end, we have decided to postpone this year's annual Fall Gala (previously scheduled for October 19th) as we are lining up something even better in the weeks and months ahead. Stay tuned for more!

If you are a high school teacher, student or community member interesed in hosting a Youth Films Internatioanal workshop, email me at info (at) youthfilmsinternational (dot) com

For more information on Youth Films workshops from past years, click here. We always love to get your feedback and letters!

More to come soon!

Summer Travels

Summer travels: Central Alberta Melbourne Beach, Florida

The Note

2010-06-25T11:51:00.023-04:00

(*editors note: apologies if you're seeing formatting nonsense. Despite best efforts, this blog doesn't want to keep one font for the whole post.)

I have always said that the teaching I do for Youth Films is really about inspiration. Obviously, it is not possible to teach beginners everything they need to know about documentary film making in six weeks. Nor is it possible to deconstruct the concept of ethics to young minds (or old ones). Mentoring is much easier to understand. The term may be new to some, but all ages understand the idea of support and guidance.

The idea of focusing on inspiration is simple and somehow genius at the same time. It's the magical connection between passion and understanding and confidence. And it seems to work. Each year a couple of students come in with a little flicker of a flame and find enough inspiration in our Youth Films International Intro to Docs workshops to grow that into something bigger. It's exciting and rewarding to also see those who continue to grow and make more mini-docs on their own beyond YFI. It's cool.

We're now in the planning stage of Cycle Four of YFI for 2010-11. But let me tell you about the first year. The first year was a whirlwind of learning. It all came from the gut and was driven by passion. I had no experience as a Teacher, so I decided not to try to be one. Just to inspire and guide, with some strict deadlines.

Soroosh was one of my first students. He was in grade 12 and stood out for lots of reasons. Smart, respectful, creative, self-motivated. He'd never made a doc before but his understanding of people and a natural ability to interview was fascinating. During the workshops he made a documentary about a community of Esperantists in Toronto who meet up regularly to chat and keep this obscure language alive. It was great.

I lost touch with Soroosh. Until a few weeks ago.

Soroosh wrote to say he's on a break from University for six months to volunteer at a children's home in Thailand. While he's there he's going to make a documentary, and maybe give the kids a camera to teach them how to tell their own story. It's a beautiful example of the spirit of YFI moving forward. I was so touched by his email. Here's an excerpt:

Hey Fran!

How are you? I've been checking up on the Youth Films International Blog and it's great to see how far you've taken this entire project. I'm really proud to have been part of it all! I want to thank for inspiring me to make films. I recently made another short doc for a local film festival here in Waterloo. You cna see it here if you like: In July, I'll be heading to Thailand to volunteer at a children's home. It's located in a small village seven hours away from Bangkok. The organization I'm working with is called Baan Unrak, and their doing some fantastic things for the community over there. I'll be staying with them for six months. Thank you for being so patient with me and for pushing me when I needed it the most. You've unleashed the filmmaker inside of me! ~Soroosh

You can follow Soroosh's blog here. Who knows where this adventure could lead him? If you wish to donate to this project please contact him directly. If you want to send him one or more video camera's for his doc project, please do.

One last thing to check this out. I love this idea they've come up with. How many of us have books in boxes, shelves and drawers we'll never read again, despite your vows? It's good Feng Shui to clear out that clutter. Send them to people who really need them. Here are the details from his latest email.

"One of the volunteers here, Paul, is trying to set up a book shop in the village. We'd be selling English books, mostly aimed towards the tourists that come in here during the summer. If we get this up and running, we would be generating some income for the Children's Home

... What is missing in the shop is a few shelves on the wall offering books for sale to these backpackers and indeed anyone else seeking a good read. We need to raise enough money to purchase the first consignment/supply of books from our supplier and from there get the project up and running - this is where you can help! If you would like to help out and donate to this project please follow this link to donate http://www.baanunrak.org/donatepp.html Even a small donation would help enormously! There is no other major book seller in town so we'd like to jump on this opportunity as quickly as possible but require the funds to do so.

So go ahead and de-clutter, send some books to some great people if you are able. You'll feel better.

My point in sharing this letter is just... you never know what can happen. Amazing where our paths lead us. Becoming a good story teller, a good film maker requires life experience.

Inspiring, non?

How To Smooch A Crocodile: Notes From The Field

2010-06-20T15:11:00.005-04:00

My job is almost always a combination of fun, frustrations and exhaustion.

Here's a prime example of the Fun:

Mexican Biologist Luis Ortiz has caught this baby croc that was attacked by an adult just weeks ago, had cosmetic surgery (by Luis's veterinarian wife) to save his eyeball, and now is tucked away in a makeshift 'crocodile sanctuary' with 10 other wild crocs. Luis's love of the crocodiles and other animals in the local ecosystem is captivating. We were walking around among the crocs (me mostly terrified, and him laughing and calm) in an enclosed space. Among the trees providing shade - a deadly poisonous one he casually mentioned not to get anywhere near. Of course we had to walk directly by it to not step on a sleepy reptile. It's hard to decide in the moment if you are being a chicken, or wisely cautious. Did not end up as crocodile lunch and, hey, I kissed a crocodile.

Tax Receipts and Charity

2010-06-16T12:22:00.010-04:00

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
~Winston Churchill

I'm excited to announce that Youth Films Intl. has crossed a major hurdle that will ensure a strong future for for this non-profit. A charitable (both officially and unofficially!) organization has extended their status to include Youth Films. This has huge impact on us.

It means that we can accept individual and corporate donations and issue a tax receipt; it also means that we are eligible for funding from dozens, even hundreds, more foundations, government grants and bursaries that require a charitable designation.

Anyone who has casually inquired or valiantly tried to chug-chug down that road to obtain charitable status can attest that it is a daunting, expensive, complicated and rather discouraging process. We tried, with the generous help of several friends, legal firms, etc but in the end the cost was exorbitant for a small volunteeer-based entity like YFI.

It's also been a great reminder that projects like Youth Films simply cannot operate alone. We need community, government and corporate support to thrive and to offer quality, fun, long-lating and profound learning to the next generation of film makers.

This Company (which you'll know about soon enough) has galloped to our rescue with enthusiastic support and belief in what we are doing to ensure Change Is Happening and will continue to happen in the lives of young people with dreams of being documentary film makers and journalists.

AND IT GETS EVEN BETTER!

As the whirlwind of this good news set in just a few weeks ago, I rushed off to film stories in Mexico, and was thrilled beyond belief to discover, while flitting between the jungle and the whale sharks, that we received our first donation directly because of our charitable status!! If the importance of charitable status wasn't already made, this immediately confirmed it.

A heartfelt and giant thank you from all past and future students, mentors and volunteers at YFI as we already start looking towards 2011 and 2012 for exciting growth.

I won't keep you in the dark for too long about this mystery Charity. Once the banking has been set up, we'll let you know shortly how you can donate to Youth Films International, and how to receive your tax receipt.

It's not all about tax receipts of course. If you would like to be involved with Youth Films as a Mentor, or if you're a student interested in one of our workshops in 2011, please contact us at info@youthfilmsinternational.com.

Sincerely,

Frances MacKinnon
Executive Director
Youth Films International

YFI Founder and Exec Director Frances MacKinnon Interviwed

2010-05-14T09:20:00.003-04:00

Catch the interview today, with Daily Planet's lovely co-host Ziya Tong live streamed to www.discoverychannel.ca.

Ziya and I will be talking to students and future scientists in Winnipeg from our Toronto studio as part of the Canadian Coalition of Women in Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology.

Check it out!

That, as they say, is a wrap

2010-05-14T08:32:00.008-04:00

They really do say that, by the way. It's one of the most welcome phrases any production crew can hear.

The 2010 Youth Films International workshops have finished. Four teams made up of 12 students made a stellar push to the finish line on our last all day editing workshop, led by Apple Canada.

Thanks to the students who came out faithfully week after week, and for the most part everyone delivered what they were supposed. And a major shout out to the Mentors - Ian, Ryan, Kyle, Andrew, Philip, and Aaron) who were a huge help to the students and gave up their time with such great attitudes to help others. I'm super proud of you and hope I can help you down to the road as you begin your careers in tv and film.

So what's next? Well, there'll be more on that later but for now we're looking at the possibility of hosting a summer camp in Toronto, and the Fall Gala at the National Film Board in Toronto, where students work is showcased during an evening where friends, family and colleagues are welcome to attend.

I'm posting some photos from our last day. Stay tuned for more of what is happening in the exciting months to come and for previews of this years student documentaries, posted right here on this website.

If you are a student interested in attending a Youth Films 'Art of the Ethical Documentary' in Toronto or anywhere else in the country, please contact info@youthfilmsinternational.com. We just might come to your town!

For more information on just what we do at our documentary workshops, click here.

The final push:

The First Cut Is The Deepest

2010-04-25T10:23:00.008-04:00

We are one week from wrapping up the 3rd annual Youth Films International workshops. The pressure is mounting on these hopeful young film makers. Literally, their 'Final Cut' has to be handed in by the end of next week's workshop. Tick, tick...

I get a huge kick out of seeing the lights of recognition and satisfaction, and a bit of fear, as these first time documentary makers see their project coming together. This years group ranges in age from 13-17, with a group of amazing mentors that help support them along the way. Mentors have made a huge difference both to me, and to the teams in need of guidance and support.

Most of you haven't had the pleasure of taking part in these great workshops, so I'll paint you a picture.

If you peeked in on one our workshops you'd see me, sometimes a guest instructor, and a group of students sitting around tables in a big room at the National Film Board in the heart of downtown Toronto. It's interactive, we have break out sessions, practice interviewing. It looks self-contained. But, one thing is for certain, Youth Films would not exist or continue to thrive without the support of many community partnerships, like Henry's, Staples, National Film Board, Discovery Channel, and Apple Canada, to name a few. (**editors note: We always welcome further community participation. Please contact us at info@youthfilmsinternational.com to get involved)

By week five (this week) students know what they need: A solid story to tell, some B-roll and interviews to tell it, and the final step: editing. For reasons anyone who remembers their time trying to figure out editing software can attest to, editing looms in the distance as the last mountain to climb in the short six weeks we gather to make our documentaries. Until this year, students were on their own to provide their own computers, editing software, and to find their own support - technical, creative and otherwise in the midst of the final push. It was by all accounts the most challenging part, especially for those who'd never heard of time-code or time line.

At yesterdays all-day workshop, we had the privilege of learning the ropes from Apple's Mike Alfano. Mike is an excellent editor is his own right, and spends much of his time teaching young people how to edit using Apple products, like Final Cut or iMovie. Within moments (seriously, moments) Mike had everyone at ease and dispelled any myths about editing being hard to learn. There was dragging and dropping, and marking in's and outs all around; in other words they building their documentary. It was a happy, rather silent, sight.

Next Saturday is D-Day. All projects have to be finished and handed in, 100% complete. The words 'That's a wrap' will be uttered.

Youth Films International's partnership with Apple is new this year and we couldn't be more thrilled. A huge thank you to Mike and to Martin Byrne. We look forward to growing our partnership as YFI continues to expand.

Here's a few photos from the day.

Youth Films International Final Cut Editing workshops with Apple Canada's Mike Alfano

The Art of the Interview:Workshop Four

2010-04-21T19:55:00.002-04:00

YFI 2010 Workshop 4

What's The Story, Morning Glory: YFI Workshop Week 3

2010-04-14T09:18:00.008-04:00

Youth Films Intl. Workshop Part 3. Teaching the Art of the Ethical Doc

Future Doc Stars: Meet The 2010 YFI Students

2010-04-09T20:42:00.033-04:00

(Photo: Getting ready to interview Prof. Stephen
Hawking and his daughter Lucy at his office in
Cambridge, 2009)

Every year, the students that are accepted into the Youth Films International workshops get better and better. Kids in high school dedicate themselves to spending six Saturdays with professionals at the iconic National Film Board learning about making a documentary - and during the week they do the work and make them. It inspires me.

Another thing that amazes me each year is the depth and thoughtfulness of the subjects students chose to profile in their documentaries. As you'll see below, they are personal, touching and smart. Good on you.

So thanks for coming students, I'm glad you're part of the history of Youth Films. You've set the bar higher yet again.

Meet the upcoming generation of documentary film makers who are making sure Change is Happening. Be sure to cheer them on.

Micah Adrian

I am 16 years old and I live in Pontypool.
I have been interested in filmmaking for a long time and have made quite a few shorts for fun and also for school. I have not yet made a documentary so I think this could be a good way for
me to expand my knowledge in film.

Caleb

Through the years ever since well about grade 7 I have been making short films and productions with my friends. While learning some good editing and filming traits i was able to pick up how to edit. I am doing this certain project cause i think it is a great way to expand my filming and editing skills. Also teaching me new things about the filming process and also just to have a good time putting together another short film with my friend to see how we have improved in are movie making skills. I love making films and i love watching them and hopefully this will give me a better understanding of them.

Our documentary is about Neighborhood Gentrification in the GTA and the various social and economical effects of this process.

Sham, Felicia, Cassandra

My name is Sham Mughal and I am a 17 year old student, currently in grade 12 at David and Mary Thomson C.I. I am very interested in video production because I now understand how powerful of a tool it is to get information across. I hope to become a very successful director and be able to change the world through my movies. I have taken Communication and Technology also Video production classes which has helped me realize what I want to do and how to do it.

Felicia

My name is Felicia Khan. I’m 17 years old and I’m attending my last year at David & Mary Thomson CI. When I was in grade 10, I was first introduced to Video Production and started learning about filmmaking. In this production class, we got familiar with the video camera; we made short videos throughout the year, and then a large video project in the end. I never got the chance to actually film a documentary so I’m excited to see what it’s going to be like. I’m looking forward to being able to create a documentary .

Cassandra Vincenzi is a grade 12 student who has always had an interest in the film industry; it became relevant to her that she actually wanted to consider it as an occupation when she found herself examining cut and angles while watching popular movies. She has never done a documentary before; but during her grade 11 communication technology course she decided to do a Mocumentary about a girl who thought she was the sidekick of a super villain in reality this so called villain was actually just the schools bully. She hopes that learning the techniques to creating a documentary will enhance her understanding of the art of film. She is hoping to attend the RTA program at Ryerson University but at the moment she will be attending the Arts and Contemporary Studies. She hopes that she can take the skills she learns and apply it to her future career.

Our Doc

Our documentary topic is Social Change. The question that we are asking is: Is Social Networking hypnotizing our generation to stop us from finding out the truth and to believe what they say and not to question anything and at the same time “Dumbing-Down” our generation. We will be looking into the case of the internet and the computer also television and how it is or isn’t destroying the young minds. Also is it a positive direction we are moving to and a negative. Through this question we will try to uncover the truth and answer the question that everyone is asking.

Marcus

Hello, my name is Marcus, I am 13 years old and I enjoy wildlife and animation. I am from Markham, Ontario, and go to Brother Andre Catholic High School. I am in the 11th grade but take a few grade 10 subjects. I really enjoy doing biology and other science because of all the interesting wonders our world holds.

When I was in the 1st grade I was bullied and mocked. My parents decided to home school me after that experience until I was 9 years old. My father decided to put me in school again but again it did not work out. Because of that I was held back 2 grades but soon my parents decided to home school me again. Soon, I managed to skip another grade and go into high school.

Malcolm

My name is Malcolm Cassius Rose Harriott. I stay at home and do virtual schooling from Richmond Green S.S., I am in grade 9 and I am 11 years old. My hobbies are: animations, soccer, drawings, violin, and piano. My aspirations in life is to be an animator and a dentist, I am going to try to be the best animator ever with my brothers.

Our Doc

In our film the behaviour of geese will be monitored from our own backyard as we journey around our pond. We will also make animations to give a better interpretation for their behaviour.

Oksana, Matthew, Jeremy

Hello, my name is Oksana Slade! I am 15 years old. I was born and raised in Ukraine, where my parents were missionaries for 12 years. I am in grade 11. I have been homeschooled all of my life. I enjoy reading, playing piano, and making cards. I love musicals with a passion. I've always had an interest in writing and I am thinking about pursuing a career in journaling.  

My name is Jeremy Langlois and I am 17 years old. I have an interest in engineering and architecture. I am interested in mechanical engineering. I play the cello, bass guitar and the piano. My current job is working as a Lifeguard and swimming instructor and I have been doing so for two years. I have also always had an interest in film and photography, and have often thought about becoming a professional film editor/photography.

I go by the name Matthew, Matthew Sutherland. I born and raised for the first half of my life in the beautiful province of British Colombia. I greatly enjoy music, art, photography and filming. I like anything that involves being creative and artistic. I am in grade 11, and hope to pursue a career in arts and media, and what every that may in-tale.

Our Doc
The short documentary that us three will be making, will explore homelessness in down-town toronto among youth. And how youth may come into that kind of predicament. We will observe what can be done to end homelessness among youth in toronto. We will be talking to people are experienced in this area and what they have to say.

Stay tuned for more, including blog updates on their projects.

Review First Then Panic, Workshop #2

2010-04-06T20:58:00.007-04:00

Attached find a refresher on Week #2 Workshop. Please feel free to review (and then panic). There WILL be a quiz. I'd appreciate the sound of less silence.

Note: you will have to pause it to review as it plays through super fast.

Come prepared with your blog (anyone out there...?), research completed (you should be an expert on your topic), and a DETAILED plan of what you want to do. Type it up on your computer, print it out - one copy for me, one for you. Here's an example. (coming soon)

Guess what my first question will be? (hint: the same one I've asked every week!)

Hey Mentors - remember to follow up with your groups please. Help with a checklist, think ahead of how much time we have left, and what needs to be done week by week. Send questions my way. You might need to do more than an email. Just say'n.

Don't forget - In Six Words. If you're still working on yours, you need to have it fine tuned by now. If you've got it, remember what it is so you stick to your focus.

Looking forward to Saturday!

Over and Out.

Springtime

2010-04-03T11:02:00.011-04:00

No Workshop Today! An extra week to get your research and assignments done! Back to regular scheduled programming April 10th, 12:05 pm @NFB.

In honour of spring and this gorgeous long weekend in Canada, a clip below from a funny, funny Mel Brooks broadway play, The Producers.

(content removed)

Capturing Reality

2010-03-28T15:13:00.005-04:00

This is the film we talked about in Workshop #2. Check it out, it's awesome.

The top documentary film makers in the world talk about Ethics, Character, Interviewing, Re-interviewing, Camera, Lighting. Worth your time.

Click here to watch it for free on the NFB website.

Consent Forms

2010-03-28T14:23:00.005-04:00

YFI Students:

Revised Consent Forms can be downloaded from the link on the right of the blog. Each and every person who appears on camera (recognizable) in your documentary has to sign a release form. Print off or photocopy as many as you need. Submit them with your completed doc.

These are standard consent forms used in any type of documentary programming.

It is fine to give a copy of a copy of a blank form to anyone who asks but please collect their signed form first. You can direct them to the website, or myself if they have any questions you cannot answer.

Forms can also be found here.

And We're Off!

2010-03-20T19:23:00.014-04:00

"Pick up a camera. Shoot something. No matter how small, no matter how cheesy, no matter whether your friends and your sister star in it. Put your name on it as director. Now you're a director. Everything after that you're just negotiating your budget and your fee."~James Cameron

Avatar - $2.6 Billion and counting.

He's unbearably smug, and ruining the whole modest polite Canadian vibe. But, le boxoffice doesn't lie.

The take-away from the Cameron quote is this:

Do something. Learn by your mistakes. Play around with your camera, your writing skills, your storyboarding. If you do nothing, that is exactly how much progress you'll make. The more hours the more experience.

Telling It Like It Is: Week One

Week one of the 2010 Youth Films Doc Workshops was a whirlwind. Great teams, great mentors. And I sense a hunger and focus in this years crop of students that is more intense than other years. Each year the students set the bar higher for the next group of students.

Sometimes you don't know how things are going to work out and people may cast a shadow of doubt on your decisions... but these two things are working out marvelously.

#1) Teams. Youth Films strives to give students a taste of what it's like in a 'real-life' documentary scenario, and one of those things is team work. Making docs or making TV is all about team work, delegation, collaboration and working to your individual strengths for the good of the product. To participate this year, being part of a team is a requirement. Each team is made up of at least three people with the duties of Production Manager, Researcher, Writer, Camera Op and Editor divided among them. Less pressure and more team work means a better experience and a better doc. You'll meet the teams shortly when we post their Bios. Stay tuned!

#2) Mentors. Mentoring has a special place in my heart, and is a key part of the foundation of what makes YFI special. Each student team has been assigned a Mentor. The mentors are either outstanding graduates of previous Youth Films International workshops, or as is the case this year, fantastic students from post secondary Media programs. This year we have several students from Sheridan College's Media Arts program volunteering as Mentor/Coach to help guide the YFI students along in the process. Welcome to all. These mentors are paving the way and setting the standards for subsequent years of Mentors.

Mentoring is a two-way street. It is not all Teacher-->Student. Whether you realise it or not, we are all learning from each other.

Finally, we are working very hard to get a brand new website launched in the days ahead. It's exciting and a tremendous amount of work.

One change of note effective immediately is our email address. To contact YFI please email info@youthfilmsinternational.com .

We'll have more updates with the launch, but something to tweak your interest:

Plans for the very first INTERNATIONAL FIELD TRIP for Youth Films International Students in 2011. More information in days to come. We are exploring the best location to conduct this, but it will require a Passport! Students who have successfully completed YFI training or workshops will travel abroad for 1-2 weeks to mentor other emerging documentary film makers, as well as learn about making an international documentary. To inquire about sponsorship or participation, email info@youthfilmsinternational.com

Thanks for checking in. Your support is invaluable.

Review

Due to March Break for students in Ontario, a couple of teams couldn't make it to the workshop. Below is the presentation for you to get up to speed. You'll have to work extra hard to catch up. Each week is a massive learning curve. Click your mouse to advance to the next frame.

Workshop Week One Pp

Of Springtime And The Kindness of Strangers

2010-03-17T23:28:00.003-04:00

"In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt."
~Margaret Atwood

Well here it is friends, a long-overdue update on Youth Films.

Thanks for your patience, for your visits to the site from everywhere from Canada to South Africa to India, Europe and the Philipines! Welcome to all! And thanks for your encouraging words! It's been an intense, busy time the last few months - recruiting, speaking, applying, designing, developing, composing, emailing, working. It's nice to catch my breath, and drink up the longer days and warmer temps of this time of year. Warmer? I should say schizophrenic.

Oh, Spring you are such a tease. I don't know why more girls aren't named Spring. Think about it.

One day it's flirty sun-filled kisses and playful muddy lawns, the next it's your cold shoulder of frost making us all feel very grumpy and confused. Today, parts of Canada were basking on patios in a balmy St. Patrick's Day haze. But last Saturday - the day of our Video Camera workshop at Henry's - it was a different weather picture. Pelting rain. Wind. Chills. The kind of wind that pops umbrellas inside out with a thwak! and makes you fear for little old ladies who could be blown off their feet. My hat was whipped off my head walking home from the Henry's workshop that day. In a second it was across a busy street, and before I knew it, out of sight 100 metres away in a park. From the sidewalk I stood in the rain watching it get further and further out of sight, debating. I decided to chase it down. I sprinted across Church Street, over slippery streetcar tracks, dodging other pedestrians...and as I was racing into the park towards the last place I'd seen it (a thicket of wet shrubs) I saw someone else racing in the exact same direction! Except he was way faster.

Now, I'd like to think my hat was all-that, the kind of fashion statement people would fight over because its so cool, but really, it was nothing special. So why is this man chasing after my hat too?? Two words: Good will. A rainy, cold Saturday afternoon on a crowded street and a stranger handed me my soggy hat with a big smile. Hard to say, (I hate to jump to conclusions) the gentleman may have been homeless, I didn't look too closely, and he was on his way somewhere else so he didn't linger. The whole thing, from the moment my hat left my head, to when it was back in my hands spanned only about 2 minutes. I have been blessed to have experienced the kindness of strangers many, many times in this big city. I'll add this to my list.

Back to the Henry's workshop that preceded the Hat Rescue. Trevor Sherwin at Henry's walked students through one of the best How-To workshops I've ever seen. Three hours flew by. (side note: check out Henry's School of Imaging, they have tons of still camera and editing workshops) YFI Students impressed my socks off - they were there early (Yay team!) and were ready to go. We covered a lot of ground, were each personally shown how to adjust our cameras, and enjoyed some free McDonalds coffee. It was a fantastic way to start YFI 2010.

Three things we learned in the YFI Video 101 Workshop:

Simple, slow, steady camera moves beat fast, shaky and busy.
Sound is 50% of the experience. Bad sound = tune out. Use a separate mic input, minimize background noise.
Turn off the auto controls. Your camera settings will be preset to auto exposure, focus, etc. Use the manual settings for better results.

Week One: The Big Idea

This week our Documentary workshops begin in earnest. This year is going to be amazing. We've developed a system where each documentary team is be partnered with a Student Mentor who has graduated from a previous YFI workshop, or is in a post-secondary Media Program. This mentoring, and 're-mentoring' is a key part of Youth Films. We learn, we teach, we learn, we teach. Students will get to ask as many questions as they want during the week, not just on Saturdays, get some advice from those who have more experience, and collaborate. Film making is collaborating. The best ideas come from talking it out.

You'll also soon be able to meet the new students. Their bios, photos and documentary themes will be online this weekend.

Now This is Exciting!

We've been talking and planning and thinking about this for a long, looong time. We're launching a brand new website in the coming weeks. This old-faithful blog will be no more. And while it has its charms (super easy to use, lets me set low expectations :) the new and improved site is really something. My friend and talented web designer Aaron Bernardo is burning the midnight oil to make it spectacular.

The new site will roll out in chunks, starting with something I'm really looking forward to - an Interactive Student Blog section. Each Doc Team will write about their journey each week, describing how they're progressing. Your feedback and input will be great to help keep them motivated and staying on track. You'll also be able to view videos online, sign up for our Summer Doc Camp (more to come on that!) and submit ideas. In days and weeks to come you'll see a lot more video content, articles, interviews and updates. Please feel free to submit your feedback. I always love hearing from you!

We've also applied to funding with two funding agencies, which we should hear from in the next month or so. Keep your fingers crossed!

Oh, and re: YFI Summer Doc Camp. A rare fun treat July 19-24th in Toronto where we'll spend a fun-filled intense week making a documentary. If you or someone you know is interested, wave a flag, save your spot (that means email me). It will fill up fast. It's gonna be great.

[Fig.1 The rescued chapeau]

Little Genie

2010-03-02T13:04:00.002-05:00

"It's the 'Canadian Oscars'!"

That's how we explain to anyone (including Canadians) who don't know what the Genies are. If I may ride the coattails of our country's biggest patriotic group hug in history, let's take a moment to raise our back-lit cell-phone's high to Canadian talent. I'm not talking about just rooting for the home team, although that is reason enough. Canadian movie-making, television production and general talent has come along way since Relic and the rest of the Beachcomber gang. Besides who among us doesn't lightup at the strains of The Littlest Hobo theme song.

We Canadians have historically needed a little validation from beyond our borders before we really give the seal of aproval to our talent pool (ergo, they seek it out in Los Angeles). That may all have changed since the remarkable, chest-pounding, flag-wearing love-in that was the Vancouver Olympics. (I still miss my daily dose of O Canada). In the para-phrased words of Michael J. Fox at the closing ceremonies - once you hit the big times, we'll claim you as our own!

If you're just dying to show some more love for the Maple Leaf - check out these documentaries up for a 2010 Genie Award.

In honour of the Genie nom for Inside Hana's Suitcase, I'm including the interview Youth Films did with Producer Larry Weinstein on the eve of his movie's release.

So, next time you hear that Elton John classic, wave your cell phone in the air and think of our own " Little Genie".

Best Feature Length Documentary

Kristina McLaughlin, Michael McMahon, Alan Zweig
A Hard Name

Larry Weinstein, Rudolf Biermann, Jessica Daniel
Inside Hana's Suitcase

Patricia Aquino, Paul Saltzman
Prom Night in Mississippi

Mila Aung-Thwin, Kat Baulu, Brett Gaylor, Germaine Ying-Gee Wong
RiP: A Remix Manifesto

Best Short Documentary

Marie-Josée Saint-Pierre
Passages

Peter Mettler, Sandy Hunter, Laura Severinac
Petropolis: Aerial Perspectives on the Alberta Tar Sands

Kara Blake, Marie-Josée Saint-Pierre
The Delian Mode

More Nerve Wracking Than the Olympics

2010-02-27T19:55:00.002-05:00

As a Canadian, watching the Olympics has been fun and a little stressful. Our country's been slagged a little bit, and, there have been some embarrassing and tragic moments in the last two weeks. And, how about those Moments of Anticipation. The split second during the Short Track Speed Skate after the starter says 'on your mark' and before the gun goes off. I feel for those guys/girls who can't hold back their adrenaline and thinking about getting that all important edge, make a false start; or, the agonizing moments after a performance when figure skaters, or snowboarders wait for the judges marks. The nation exhale's when one of ours is tops. Own the Podium has become a bit of a punchline, but the times when we have 'owned' it sure have felt good.

Me, I'm stuck in Moment of Anticipation mode. But not because of the Olympics. It's because of this labour of love called Youth Films. It too is a team sport and has lots of supporters and fans. But it's nerve wracking. I'm patiently waiting as applications trickle in last minute, students scrambling to see if they can get in after the official end-date has passed. They're our 'athletes' and we await to see if they will take part.

So, if you're a high school student and want to sign up for the workshops WHICH START MARCH 20 (!!) (*bonus video workshop Mar 13) we're going to leave the applications open as long as possible so we can have as many of you apply and take part in this amazing experience. The deadline says March 1st, but we'll give you extra time if you're interested.

Send an email to youthfilms@gmail.com, let us know and click on the link on your right and fill out the easy-peasy application now. Workshops start March 20th.

Some students are just hearing about Youth Films and want to get involved - do it now. You'll be happy you did.

(Don Mills CI - I'm looking at you :)

If you're not in high school and reading this, the best thing you can do is forward this to students and teachers and have them join in the fun.

Now...back to the Olympics.

Tell It Like It Is

2010-02-05T00:12:00.003-05:00

Making It Count: YFI for Social Change

2010-02-03T13:02:00.001-05:00

'Social Change' is one of those headline terms that inexplicably makes me uncomfortable.

Sometimes, 'social change' rubs me a little too much of band-wagon jumping for the cause-du-jour. The do-gooder's wagging their do-gooder fingers saying 'You Should Be Like Us'. (After 30 seconds of reflection, I'd say this is my issue, not theirs.)

More seriously, does 'social change' have a clear definition? Excellent question. Unfortunately the answer is that social change is abstract and subjective and completely circumstantial. Yet... I get it. Instinctively, the concept of social change just sounds right. Right?

Young people are often the biggest force behind Social Change, and appropriately it is one of the themes YFI workshop students are invited to use to develop their documentary . YFI Mentors will guide you through the process. Make it count.

Where do you see a need for social change? What is happening in your world? Use your doc to tell the story from your point of view.

By the way, the big thing with social change is that if we don't embrace the abstract concept of changing our world, the concrete reality won't happen. It has to start with the vision. Our dream here is to 'Change the world one documentary at a time.'

Here's a great clip to get you thinking about social change, from Vancouver film maker Andrew Lavigne.

"With Glowing Hearts" is a documentary about a revolution, one of social change and a paradigm shift in media representation focused around Vancouver, BC and the upcoming 2010 Winter Olympics."

Be My (YFI) Valentine ?

2010-02-03T12:28:00.002-05:00

Valentine's Day is the bane of every single person's existence (for that matter, what couple truly enjoys Valentine's Day??). However, for Youth Films - this V-day forget about chocolates and roses and curl up with an application;

Feb. 14th is our Early Bird Deadline!

So, get your Doc-team of 3 people together and get submit your application for the 2010 Workshops. Applications submitted by Feb. 14th and have access to a Special Bonus Workshop. Click here to apply now.

Remember: Workshops are free to High School Students!

The Final Deadline for Applications is February 22nd, 2010 5:00 p.m.

Five Weeks...that's how long until the next set of Workshops starts, on March 13th. Five little weeks. So, if you're a high school-er in the GTA, you're looking at pursuing journalism, film, tv after you graduate AND you want to learn how to make a doc from the pro's - this is for you. It's time to apply while there are still a few spots left.

This year students are focusing on three theme's: Social Change, Science (including Environment), and Biography.

For 2010 Workshops Students:
Congratulations if you've already been accepted! We have some very special events, people and news coming your way.

Free Intro to Video Camera Course!
Case in point - our brand new partnership with Henry's School of Imaging. Henry's, if you don't know, is where all camera pro's go for the best video and still photo equipment across Canada. The wonderful folks at Henry's have custom designed a Video Camera Basics course exclusively for YFI students. You'll learn everything from the technical, to tips on how to get the best shots, and secrets of the pro's. It's invaluable for all YFI students. We're stoked! You can't attend if you aren't accepted into the program; and, that means you should get your application in pronto.

Intro to Video Camera
When: March 13, 2010 10:30 A.M.*-1:30 P.M. (*arrive by 10:15 at the latest)
Where: Henry's School of Imaging, 119 Church Street, Toronto, ON
What to bring: Your video camera, tripod, power cord, a tape or chip, notepad.

2010 YFI Workshop Dates:

March 24th: 12:00-3:00 pm Workshop #1, NFB
March 30th: 12:00-3:00 pm Workshop #2, NFB
April 3rd: (Easter Wknd) 12:-3:00 Workshop #3, NFB
April 10th: 12:00-3:00 pm Workshop #4, NFB
April 17th: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Workshop #5 *EDITING WORKSHOP*
May 1st: 9:00 am-5:00 pm Workshop #6, *EDITING WORKSHOP*

October 2010 - YFI Annual Gala where top completed docs will be screened for television industry pros, the public, and students and teachers.

Finally, in honour of our Valentine's Early Bird deadline, here's a clip from the documentary Young at Heart, featuring some rock'n rollers who like the Early Bird buffet...

Be Mentored and Make Your First Doc. Applications Now Accepted.

2010-01-10T17:37:00.004-05:00

I read a great article breaking down the seven basic types of documentary styles, and it reminded me of the first workshop every year in the YFI Student Workshop Series.

Yes it's that time. Even as I am still packing away my Christmas decorations, I'm thinking about the next round of workshops coming up in early March.

The Youth Films Workshops are for beginners. We cover the basics and, of course, we always discuss the ethics of the decisions we make as film makers.

This is Youth Films 3rd year (!) of Student Workshop Series and it is shaping up to be our most exciting ever. Some of the excitement I'll share today, but some will be announced in weeks to come. Stay tuned!

So. This year, again, we will have Professional Mentors from the tv and film industry - camera operators, editors, producers, on-camera hosts, etc.; Student Mentors who have completed the YFI Workshop series in previous years and want to share their knowledge.

What's new are some amazing opportunities provided by the partnerships of the NFB, Apple Canada, Henry's, Discovery Channel and more. A huge thank you to each of these companies for their support.

If you are a high school student interested in making a short doc this year, this is your opportunity. Some of the rules have changed so it's very important you read over the FAQ's and apply ASAP as the limited spots are already filling up.

Here are some of the exciting things you can expect:

The 2010 workshops are tentatively scheduled to start March 13th and run until May 1st inclusive at the National FIlm Board of Canada 150 John St. Toronto, ON. They will run from 12:00-2:30, except March 20th which will be 12:30-3:30pm.

Mentoring and Instruction from industry professionals through out the process.
Ethics: focusing on thinking through the choices you make in producing your documentary.
Apple Canada: is providing a computer to each YFI Team equipped with editing software (Final Cut Studio) and Instructors/Mentors to guide you through the process through 2 all-day editing workshops, April 17th and May 1st.
Henry's Camera is generously providing an exclusive workshop to Youth Films students on Video Camera 101. March 13th at Henry's in Toronto.
Field trip to Discovery Channel studio in Toronto.
Field trips for filming and interviewing.

Once your application is approved, you'll receive more information on what you need to do and bring.

If you are planning to take part, it is strongly recommended that you come up with a specific idea for a 5-10 minute short-doc, and start filming. Every past student will tell you that starting early is the thing they wished they'd done!

Email me if you have questions. Browse the site to check out previous students and workshops. And be sure to read the updated FAQ's!

I look forward to helping you become a film maker!

YFI Year in Review

2009-12-29T15:00:00.017-05:00

The end of every year is full of paradoxes.

It's a titch bitter-sweet, remembering all the exciting growth, struggles, false starts and surprise endorsements; and most of all the new people who have come our way. Personally, I'm always filled with a mixture of anxiety and relief, glad for what the past 12 months have delivered, yet not fully ready for that symbolic turn of the calendar into another year, and in this case another decade. Like an adolescent with one foot in childhood, one foot in adulthood, helpless to resist the natural trajectory of life, but not exactly embracing this new heavy responsibility that comes with it.

2009 was a great year for Youth Films International. Today we're looking back, recounting the highs and lows, an exercise in gratitude, a way to tell you what you may have missed, and let you in on what is coming and what we need to happen to keep growing and expanding well into the next decades. If you want to be a friend to YFI (remember - like "wi-fi") we welcome you with open arms. There is a place for those who support the vision and want what we want. With new people come new ideas, fresh creativity, and unexpected synergy. I love unexpected synergy.

Working virtually solo on such a huge project is a bit surreal. You have a lot of conversations in your head. You jot down ideas frequently and everywhere - scraps of paper, multiple notebooks, laptop, desktop, daytimer. Being organised becomes an almost impossible task (for me!). But, what charges me the most is when I finally do get to talk to someone else about this passion. Invariably, invariably, people are wowed by the concept, by the opportunity, by the excitement. It jolts me out of the inner monologue and reminds me why this is meant to be. It's not just philosophical support I see in their eyes. Youth Films is primarily for 'youth' as you might guess, but even - or especially - adults have a moment of 'gee, I wish I could take a YFI workshop' or wishing it was available to them in their high school years.

That said, ironically, the toughest part has been getting the Toronto public school board (TDSB), the biggest in the country, and the one currently benefiting most from YFI, to really get behind it. Let's just call it red-tape, it's a system snafu. We've not been able to even get the TDSB to send a simple mass email to let all teachers know about the program (IT'S FREE, FOR THE LOVE...), talking to the powers-that-be has been about agenda serving rather than an openness for giving opportunity to students. Thankfully, the past couple of years has been buoyed by a few staunch supporters within the TDSB - teachers and students - who love YFI, love what it does for their students and love documentaries. 2010 will be our year for breakthrough, I have a good feeling. I must also mention that teachers from other cities and provinces are perhaps even more eager and enthusiastic in their support - from the maritimes, to Sudbury to Edmonton and many spots outside of Canada - teaching the next generation how to make entertaining and ethical docs is satisfying a hunger. My goal is to take YFI to those towns, cities and provinces in 2010 and beyond. (Get your funding together now!)

Youth FIlms has a simple mandate: "Empowering the next generation of documentary film makers with the creative, technical and ethical tools to improve the landscape of media - from the inside."

What makes us different?
1. We focus on documentaries only.
2. Re-Mentoring - students are mentored and encouraged and to come back in following years to mentor other students
3. We focus on ethics - encouraging students to think about implications of their film making decisions

For starters (there will be more top tens), here are my top ten highlights of YFI 2009

1. Twelve great students who pushed and and inspired and made their very first short documentary film. Well done.
2. Partnering with Canada's prestigious purveyor of high-quality films - the National Film Board, for the first of what we hope will be many years. 2009 saw our workshops take place at the fabulous facilities of the NFB every Saturday afternoon.
3. Partnering with Discovery Channel: both the Interactive team and Daily Planet were hugely supportive of Youth Films. We were featured on Daily Planet, and have a permanent presence here. It's an honour to have the support of one of the top broadcasters on the planet.
4. Community Support: Staples - one of Staples Business Depot's mandate's is to support local, community based non-profit organisations, and the Front and Parliament location was quick to get behind Youth Films. They printed these awesome posters and cards designed by the awesome Craig White of Motive1 Design.

*Also a shout out to the Starbucks in my hood for donating a load of swag, and Corbin Tomaszeski the Exec Chef at Holt Renfrew's Cafe in Yorkville for supporting the Gala again this year. Merci a tous.

5. The Gala - the highlight of the year for everyone (see picture album to the right of this blog), for the first year held at the NFB, it was bigger and better than ever. Featured 5 films made by students and catered by Toronto's best burgers (Shant Mardrosian) and the cupcakes by Kate Brown. Served in style by the Scanlan's. In the blooper category we cannot forget that the screening room projector DIED (!) in the middle of our final film, much to the chagrin of student film makers Aaron Lai and Phillip Szukula. Bummer. We quickly repo'd to the Atelier to finish the screening and scarf down aforementioned food. Check out the students here:

6. Volunteers. You keep coming! I'm amazed at how many people with talent and skill and very little free time want Youth Films to succeed, and want to be a part of this fast-growing project. From friends who have been there since day one, to brand new Facebook Fans who also want to get in on the action. A huge thank you. It's cliche, but I couldn't do it without you.
7. We were a Featured Educator as part of media literacy week! So cool!
8. Funding - it's a long haul, but we got the ball rolling in 2009. 2010 is going to be a big push for more funding, support from community and government grants and the all important charitable status!
9. Building Relationships - although hard to quantify, it's importance cannot be overstated. Both in the spirit of mentorship that Youth FIlms was established and continues to grow, and for the networking opportunities that bring in support, sponsorship and funding, and perhaps most importantly those relationships that keep us motivated to continue when things get a bit heavy. That includes you, reading this blog. Thanks.
10. The Education. Mine and theirs. Priceless.

Stay tuned....

Too soon?

2009-12-26T01:38:00.013-05:00

Merry Christmas!

I know you just finished stuffing yourself with another outstanding festive dinner.... the bird, the veggies, omg the gravy! So good. It's true, my Christmas isn't complete without barrels of food for days. I mean it's a feast, isn't it? All that time and care that goes into one perfect, sumptuous meal. We look forward to it all year long. I can still picture it like it was yesterday...(it was).

And, now I've got to go ruin it all.

Food, Inc.

It's a great Documentary. And it'll make you look at your chicken burger differently...and the tomatoes you put on it. Yeah, it might make you squirm to know where your food comes from - and not just meat, by the way. Better to know than live in ignorance...right? Controversial? A little. You'll be glad you watched it.

Another gem from Jeff Skoll and Participant Productions. I don't think I've read a single unflattering review of this doc. It's on most top ten lists for 2009, won a couple of Gotham awards, and it's on the short list for the Oscar contenders. It's one to watch.

And this is the YFI review, part of our Guest Reviewer series, this time a short and sweet review from Asher Siddiqui.

Food, Inc.

" Food, Inc. is a brutally disturbing, fundamentally important new documentary by Robert Kenner. Food, Inc. offers plenty of food for thought and helps more consumers realize that "cheaper" food is NOT necessarily a bargain. Lack of participation by companies such as Monsanto Co. and Tyson Foods Inc. also confirms the
faceless corporate greed and its truly fatal consequences. Food, Inc. does its job in getting out the information that most of us probably want to ignore and shouldn't. A powerful documentary with great credits,
cinematography and a message is that it's up to the consumer to change things in the food industry." ~AS

Oprah's Early Christmas Gift to Doc-makers!

2009-12-12T11:47:00.005-05:00

This is GREAT news for documentary film makers. Think of what Oprah's Book Club did for book sellers and authors....Might as well start your own Documentary Film Club now. It's inevitable!

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - In the tradition of Oprah Winfrey's famous book club, the talk show host's cable channel, OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network, will launch a documentary film club, with a focus on films with inspirational themes.

OWN has partnered with Ro*co Prods., a division of documentary film distributor Ro*co Films International, to do a primetime monthly documentary film series on the cable channel, a co-venture between Winfrey's Harpo Prods. and Discovery Communications that is scheduled to premiere in January 2011.

Exclusive footage from the films featured in the documentary film club will be put up on OWN.tv, and some of them will get nationwide theatrical screenings. OWN plans to create communities nationwide that can screen the films together and participate in a live, moderated panel discussion.

Ro*co, founded in 2000 by managing director Annie Roney, has distributed eight Oscar-nominated feature documentaries, including "Born Into Brothels," "The Garden," "Jesus Camp," "No End in Sight," "Promises," "Regret to Inform," "Street Fight" and "The Weather Underground."

Copyright 2009 Reuters News Service. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

The Art of the Interview

2009-12-09T10:54:00.009-05:00

Interviewing is my thing.

Done well, it's rewarding, and exciting and adds layers and insight to your story. Barging into an interview unprepared, however, is a minefield, (and quite frankly unprofessional). I love teaching the Youth Films students how to interview, and then watch them test the waters, and do their first interview. It can be nerve wracking (even for the experienced), but it can be addictive too. Having access to people normally out of your sphere, and 'unlocking' that person who at first seems tentative or reluctant. Even when it's not central or obvious, The Interview is at the heart of your documentary. Facts take on new meaning when context is revealed, or suppressed as the case may be. Journalists talk about someone being 'a good interview'- which almost always means they were candid, well spoken and pleasant.

But what makes a good interviewer?

Today TED has an interesting talk by Marc Pachter who has conducted live interviews with some of the most intriguing characters in recent American history as part of a remarkable series created for the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery. He reveals the secret to a great interview and shares extraordinary stories of talking with Steve Martin, Clare Booth Luce and more.

I love how he describes a good interview:

"It is energy that creates extraordinary interviews."

Even if you're not likely to interview someone in your lifetime, his stories are fascinating.

The Best, Part 1

2009-12-06T13:43:00.007-05:00

The National Board of Review has just named The Cove, the best documentary of the year. The Cove has all the elements of a good story - drama, risk, good vs. evil, compelling victims (dolphins) and beautiful cinematography. I've said before that Jeff Skoll's company Participant Films is a role model for Youth Films International in that it makes great features that have a life changing element to them. The Cove is more proof that this is a good idea. (Food, Inc. is also produced by Participant).

As much as we love 'em...and maybe it's why we love 'em, but documentaries more often than not tackle some pretty heavy topics. Thank goodness for the light hearted ones like Chris Rock's "Good Hair". Hilarious.

The rest of the NBR's top five:
Burma VJ: Reporting from a closed country
Crude
Food, Inc.
Good Hair
The Most Dangerous Man In America: Daniel Ellaberg and the Pentagon Papers

Good Hair

For over 100 years the National Board of Review has dedicated its efforts to the support of film, domestic and foreign, as both art and entertainment. Our nonprofit organization celebrates the distinctive voice of the individual artist, honoring excellence and supporting freedom of expression in film. The Board's core activities include fostering commentary on all aspects of film production, as well as underwriting educational film programs and seminars for film students. In 2009, the NBR expanded its student grant giving to eleven schools, and reached out to the community through the Children’s Aid Society and Reel Works Teen Filmmaking.

Yangtze gets a late review, Anvil gets a Spirit nod

2009-12-04T13:49:00.008-05:00

This time of year I love to see what is the what when it comes to 'Best of' lists for documentaries. Later, I'm going to post some of the best docs of this year, just in time for Christmas gifting. If you have a favourite, let us know! Everyone loves a personal recommendation.

Last year, one of the top docs that caught buzz at Sundance and pretty much everywhere else was the gorgeous Canadian made 'Up The Yangtze'. If you haven't seen it, check out Craig Douglas' review, below. Craig is the first of what will be a regular series of Guest Reviewers.

Anvil
Another one of 2008's best was the Spinal Tap-ish 'Anvil: The Story of Anvil' about a Toronto metal rock band who had it's glory days in the 80's but never quite broke through in a memorable way, yet continue to try, despite a serious case of middle age. Definitely worth seeing. I loved it. I met Lips and Robb at the premier after party. They're very endearing... but not the greatest conversationalists.

Anvil was just nominated for Best Documentary for the Independent Spirit Awards. Click here for the trailer.

On right side of this site, you'll find a list some of last years top documentary picks. Have you seen any?

YFI Review: Up The Yangtze

Typically documentaries follow one of a handful of formulas to convey the message of the filmmaker - e.g, guerilla-style, talking heads, etc. So, it’s refreshing when you find a documentary that flows a little differently. “Up the Yangtze” is one of those unique experiences. Director Yung Chang uses minimal narration, drifting softly from the bigger picture to the intimate emotions of individual lives as he travels from his home in Canada to his ancestral homeland of China to see his grandfather’s glorious Yangtze River. He finds a landscape and a people that are being radically affected by the modernization of a quickly changing country.

As the journey starts out, Chang immerses us in the environment with contrasting footage of the land and the locks. He introduces us to Jerry Bo Yu Chen, an ambitious yet arrogant young man working the luxury tourist cruise boats that travel up and down the Yangtze, keen on taking advantage of his opportunity. And, Cindy Shui Yu, a frustrated teenager struggling to navigate the emotional waters of her changing world. These young people and their families serve as powerful examples of the social impact that this hydroelectric project is having on the region. As the film moves rather hypnotically (that’s a good thing), we are drawn into the emotional depths of a people living in tension with the ideals of their socialist past and the desires of a capitalist future.

At once a visual meditation and a deeply moving drama, “Up the Yangtze” is a stirring documentary that sticks with you. From the political and societal concerns to the people I met in the film, I continued to think about this film for days after watching it. I highly recommend this documentary. ~CD

A Day In the Life of Tiger Woods

2009-12-03T21:59:00.010-05:00

The average person's appetite for smut is breathtaking. Let me say right away that I admire you folks who are not sucked in by the tabloid gossip that flows with gusto through our airwaves and intertubes. So, for those of you whom can be counted in that category here's what you've missed this week: Tiger Woods had an affair or several affairs (I'm guessing the latter). His wife is not amused. Gossip is powerful currency. (The office Christmas party variety, included)

The astute will observe that the gossip culture that quickly jumps from twitter to youtube, then bleeds into CNN and CTV News and every newspaper website before you can finish your morning coffee, has politicized and commercialised our fascination to the point of surrealism. Experts analyse Tiger's PR tactics; alleged mistresses use the threat of a press conference to negotiate their fee-for-silence; another alleged mistress sells his voicemail to the highest bidder; millions of people give their opinion on web polls and man-on-the-street interviews about whether he should make a personal appearance, or should his wife stay or leave.

Everyone is talking about The Money. Is that why we wanna know more - because he's the richest athlete in the world? Or, because he seemed like a good, clean living, well adjusted young billionaire? I don't feel sorry for Tiger, ohhhh no, but I do find these relationship wrecking-ball situations very sad. And although I'll likely get into trouble for this double standard, the whole 7 Iron to the rear window... makes me wanna high-five Mrs Tiger. She is a woman scorned, look out. Really, what spouse wouldn't want to do that? (for the record, I'm glad he's ok) The "iron-y" (ahem) of her weapon of choice could not have been scripted better.

There are always innocent victims and there is one other person that might be paying for Tiger's 'transgressions' that none of us has considered...

Hurray! YFI is now Accepting Applications!!! (bonus: way shorter line-ups than H1N1 clinics!!)

2009-11-13T12:38:00.019-05:00

Youth Films Intl. is now accepting applications to the Spring 2010 YFI Workshop Series, and for the first time is offering a limited number of Private Customised Documentary Group Workshops!

First read through the FAQ's, to make sure you understand the guidelines, then fill out an application.

Student Workshop Application

*New for Groups*
Private,Customised Workshop Application.

To Mark The Day - YFI Conversation Series: Larry Weinstein

2009-11-05T11:44:00.051-05:00

If grabbing a movie on this day of remembrance is part of your plan, consider one that might suit the seriousness of this important occasion. A movie that will leave you not depressed, rather, full of hope : Inside Hana's Suitcase. Ostensibly, it's the story of a suitcase recovered from Auschwitz, and the converging lives of the woman who finds it, the brother who hears about it, and children who learn some important lessons about war, forgiveness and tolerance. Like any well told story, it will leave you moved, and unexpectedly drawn into another world.

In the movie, little Hana Brady is remembered first by a complete stranger a world away who's never met her, heard of her or even seen a picture. Then she's remembered by children in Japan who've never heard of the Holocaust but who want to know about the child behind the suitcase, and finally we hear from her beloved older brother, George, who is reunited with his little sisters final possession and the flood of memories that go with it.

Most of all this is George's story. George survived Auschwitz, Hana did not. Now a grandfather, George has created a legacy much greater than he ever expected.

The documentary is the latest from Canadian director Larry Weinstein who can list Emmy's and Gemini's and an Oscar nomination among the many awards for his 25+ films, most of which revolve around music (Blindness, Beethoven's Hair, The Music of Kurt Veil, to name but a few). Weinstein is not your conventional documentary maker. He routinely 'experiments' with genres and this time around is no exception. It's a hybrid, as he calls it, smoothly blending interviews with school children, re-enactments and archival footage.

Inside Hana's Suitcase is Weinstein's first non-music film. I sat down with him recently to talk about making the movie, about ethics, and if working with kids is a good thing.

Re-enactments are a common storytelling tool in documentary, and another documentarian, Errol Morris (Fog of War) , has some interesting thoughts on it. You can read more this New York Times article. Part I and Part II

But first check out this interview with Larry Weinstein.

Movie clip:"Fumiko"

Inside Hana's Suitcase

2009-11-05T00:09:00.006-05:00

Opening this Friday, Nov 6th in Toronto theatres Inside Hana's Suitcase is a documentary by acclaimed Canadian film maker Larry Weinstein about a small girl last seen by her brother in a Nazi war camp. There's a synopsis below, and, later this week Larry will be talking to Youth Films about making the doc.

INSIDE HANA’S SUITCASE, is the poignant story of two young children who grew up in pre-WWII Czechoslovakia and the terrible events that they endured just because they happened to be born Jewish. Based on the internationally acclaimed book "Hana's Suitcase" which has been translated into 40 languages, the film is an effective blend of documentary and dramatic techniques.

In addition to following the lives of George and Hana Brady in the 1930’s and 40’s, INSIDE HANA’S SUITCASE tells the present-day story of “The Small Wings”, a group of Japanese children, and how their passionate and tenacious teacher, Fumiko Ishioka, helped them solve the mystery of Hana Brady, whose name was painted on an old battered suitcase that they received from the notorious Polish death camp, Auschwitz.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker, Larry Weinstein, INSIDE HANA’S SUITCASE is a powerful journey full of mystery and memories, brought to life through the first–hand perspectives of Fumiko, Hana’s brother George, and of Hana herself.

Here's a sneak peak.

Legacies and Tweets

2009-11-04T13:08:00.013-05:00

I’m not on Twitter; I don’t Tweet. I don’t really ‘get’ Twitter. From my Twitter-free ivory tower I lump it somewhere between narcissism and spam. The Kutchers, so I’ve read, are among the biggest Tweeters and refer to their million-plus followers as a tight ‘community.’ Please. It's called publicity. So, I responsibly use my consumer clout and abstain from the Twitter-verse.

Until today. This morning I checked my Google Analytics (which gives you a break down of your website traffic) and there was an explosion of hits on this site. A 100% increase in traffic from one month ago. Whaaaaaaaaaat????

Youth Films had been Twittered. Multiple times. (thanks @ Ctr4SocialMedia and all your followers). I have experienced the power of Twitter.

What does this really have to do with Youth Films, other than some nice exposure, you ask? Everything. As we tumble toward the ‘new’ millennium’s second decade, nothing is more relevant than youth and media. These two words, dear readers, and their powerful combination are going to change the world dramatically. No, this isn't news. But, I guess being a part of it here at Youth Films International and as we say:

"Empowering the next generation of documentary film makers with the creative, technical and ethical tools to improve the landscape of media - from the inside"

is like realising you are riding a huge wave....while you're riding it - It's exciting and very,very cool.

It's about leaving a legacy. YFI's legacy will be what you just read in that quote. Chills, chills, chills.

High schoolers are technically sophisticated to be sure, but more importantly, behind their iPhones and WoW they're as shrewd as ever. Clever marketers analyse and break down demographics in an attempt to let us know how to 'approach and engage' this new generation, but it is, and always has been, about being authentic. (For a cool article on how marketing to youth has changed read this article from the dudes at mobileyouth.org)

So, please folks, feel free to Twitter this post! And, maybe you can tell me - how do you get any work done with so much cool stuff to read on there?

Coming later this week: A review of the doc Food, Inc. just released on DVD.

The Many Shades of Right 'n Wrong

2009-10-28T11:26:00.007-04:00

There's a well known question journalists are familiar with:

"If you saw a man drowning and you could either save him or photograph the event... what kind of film would you use?"

Ah, how we love to rag on the media. Sure, we/they deserve it, but it's not always cut and dried.

Here's a few others I found that make me feel smug until I remember 'I'm one of them'!

The one function that TV news performs very well is that when there is no news we give it to you with the same emphasis as if there were. ~David Brinkley

If it's called the USA Today, why is all the news from yesterday? BAM. Busted! ~Stephen Colbert

I believe in equality for everyone, except reporters and photographers. ~Gandhi

(seriously? Gandhi?)

Last summer I interviewed Pat Aufderheide, founder of American University's Center for Social Media. Her focus centres on the relationship between media and society and this year she and her students interviewed dozens of documentary filmmakers and looked at the issues they struggle with both in the macro and microcosms in which they operate. The result is Honest Truths: Documentary Filmmakers on Ethical Challenges in Their Work. It is an in depth, don't-hold-back look behind the scenes at the ethical dilemmas filmmakers face at every step; sometimes they take the high road, sometimes they sell out. Definitely worth a read. You can download it here.

Here's my interview with Pat.

Feed Me!

2009-10-27T11:53:00.021-04:00

In the early stages of any project, feedback is extremely important. Knowing what is working and what isn't working is the only way to evolve and get better. Otherwise, it's a waste of time for everyone and will have a very early expiry date. We want Youth Films to be around for many years and to keep growing and impacting students and the rest of the viewing world.

Here's your chance to help.

This is primarily for former students of Youth Films, but hey, if you have an opinion and like filling out forms - have a go at this. If you are considering taking the workshops, let us know what you'd like to see. No one else will see your responses, so speak your mind!

p.s. Apologies for the formatting overlap in the form. It's a technical issue out of our control. It will not effect your filling out the information. You can also fill it out here.

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The Agony and the Ecstasy

2009-10-21T16:04:00.009-04:00

Maybe that should be the Youth Films tag line. It certainly sums up a lot of things -i.e. the experience of the student film makers in pushing through to finish their docs, and it describes well for me what pulling off last night's Gala was like.

SO.MUCH.WORK. But, worth it, worth it.

There will be some photos and video highlights to come here on this site. I hope you'll post some of your own pictures or leave some thoughts here or on our new facebook page..

A few observations from this side of the fray:

Volunteers are awesome. So many people, many of whom I'm lucky enough to call friends, donated their time and expertise to make this a hugely classy event. I've said it before, I'll say it again: thanks.

Everyone was moved. They were moved by the ethos of YFI, by the students and how they were effected (and continue to be) by this program, by the excellent work students did on their docs, and by how much support this program has gained. They came to be cheerleaders. They left inspired.

People need this. I was approached by dozens of people last night who told me how they wished they had something like this when they were in high school, or how they've seen this have an extended impact on their kid/school/volunteering. It's always meant to be the pebble that starts a long ripple effect. Youth Films is going to continue to grow and become bigger and better and reach more students. With your help of course.

It's been an exciting week thanks to this gala and that other one. *sigh* It's all but a memory now. Remember, if you know someone who wants to sign up for YFI 2010 Workshops in March-April 2010, they should contact youthfilms@gmail.com sooner than later. Just sayin.

One exciting announcement from last night came from Discovery Channel execs Jeff MacDonald and Jon De la Mothe. Daily Planet is going to be showing a clip of one of the docs Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 7 pm and 11 pm EST. You'll have to tune in to see which one. Tell your friends to tune in, too. They've also put up a link on their site about YFI. The five docs from last night will be available soon. Keep clicking.

We have also secured involvement from Henry's in downtown Toronto, and Apple Canada for next year. More details to come on that. Stay tuned.

Change is happening. Achh, I'll stick with that tag line.

Acclaimed Canadian Artist Margaret Florence Ludwig Donates Art to YFI

2009-10-20T12:22:00.002-04:00

Art lovers and collectors take note. A rare and special exhibit, with guest appearance by the Artist tonight at the YFI Gala.

You can preview some of this stunning art here:

Please see below for the announcement. The pieces will be on display before and after the Screening. Select pieces will be available for purchase in support of YFI tonight only.

Margaret Florence Ludwig - Canadian North Collection and Special Viewing for the YFI Gala

You Should Do A Documentary On That!

2009-10-17T18:33:00.010-04:00

I don't know how many times I've heard this enthusiastic blurt.

Usually, it's blurted out by a person with a ridiculous and lame idea, but who thinks they're the first one to lay that line on me. (Eg: I'm going to duct tape the tear in my shoes tonight. You Should Do A Documentary On That!") It's not unlike when I meet someone with a last name that is also a noun (Wall, Wood, Hole) and I wittily use it in a sentence. At those moments I think I'm hilARious and oh so clever. This generally leads to awkward, fake laughter or blank stares. So, I don't judge the "You Should Do A Documentary On That!" crowd too harshly. Occasionally, you also stumble upon a great idea - it's almost always the result of exuberant, intelligent, stimulating and fascinating conversation, or you hear an inspiring true story of a person or animal beating the odds, or you discover a group, or story you can barely believe is true it's so unusual. In fact, one of my YFI students did a doc on Esparantists in Toronto after discovering this obscure, universal language was alive and well in his own hometown.

Every spring when then Youth Films workshops start, a number of kids come looking for ideas for their doc (about 10-15 mins). Some come with their idea already in place, but even those tend to change and evolve. Obviously there are unending ideas to explore - "l'embarras du choix" - in their universe and in yours. Narrowing it down is the hardest part. There are some basics to rule of elimination - These are the guidelines I give them:

1. Keen interest is key, passion is even better
2. You have to have access to the subject or people you want to film in a specific window of time.
3. There has to be a story to tell.

Behind every door, on the subway, in the hospitals you pass every day, and in your group of talented friends and family there is probably at least one story, or one idea that could meet all of these criteria.

What is YOUR idea? I wanna start a brainstorming session. If something pops into your head - share it. Maybe it's the story of an immigrant struggle, or an inventor, a survivor, a change of life... Something that might be happening in March and April 2010.

Drop an idea here in the comments, or on Facebook, or email youthfilms@gmail.com.

Start blurting. I bet your idea is a good one.

Check 'em out: A tease of the docs we'll be seeing next Tuesday

2009-10-14T22:43:00.003-04:00

Youth Films International
Student Workshop Series 2009
Gala Screening Featured Docs

Happiness Doc Hannah Athanasiadis, 17 Laura Fallis,18
So simple and so universally sought after, happiness is what we all want. Asking the questions ‘What is it?’ and ‘Where are you the happiest?’, Hannah and Laura went searching. They looked to clergy, teens, and a rockstar who all have their theories and their fond memories. They discovered some fascinating things about being happy. Or not.

The Friendly Spike Sally Rylett, 16, Ariane Fairlie 17
Community theatre can provide a forum for its players and no where is that more true than at The Friendly Spike Theatre Band, a small artist run theatre group. Their work supports the concerns of Toronto's marginalized communities and psychiatric survivors

Winds of Change, Melissa Cederqvist, 17
Nothing bands a community together -or rips it apart- more than change. A small corner of Toronto is facing big changes in the name of prosperity and growth. Is this change going to make the community better or destroy what is already there. Student documentary maker Melissa Cederqvist attempts to understand both sides of the issue facing her community of Don Mills.

Life Without Borders/Strife Without Partners, Shilpi Banerjee
When a military spouse is called to duty, a family is left behind to ‘keep the home fires burning’. But what happens when a wife is abrputly called into involuntary Single Parent Duty while her husband risks his life? Pride is mixed with fear and frustration for all involved. The solider who is protecting the country isn’t around to protect his/her family. Shilpi Banerjee has a front row seat to this as the wife of a soldier serving in the Canadian Military. This is her story.

Lost In Communication, Philip Szukala, 16, Aaron Lai 18
Most of us are addicted to one form of technology or another - from our Crackberries to our laptops to our iPhones we’re connected to the world. Or are we? Is the connection to the world inside Google divorcing us from living in the moment and turning old fashioned friendship bonds into virtual bonds? Aaron and Philip perform an experiment to see what happens when you take away a tech-addicts biggest craving....

For more info on these students go here

Spreading the News and Being Thankful

2009-10-09T12:51:00.007-04:00

I recently heard Thanksgiving weekend referred to as the "last uncommercialised holiday." It's true, mostly.

It has (or should I say "we have...") been able to retain it's altruistic essence, being thankful for what we have, and sharing some of our wealth, regardless of how meager or massive, with those who need it. The comment has made me ponder why this holiday is given a free pass by those who can profit from it. Maybe because it is not 'owned' by any one faith or religious group. It's a day everyone can agree on. No one I know has started to dread Thanksgiving the way we sometimes dread Christmas - not for its essence, but for the way it has been hijacked beyond recognition - clogged airports, insane shoppers, greedy retailers, greedy people.

(Side note: I saw Christmas Trees up and fully decorated at Ikea in September. It did not make me feel merry.)

Speaking of thankful....
Today I got an email that Youth FIlms was featured as part of the national Media Awareness Network for doing good work. So cool! Check it out here:

While I'm at it, thanks to everyone who has supported this project along the way. Seeing how willing people are to help has been pretty amazing. To corporations, friends, teachers, students, and people who heard through the grapevine and asked how they could help.... Thank You.

Happy Thanksgiving!

The Gala: RSVP by October 2nd.

2009-09-29T21:01:00.003-04:00

If ever there was a story…

2009-09-18T15:55:00.006-04:00

Picture this:

A tall, beautiful and disheveled dark skinned 20-something blind girl is being escorted by a pixie-ish blond in a feminine skirt down a hospital corridor lined with empty gurneys. The blind girl's big eyes are closed and she's unable to contain her sobbing as she inches her way forward. Her white cane points, out of habit, gently sliding on the floor ahead of her. Even here in the ER, where suffering is the headline, she draws stares. As she passes by you can see patches of her skin exposed under her t-shirt and it is covered in sores. This girl has suffered. It’s not attention she wants. She doesn’t know we’re staring. It is pure, raw, gut-deep grief. Over what, I don’t know. She sat while the hospital worker called a cab, and the tears continued to rush out. The cab arrived. The hospital worker, with a hint of impatience, tried to take an all-business approach but the Blind Girl quietly, hiccupping through her tears, pleaded: ‘Please. Please let me stay here. Don’t make me go back to the shelter. I don’t want to be blind. I don’t want to be sick. I just want to die.’ We stared, hearts broke for her. In that room, bulging swollen limbs, bleeding head wounds, beat up women and men, old-folks, accident victims, homeless drug addicts – we all stopped thinking about our own pain for a minute.

She cried all the way to the cab. She couldn’t see us, but we could see her.

Everyone has a story.

Documentary, Do You Need A Make Over?

2009-09-02T10:39:00.025-04:00

I think I have it figured out.

I've always wondered why Documentaries,as a film genre, have struggled to draw crowds compared to their much richer cousins Hollywood Blockbuster and Romantic Comedy. You'll be relieved to know, the answer dawned on me this morning during my commute. It's a marketing issue. Documentaries need a make-over; some good PR; maybe a new haircut.

According to Box Office Mojo since 1982, the top 100 box-office receipts for feature-length docs total $632,915,298.00. The top 100 Romantic Comedies on the other hand grossed $10,155,421,586 in the same time period; about 16-times more money. For the most part, a documentary is much cheaper to make, so the return on investment seems stronger. (One interesting side note, is that the top grossing documentary to date, Fahrenheit 9/11 cost $6 million dollars to make and grossed $222 Million; the top grossing RomCom, My Big Fat Greek Wedding cost a mere $5 Million to make and grossed $369 Million. Both exceptions to the rule.)

Here's what I think. Documentaries need to re-brand. Spending your time and money to see some 'Action' or 'Drama' or 'Comedy'....easy sell! But to go see a Document? It all sounds so....beige. Unfortunately, since it's only been a few hours, I haven't come up with the re branding strategy. But, I'm telling you, if they change the name of their category, people will start flocking. (Jeff Skoll are you listening?)

In the meantime, I'm doing a little re-branding of Youth Films International. We have a great new logo (which is definitely not beige), A new website is in the works that will feature Exclusive Interviews with top industry professionals, Guest Bloggers, Guest Film Reviewers and another surprise called the Y-FI (like "wi-fi") Five. I'll reveal more of that in the week to come.

This little engine is in the midst of a lot of growth. It gets more and more exciting. We're switched into high gear, carefully approaching potential partners to make sure the fit is just right. And of course the fabulous Fall Gala is around the corner.

I guess what I'm saying, is make-overs can be fun. You don't have to lose your personality just because you start wearing lip gloss. Come on, Documentaries, you might like it. And maybe we could make a... documentary.... about it.

Filming the make-over of Boscombe Beach in southern UK to turn it into a surfing destination.

Inspiration

2009-08-25T15:21:00.008-04:00

How many times have I regretted the 3 minutes spent reading drivel on this information highway, hopefully chugging toward the moment when that anonymous opinion turns into revelation, or,even better, inspiration. Only to mutter and 'arghh' my way to the next site. Internet democracy is no bed of roses.

Yet, to set out to write something specifically inspiring seems, I don't know... somewhat disingenuous, doesn't it? Akin to when someone tells you to 'act like yourself'. (What?) Isn't inspiration up to the reader, the same way beauty is in the eye of the beholder?

Well, my goal is to make you not regret this stopover. So, adjust your expectations, friends, I am not setting out to specifically inspire you - which would be ironic at this point - but, I will share what and who inspires me.

Jeff Skoll (www.skollfoundation.org)
The more I find out about him the more inspired I am. So many things to like about him. Billionaire at 36 (eBay), he established a new model for philanthropy and social entrepreneurs via the Skoll Foundation; funds some of the most worthwile movies to come out of Hollywood in the last 5 years (The Cove, An Inconvenient Truth, Murderball, etc. )In short, he's a behind-the-scenes visionary, and no small part of my inspiration for this endeavour, i.e. Youth Films.

2. Malcolm Gladwell (www.gladwell.com)
You'll at least have heard of, if not read, Outliers, Blink or the Tipping Point. It's hard to not get caught up in the revelations Gladwell shares about our human nature and ultimately how we're all connected. Outliers got me thinking about what things I have spent 10,000 hours doing (the number of hours it takes to turn talent into expertise).

"...once you have enough ability to get into a top music school, the thing that distinguishes one performer from another is how hard he or she works. That’s it. What’s more, the people at the very top don’t just work much harder than everyone else. They work much, much harder.” ~Outliers

There's really no end to what inspires. This morning it was a clear blue sky and the thought of another gorgeous summer day to enjoy (sorry rest of Canada, it's 27C here). You know how sometimes you just feel like it's going to be a good day? It was one of those mornings. I think it would have been a good day either way, but this unexpected news sealed it:

24th Annual Gemini Awards Nomination
Best Lifestyle/Practical Information Segment
Frances MacKinnon
Daily Planet
Sydney Tar Ponds

Somehow, it feels very inspiring.

Malcolm Gladwell on Jimmy Kimmel

The Cove trailer

Chrysalis

2009-08-15T19:38:00.027-04:00

chrys·a·lis (krĭs'ə-lĭs)
n. pl. chrys·a·lis·es or chry·sal·i·des (krĭ-sāl'ĭ-dēz')
A pupa, especially of a moth or butterfly, enclosed in a firm case or cocoon.
A protected stage of development.

It has begun again. Meetings, dreaming, planning.

Panicking.

On October 20th, the 2009 Youth Films Screening and Gala will showcase the best of this years student docs. The short -docs were done from beginning to end as part of the 2009 Toronto Youth Documentary Project Workshop Series. A group of creative, enthusiastic, fearless, first-time high-school documentary makers will have their big screen debut , and you will leave inspired. Trust.

They walked through the doorway of the National Film Board last March knowing next to nothing about making a documentary....and six weeks later had their first film. And what you'll see at the Gala Screening are the results of their creativity and hard work. If you braved the very winter-like October weather for last year's Gala at the Distillery District, you know what a fabulous night it was. And... I think this year's Gala is going to top last year's. Our team is currently huddling together to make it a kick-butt time for all. Stay tuned for more details to come!

First we take Toronto...
And, a lot of exciting things are happening within the Youth Films Project, too. After a couple years of intense learning (more to come, I'm sure) about what works and what doesn't, a clear direction is emerging. So many people are excited and eager to help, it's been hard to keep up. Without exception, every person I have told about this project has volunteered to help in any way they can - and they do. The ethos of teaching high schoolers about responsible television, and the re-mentoring approach has touched a chord. I'm humbled at the number of people who have donated money, time, talent and brainpower to a very worthy cause. Word is spreading. Educators across the country are hearing about the project and wanting a Youth Documentary Project in their community. And that is the idea. Free for students, the best information and techniques from top industry professionals, and teaching that using their power for good is critical. Using the medium for good IS the message. It matters what you put on your screen. Teachers know the value of getting good information to their students.

But I digress.

Metaphorically speaking, YFP is stretching... preparing for the cocoon to butterfly phase. Shortly (fingers crossed) we will have official non-profit status; a graphics design firm is coming up with some freakin' awesome artwork, and volunteer staff are jumping in to make things run smoother as we grow, and we are exploring the right fit with corporate sponsorship (your advice or offers are most welcome).

There will be more updates and exciting announcements in the days and weeks to come.

One more thing before I go - if you're interested in this project, sign up as a follower of the blog. It'll save me emailing the update every time.

If you have questions feel free to email youthfilms@gmail.com

Youth Films/change is happening

Yes! You! Can! (Re-Mentoring)

2009-04-07T13:32:00.009-04:00

Re-Mentoring is a key part of the ethos of the Toronto Youth Documentary Project. It breaks down the idea that you need to be an 'expert' in order to teach someone else. Not so. You just need to be willing to share your experience and offer a little advice now and then.

Students who complete the workshops and their documentary are encouraged to come back and share their learning experiences with the next group of students. Talking about their successes and their failures are equally useful... plus it's evidence that they can actually do what can seem to be more than they can handle.

Last year's students have already made an appearance at the first workshop, and will be there again this Saturday. In the meantime, they offer this advice from their first time making a documentary, which was only a year ago......

From Soroosh:

1. Before you begin editing, go over all the footage you have recorded. It's important to know exactly what you have to work with and to become familiarized with your footage. While you're watching think of what scenes you can use and what scenes you should omit. Although you have recorder the footage yourself you'd be surprised with how much you can learn from reviewing it over again.

2. Grab a piece of paper and begin brainstorming about how you think you are going to structure your film. In my experience with editing, I found that it's a lot harder than just selecting clips and putting them together. You have to know what order you want the scenes to appear in, whether or not you are going to use narration. By writing a rough sketch of what you think your film is going to look like you have made it that much easier for yourself to organize your footage during the actual editing stage

From Kirsten:

#1. bring your camera with you everywhre if possible, you never know when opportunity will arise!!!

#2. keep an open mind about the course of you doc. and the story, you may have a set idea in the beginning but don't be afraid to let it evolve!

#3. have fun + love every minute

From Michael:

1) During an interview, instead of just having it as one long shot, try intersplicing images or pictures related to what the person is saying (makes it more interesting to watch).

2) Just because it is a documentary, doesn't mean you can't make it personal or put your own unique twist on it.

They sound like veterans already!

Good luck to all!

Discoverychannel.ca Partners with Youth Films!

2009-03-25T10:27:00.004-04:00

YFI is overjoyed. One of the most respected networks in the country is partnering with us in an exciting venture.

Each student who completes his or her short doc will be eligible to have it posted to Discoverychannel.ca and voted on by a worldwide audience! The winner will be announced at the Fall Screening Gala (October 2009).

“We’re excited to partner with the 2009 Youth Films said Jon de la Mothe, Executive Producer, Interactive at Discovery Channel Canada “the docs will be streamed on DiscoveryChannel.ca providing the students with a real life audience for their finished projects.”

It's an amazing opportunity for any first time documentary maker and TYDP students know they have to raise the bar.

Keep checking this website to find out when the doc's will be posted on-line so you can vote.

Did You Know?

2009-03-20T19:37:00.002-04:00

Student Assignment: Pitch Your Doc. In Six Words

2009-03-16T14:45:00.014-04:00

The roots behind the idea of 'In Six Words ' apparently trace back to Ernest Hemmingway. But, the recent popularity behnd a six word memoir can be attributed to the folks at Smith Magazine. Their point is that you can say a lot in six words. (Watch the video for some of the best six-word memoirs posted on a variety of websites.) It's also a great exercise in focus when it comes to story telling. It strips away all but the very core concepts and necessary words and leaves you with a clear message. And focus is the all-important starting point in knowing what your documentary is going to be about and how to move forward. So leave your six word doc concept here. And make sure you bring it to the next workshop! You can also watch it here.

Meet The Newest Youth Films Intl. Student Doc-Makers!

2009-03-13T15:07:00.071-04:00

The YFI 2009 workshops have begun and you're looking at future documentary makers! These guys and girls have officially leapt off the diving board into an intense 6 weeks of learning the ropes for making a short doc, and the chance to change a small piece of the world with their work. They're a smart, dedicated and creative bunch. Their projects are ambitious - and totally within their reach. Stay tuned for the final results to see their finished projects at a special Gala Screening. Feel free to leave a comment if you have suggestions for their docs or if you have ideas or inspiration to share.

Aaron Lai and Philip Szukala

Both currently attending Don Mills CI. First time documentary makers and really excited in what we will create. Pursuing a career in the industry of media, specifically film making, Youth Films was a perfect opportunity for both of us to explore and learn about film.

Aaron: I can't remember the exact date, but it must have been sometime right after Rush Hour came out that I really got interested in film. Literally right after I watched it, I went on my computer and started typing my own screenplay. Sadly, over the years I lost this file. Ever since that day I've been taking every opportunity possible to gain experience in the media. I made small films about random things with my friends but nothing at the level of professional I was seeking. I decided to take an extra year at Don Mills CI to gain more experience in film and photography before applying for a post secondary education at Western, Ryerson and York University and hopefully one day, a career in the film production industry.

Philip: I've been into film from about the age of 10. After watching "The Matrix", me and my best friend took out my parents camera and started filming an action film. It was based on mission and spy things and that's when I realized how I can use one camera to film multiple angles of shots, and put together a whole story. We made about three sequels (about 5-10min each) and showed our parents. They were surprised at what we did and even how we did it all. Ever since that time I've started realizing I'm really good at this and can go a lot further. I've recently been filming and editing skateboarding, then throwing it out onto my Youtube account. I've made a couple short films and some video projects for my classes. I joined the Youth Films program to learn more about the industry and to finally make my first documentary along with my partner Aaron. Im very excited to start shooting and putting this together for you all.

Amrew Badr

Currently attending Don Mills CI, I am a first time documentary film maker. However, the concept of making videos themselves is not new to me. Aside from films, I like video games, and long walks on the beach. Future career plans include infiltrating your mind with my brand of socially conscious pieces of art, whatever the medium may be.

My documentary is about artists, and how ordinary their lives really are. All this despite the glamorous lifestyle often portrayed on television.

Laura Fallis

My name is Laura Fallis and I'm an 18 year old grade 12 student. This is my first time making a documentary but I have made short videos before. I worked on my middle school video yearbook, but I haven't done anything since then in the field of video so I'm very excited to dive back into it! As for future career plans...who really knows what they want to do when they're 18 years old? There are many things I would love to do with my life, but one thing I am leaning towards is teaching. But who knows, that may change in the next couple of years while I'm off at University, which I plan (hope!) to attend in the fall to take Kinesiology.

The documentary my partner Hannah and I are doing is called The Pursuit of Happiness. We are planning to make a light-hearted and fun video on the many ideas stemming from happiness. Such as materialism, the psychology of happiness, the effect of love, family and relationships on happiness. My partner and I are genuinely curious about the reasons for happiness and what affects our own personal happiness. This is why we chose to do our documentary on this topic. I am very excited about this project and cannot wait to spread the happiness!

Hannah Athanasiadis

Hannah is 17 years old and attends Don Mills Collegiate Institute. She was born in Montreal, and lived in Lachute, a small town close by. When she was 6 years old she moved to Toronto and has been living there ever since. Hannah’s background is Greek. However, since she was born in Canada, she also identifies with being Canadian, often referring to herself as a Greek-Canadian. Hannah has many interests, but her main interest is music. She has been playing piano since she was 6, and although she quit the Royal Conservatory of Music after receiving her grade 8 piano diploma, she still continues to play. She specializes in writing her own music. Hannah is very interested in health and the human body, as well as psychology. She has applied to universities for food and nutrition programs and she hopes to become a Dietician in the future. Although she wants to become a dietician, her ultimate career dream would be to become a music producer. Hannah also has a bit of experience in other related fields, such as visual and cyber art, photography, film, musical theatre and modeling. She wants to expand her creative streak and experience even more in these and other related artistic fields. Hannah has been taking photos and making movies since she was little, so that is what sparked her to take the Youth Films course. She hopes that by taking this course and making a documentary, it will help her to expand on her creative knowledge and experience and possible career options.

James Graham

When I was 8 I discovered movies.

My parents divorced. I moved a lot and lived in many different houses apartments/condos in the city. I didn't have many friends, so I spent a lot of time at home in front of the good ol' tube. Sure, I liked cartoons, but there was something about movies.
As the viewer I was brought into a new world. A world filled with so many new emotions, ideas and opinions. I was hooked. Sometimes I would go rent 7 from the corner video store, and watch them in one sitting.
I told my parents I wanted to be an actor when I grew up.
I was enrolled in YPT(Young People's Theater). I was kicked out of YPT.
After that I stuck to watching movies, and dreaming.
I attended Northern Secondary School Grade 9 through 11.They have a great Drama program.
I barely passed the class, I hated paper work. At the end of the year one student in each class is awarded with an achievement certificate, for outstanding participation and achievement. Now with such a low mark I didn't believe I had a chance. When I won it I was punch drunk. After my teacher told me why I knew what I wanted to be, a film director.
I dropped out of school for a year. I pulled up my socks. I attended East York Alternative, where I met another teacher who was just as obsessed with movies as I was. About a year ago he told me about this Youth Films Project and that I should sign up for it. I went at it with gusto. It wasn't the best of times, things were unclear and I failed to complete the doc. I finally graduated high school and the second YFI rolled around. I asked Fran if it was alright if I came back again, she said yes. Thank you Fran!

Being a first time documentary film maker I had some difficulties thinking of a topic. So I thought and i thought, until it came to me.
My Doc is a true character piece, about me and my many recent conflicts struggles and flaws(addiction/obsession). It is about my will, my confidence and determination to overcome these afflictions and to follow my dreams. It is the discovery of oneself, in a positive manner. Although, not everything is in my perspective. People close and far to me will paint my portrait. The question is will they show you who I really am? Or will I?

Mazhar Kakar

I was born on October 24, 1990 in Kabul, Afghanistan and moved to Toronto, Ontario in 2006 where I now live. I am currently studying at Don Mills Collegiate Institute. This is my first time coming out of my darkroom and using my photography skills to make a documentary. Following my high school career my plan is to pursue a post-secondary education in photography at Ryerson University or Concordia University where I want to expand my knowledge of fashion photography and photojournalism.

My documentary is based on the different aspects of Toronto's architecture from Industrial to Commercial to Residential.

Melissa Cederqvist

Melissa Cederqvist is a first-time documentary film maker in her last year of high school at Don Mills Collegiate Institute. Seventeen going on graduation she enjoys current events, languages, science and philosophy. Her documentary is an account of the changes her community of Don Mills in Toronto is undergoing, with the building of a new mall and a large condominium.

Sally Rylett and Ariane Fairlie

Ariane Fairlie is a first time filmmaker, although is regularly interested in photography and visual arts. She is extremely excited about discovering the world of film and documentary making, as well as discovering more about herself and the topic of the doc. Ariane currently attends Harbord Collegiate institute, and after highschool, Ariane hopes to attend Concordia University in Montreal for studio arts yet intends to bring the experiences and knowledge she achieves from this experience to help inspire and relate to her art.

As well as Ariane, Sally Rylett is a first time filmmaker, with previous interests in photography. She intends to pursue film, and is curious to see what she will learn both about the technical aspects of filmmaking, the difference of documentary style filmmaking, and especially about the film topic throughout the process. Sally is currently at Northern Secondary School, and Concordia University is her dream post-secondary school, and she intends to apply for the film production school. The skills she learns from this course, as well as an insight into the professional world of filmmaking, will help drive and inspire her to continue on in film and cinema.

Our documentary is about a theatre group called The Friendly Spike Theatre Band. This group is composed of multiple volunteers who can stay for one production or many years, who perform productions primarily based on mental illness and struggles in today's society.

Shilpi Banerjee

Employment Specialist with Toronto District School Board.

When it comes to documentary making, this will be my first attempt. I got the idea while my spouse who is in the armed forces was deployed for a peacekeeping mission in Sudan for seven months. The degree of isolation, lack of support and ignorance from community towards soldiers and their families prompted me to do something to bring more awareness and I thought making a documentary might serve the purpose of educating others.

A lot of students in school do not know much about the contribution that soldiers and their families have made. So through my documentary, I would like to educate not only the general public but students too and one day make it part of school resources where it can inspire students to make a difference no matter what they choose to become, learn to be resilient and to believe in themselves while keeping a positive attitude when life takes a bumpy ride.

This documentary will be for charity and any funds raised will go towards the children of the wounded soldiers or their families.

The Workshops - 2009

2009-03-01T16:43:00.003-05:00

Week 1: Intro to Docs/The Big Idea: An overview of different types of documentaries. How to come up with an idea that is realistic and achievable and entertaining. How to focus your idea.

Week 2: The Story, Part One: It's all about the story. This workshop will focus on story telling basics, who your main characters are, how it will start and how it will end

Week 3: The Story, Part Deux/Interviewing Skills: Refining your story, overcoming obstacles. How to conduct an interview

Week 4: Shoot 'em Up/Copyright: Covering the basics of using your camera equipment along with professional tips and tricks. An expert will talk about asking people to participate in your documentary. What are their rights? What are yours?

Week 5: Rough Cuts: You need to have a basic compilation of your doc by this week. Bring it in for feedback from Fran and your fellow workshoppers.

Week 6: Final Cut/Celebrate!: Bring in your finished project. What happens next for your documentary? Options for festivals, the gala screening etc.

Get Ready! 2009 Workshops Start Up at NFB

2009-03-01T16:28:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to all students who are participating in the 2009 Toronto Youth Documentary Project Workshops! It's about to begin!

This Saturday, March 7th, the 2009 Workshop Series will kick off at 12:00 at the NFB offices at 150 John Street, Toronto, ON. Please check in with reception and you will be directed to the workshop.

Re-Mentoring:

A big and very important part of the TYDP Workshop philosophy is "Re-Mentoring". This is where students who take the workshops come back in following years and help guide and advise new students by sharing their experiences and help new students navigate through the often overwhelming process.

Last year's student documentary film makers Soroosh, Michael and Kirsten will be on hand to show you their films and share their experience. Bring your questions so you can learn from them and how they accomplished their goals.

If you have not yet registered for the Workshops, do it now. See the application form for required info and email youthfilms@gmail.com

Check out the post relating to Workshop Outline for more info.

TYDP

Trouble with the Application Form?

2009-01-27T10:19:00.004-05:00

The registration form seems to be acting tempermental at the moment and not working for some people. Try it, but, if you get an error message, please just email the pertinent information based on the form questions to youthfilms@gmail.com.

National Film Board to host Youth Films Workshops in '09

2009-01-26T13:47:00.007-05:00

Youth Films is thrilled to announce that the National Film Board in downtown Toronto is the location of the next session of YFI Workshops.

"The NFB Mediatheque is pleased to support the YFI for encouraging responsible filmmaking, " said Lindsay Wright, Supervisor, Education Programs and CSM, Marketing and Communications at the National Film Board.

With this exciting new partnership we have extended the deadline and start date to accommodate more students.

This limited series of free workshops for students with a passion for film making, will run six Saturdays from 12-2pm beginning March 7th at the NFB Toronto office located at 150 John Street (at Richmond St.) Toronto, Ontario M5V 3C3, Phone: 416-973-0904.

YFI workshops are intended to teach students technical skill and social responsibility in documentary film making. Students should be able to complete their short doc by the end of the session.

To participate please register promptly. Deadline to register is Feb. 20, 2009. Students need to bring notebooks, video camera and ideas.

Read our FAQ and browse the website, or email questions to youthfilms@gmail.com

TYDP

Youth Films Guest Speaker, Matthew Wood gets 2nd Oscar nom!

2009-01-26T13:32:00.007-05:00

Matthew Wood, who attended the first annual Youth Films Intl. student documentary screening as special guest speaker has earned an Academy Award nomination for the second year in a row. He is also nominated for his second BAFTA.

Good luck Matthew!

Oscar nominations 2009

Achievement in sound editing

"The Dark Knight" (Warner Bros.), Richard King
"Iron Man" (Paramount and Marvel Entertainment), Frank Eulner and Christopher Boyes "Slumdog Millionaire" (Fox Searchlight), Tom Sayers
"WALL-E" (Walt Disney), Ben Burtt and Matthew Wood
"Wanted" (Universal), Wylie Stateman

BAFTA Film Nominations 2009

Sound

"Changeling "– Walt Martin, Alan Robert Murray, John Reitz, Gregg Rudloff
"The Dark Knight" – Lora Hirschberg, Richard King, Ed Novick, Gary Rizzo
"Quantam of Solace" – Jimmy Boyle, Eddy Joseph, Chris Munro, Mike Prestwood Smith, Mark Taylor
"Slumdog Millionaire" – Glenn Freemantle, Resul Pookutty, Richard Pryke, Tom Sayers, Ian Tapp
"Wall•E" – Ben Burtt, Tom Myers, Michael Semanick, Matthew Wood

Join the club - Make a Doc in 2009

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The First Step is to Register or send an email.

Also check the FAQ for more info.

Welcome

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YOUTH(ink)

FILMS

INTERNATIONAL

Change is happening

Filmmaking isn’t a mystery any more. Fifteen-year-olds can (and frequently do) make a music video or tape their friends beating each other up and within seconds upload it for the world to see. And all it takes is a cell phone. Like jeans and sneakers, camera phones and webcams are part of their every day. And, one day, not too far off, these kids will be making films, writing scripts and running networks.

YOUTH FILMS INTERNATIONAL t is pioneering an exciting adventure that aims to capture the imagination of tech-savvy students and arm them with the power to think about it’s impact. It’s a volunteer run series of documentary workshops giving a small group of students a real life documentary-making experience from concept to screening.

But this is much more than a ‘how-to’ series. This is about making relevant change that ultimately has a domino effect on many levels.

Beyond basic technical training, this series of workshops is intended to instill a sense of responsibility in students in what they present to their world, and what they contribute to the airwaves on a global level. Exploring issues of respect, ethics, and responsible film making are at least as important as developing strong writing or editing skills, as is the challenge to remain entertaining and engaging.

In its first 3 years YFI has already had a huge impact on the social conscience of students and carries the potential of offering something significantly fresh and entertaining to the landscape of television.

And, it doesn’t stop there.

Re-mentoring

The best way to learn is by teaching. Every student that completes the series of workshops is considered for the re-mentoring program. Re-mentoring invites them to return in following years to coach the new crop of students and share their experiences.

Youth Films was founded in 2008 by award winning television documentary producer and writer Frances MacKinnon.It combines Frances’ expertise as a TV producer and writer with a passion for telling stories.. Her work has been seen around the globe on Discovery Channel where she still works.

“Students are more media savvy and have more access to filmmaking equipment than they ever have before. But what they do with that enthusiasm and equipment is what I want to impact,” says Frances.

For more information email info@youthfilmsinternational.com

2009 Workshop Series

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You have the exclusive opportunity to take this free doc-making course from a Discovery Channel producer/director and learn the ropes of making your own documentary. Limited space is available.

Workshops which will be held on consecutive Saturdays beginning February 2009. (dates and location TBD). Each workshop is approximately 2 hours long, running 4-6 weeks (TBD). At least one person from each team must attend all workshops. It is in your best interest for everyone to attend all.

Register here in order to participate. Include the names and contact info of all team members.

WORKSHOP DATES - Feb-March 2009. Exact dates and location coming soon!

#1. The Big Idea

#2. Story A-B-C's part 1

#3. Story A-B-C'S part 2

#4. Action - Camera work

#5. Rough Cut -Beginning to put your doc together

#6. Final Cut -Finishing your doc

Apply Now For the Feb. '09 Workshop Series!

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Toronto Youth Documentary Project Application Form

In order to streamline the process this year we're asking everyone interested in participating to submit an application form to participate in the TYDP Workshop Series '09. Applications must be received by midnight January 17th, 2009. Successful applicants will be contacted.

For more information on the Workshop Series, please click here. You can also submit questions to youthfilms@gmail.com any time.

Thanks for your interest!!

A Great Night - Launch October 2008!

2008-11-23T10:33:00.036-05:00

Everything was ready.

Rows of empty chairs on polished hardwood waited for their occupants, the tunes were organized, coffee and sparkling water beside empty cups. And after a few glitches, audio issues smoothed over. Luckily, a world class Hollywood sound expert was on hand to make sure that went well.

On October 28th at 7:00 pm, after months of planning, meetings and a lot of help to make it happen, dozens of teachers, students, family, friends and organizers piled into the beautiful Pikto Studio in the Distillery District to watch the debut efforts of our student documentary filmmakers.

With guests and speakers from Discovery Channel and Skywalker Sound, and enthusiastic support from everyone in the audience, this event reflected the standard of the TYDP, and the amazing support from volunteers and fans of the project.

Matthew Wood@TYDP Launch

Frances MacKinnon@TYDP Launch

The first highlight of the night was Matthew Wood who took time out of his busy schedule at Skywalker Ranch in California come to the first annual TYDP screening and launch to share his own story of how he started working for George Lucas when he was just 17 and the journey that has so far led him to a long list of awards including an Academy Award nomination for There Will Be Blood.

Matthew is Supervising Sound Editor at Skywalker Sound in Marin County, California as well as the voice of General Grievous in Star Wars. (Skywalker Sound is part of Lucasfilm, Industrial Light and Magic and makes it home at the legendary Skywalker Ranch.)

Showing us how it's done in Hollywood, he shared a highlight reel of some of the work Skywalker has done over the years, from Star Wars to Forrest Gump to There Will Be Blood. Sound is equally important to tv and film as pictures, he told us. It is what engages the viewer and makes an experience visceral. George Lucas calls it "50% of the experience".

Student documentary makers Kirsten Webb, Michael Marcucci and Soroosh Vafapoor took centre stage to introduce their projects, telling us about their challenges and ultimate satisfaction in learning story development, filming and editing during the four week TYDP workshop series. Then we watched!

Student: Kirsten Webb,
School:SEED Alternative School, Toronto
Doc: "The Ego and the Self: What is Identity?" (preview to come)

Student: Michael Marcucci,
School:Harbord Collegiate Institute, Toronto
Doc: Click to preview Trees of the Urban Forest

Student: Soroosh Vafapoor
School: Harbord Collegiate Institute
Doc: Click to preview Esperanto and Esperantists

MAPS FOR TYDP SCREENING/LAUNCH

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MAP TO PIKTO STUDIO

(*note Pikto STUDIO different location than Pikto Store)

Youth Films Intl. Screening and Launch October 28, 2008, 7:00 pm

2008-10-08T14:38:00.044-04:00

CLICK HERE TO RSVP (required)

MAP TO PIKTO STUDIO

(please note Pikto STUDIO different location than Pikto Store)

TYDP Sponsors:

DAILY PLANET

Launch March 2008

2008-04-02T23:29:00.013-04:00

East York Alternative School
4:35 pm

FAQ

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mandate of the YFI Workshop Series?
"Empowering the next generation of documentary film makers with the creative, technical and ethical tools to improve the landscape of media - from the inside."

I have already taken a YFI Workshop and would like to keep going in this direction. Is there something more advanced available?
We are currently putting together a 'Rock the Doc' YFI Summer Doc School for July 2010. The Summer Program will be slightly more intensive and ideal for students headed to post-secondary pursuits. If you are interested, email youthfilms@gmail.com.

What happens at the YFI workshops?
You will make a short documentary; key word being YOU. At the workshops, we collaborate with students to come up with an idea for a doc, lay out the plan to make it. You are responsible for filming and editing on your own time with the mentoring and hands-on input from industry pro's along the way.

Expect to learn a LOT. It's the basics of story telling, camera work and editing designed for high-school students. Past students will tell you it's hard work, and they're right. But it's also a lot of fun, and pretty cool. It's interactive, relaxed and really, really creative. But, you will have lots of homework (i.e. shooting your doc, editing it.)

What kind of things will we learn?

Click here for an outline of the last workshops.

How do I register?
If you are interested in taking the YFI 2010 Workshops series, read through the FAQ's and submit your application ASAP.We are now accepting applications. There are a limited number of spots.

Who can apply?

Anyone interested in making a documentary can apply. However, there are some new rules for the 2010 workshops. Please read carefully:

Application Guidelines:
Students must work in teams of at least two or three people. They will take on the titles of
A)Creative Lead (E.g., Strengths in story telling, writing)
B)Technical Lead (E.g., Strengths using video camera, editing, lighting)
C)Production Lead (strengths in admin areas - making calls, setting up locations, getting permissions to interview).

Film making is a team sport, and all the duties can be shared, but combining the right strengths in your team will make it more productive and less stressful for you. Please include all names and contact info for your team when you apply.

Experience with a video camera and editing software is not required, but is an asset.

Preference will be given to students interested in pursuing a career in documentaries, film making, and journalism.

Your finished documentary must be 10 minutes or less.

Is there a cost to attend the workshops?
No. It's free.
(*Fees apply to private group workshops)

What should I bring to the workshops?
Bring something to take notes with and your video camera. We might use it every week, but then again, we might not.

Where and when will the workshops be held?

At the National Film Board of Canada, Toronto offices, 150 John Street, Toronto, Ontario.

What equipment will I need?

Video Camera and Editing software. *For the Spring 2010 Student Workshops only* students will have access to Final Cut Studio, Apple's editing software as well as instructors who will help you. If you are already familiar with Final Cut, please indicate so in your application. You do not have to use Final Cut if you want to use something else you are familiar with.

Can I work alone or is it all teams?
Teams of 2-4 students required. See Guidelines above.

How long does a film have to be?
Maximum 10 minutes.

Is there a particular video format I have to work with?
Work with what ever format you want but make sure you have the right software to edit it.

Do I have to attend all of the workshops?
You or someone on your team does. It's better if you come to all of them. There are only a few after-all.

Will there be field trips?
Hopefully, yes. You'll be notified. We typically invite students on an (optional) tour of Discovery Channel studios in Scarborough,ON, and arrange a day doing practice field interviews.

Can I send a rough cut for feedback in between workshops?
Yes. Upload the project to this website or youtube or email them to youthfilms@gmail.com. You can also bring your footage and roughcuts to the workshops. You'll get feedback soon after. Include specific questions if you have any.

When is the submission deadline for my short documentary film?
You must submit your doc at the last workshop.

How do I submit my documentary?
You will have to supply 2 DVD copies that can be played in a DVD player, as well as an online version of your documentary.

What about the Gala Screening?
Selected completed films will be included in the annual Gala Screening. It showcases student projects and much more. See the screening of last's year's YFI students for a taste.

Speaking of the Gala, can I submit a film I made outside of this workshop series?
No.

Ok, Sold! Sign me up! Where do I register for the Spring 2010 Workshops?

Click on this link for application.
Click on this link for Private Group Workshops.

What about equipment?

2008-04-02T19:02:00.006-04:00

There are some basic requirements if you are going to take a workshop on making a documentary - i.e. camera and editing equipment.

If you don't have access to your personal video camera or editing equipment start asking who you can borrow from. Ask your teachers, friends parents. Ideally you want to have as much free access to the equipment as possible as you will want to do some work on your short documentary outside of the workshops.

For those who want to particpate but have no equipment we will try to help you find some.

Many computers come with built in movie editing software, like iMovie on Mac's and MovieMaker on Windows XP.

Also think about teaming up with people who have what you need.

You'll want to take notes at the workshops too. Bring a pen and notebook.

Contact

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Contact Frances MacKinnon youthfilms@gmail.com

Workshops

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There are six workshops which will be held on 6 consecutive Saturdays beginning February 2009. (dates and location TBD) At least one person from each team must attend all workshops. It is in your best interest for everyone to attend all four.

Register by emailing youthfilms@gmail.com. Include the names and contact info of all team members. Also include which workshops you will be attending (Saturday or Wednesday)

WORKSHOP DATES

The Big Idea
Saturday, April 5th, 10:30 am - 12:30pm.
East York Alternative School, 670 Cosburn Ave, Toronto
Wednesday, April 9th (repeat) 4pm-6pm
West End Alternative, 777 Bloor St. West, 3rd Floor

Action
Saturday, April 19, 10:30 am - 12:30pm
East York Alternative School, 670 Cosburn Ave, Toronto
Wednesday, April 23 (repeat) 4pm-6pm
West End Alternative, 777 Bloor St. West, 3rd Floor

Rough Cut
Saturday, May 3, 10:30 am - 12:30pm.
East York Alternative School, 670 Cosburn Ave, Toronto
Wednesday, May 7 (repeat) 4pm-6pm
West End Alternative, 777 Bloor St. West, 3rd Floor

Final Cut
Saturday, May 24, 10:30 am - 12:30pm.
East York Alternative School, 670 Cosburn Ave, Toronto
Wednesday, May 21 4pm-6pm
West End Alternative, 777 Bloor St. West, 3rd Floor

The Rules

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The Rules are pretty simple.

1). Register for the workshops

2). Participate in all workshops

3). Make your short doc

4). Submit your final cut by deadline (2009 deadline TBD) in DVD and online format

5). Attend the film festival, showcasing the best of the submissions as determined by a panel of industry experts

Overview

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BY DEFINITION A documentary is something that 'documents' a real happening whether it's an event, a journey, a life, or a moment in history. Documentaries have been around for a long time. Often they're considered more respectable. But people are catching on.

Just ask Al Gore (An Inconvenient Truth). Or Michael Moore (Sicko, Bowling for Columbine)or Seth Gordon (King of Kong). Combined, these documentaries made hundreds of millions of dollars. People of all ages and interests have stopped mid-yawn to pay attention.

The Toronto Youth Documentary Project has been designed to give you a hands on film making experience with a Discovery Channel producer. You'll learn the important components of a documentary, what makes it different from other genres and how take your story and transform it into a short documentary film. Beyond the big ingredients of story telling, using a camera, and understanding documentaries, there is another aspect to this project: thinking about your responsibility. Is your documentary an instrument for good or evil? What you put on YouTube, or your blog, or a big screen impacts the greater viewing world. Contribute your witty, smart, passionate, hopeful or even depressing documentary. Make it count.

How long is short?

Short is exactly what it sounds like - less than 15 minutes long. But don't be fooled. A good 5 minute film can take just as long as a mediocre 60 minute one.

Welcome Student Documentary Film Makers!

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This blog has been set up for everyone to be able to read through some of the guidelines, the objectives of Documentary Project and workshop dates and details. It's also a forum for you to post your projects as they are being developed for feedback.

It will be updated frequently so please check back often.

Leave a comment if you like for suggestions or your own ideas, questions, what inspired you, etc.

Overview
The Rules
The Festival
How to Register for Workshop
FAQ
Contact

More exciting announcements will be added in weeks to come. Check back often.