The SPARK Short Film Initiative stands as a much-anticipated cornerstone in the Northern Territory (NT) screen industry’s calendar for professional development. As always, the SPARK Short Film Initiative is aimed at offering scaffolded support, access to best-in-field knowledge and equipment as a structured pathway for the career advancement of successful Northern Territorian participants.
Traditionally featured as a pivotal element of the annual Darwin International Film Festival, this year marks the second year of Screen Territory assuming the administration of the program.
The core objective of the SPARK Short Film Initiative remains steadfast – to bolster emerging filmmakers by extending financial support and mentorship, facilitating the realization of their short film projects.
For the 2024 edition of SPARK, the thematic focus of the initiative centres on the concept of ‘Courage'.
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What is included
Three successful SPARK recipients will be provided with $30,000 in production funding to produce a 10-minute short film.
They will also have the opportunity to work with an experienced screen industry Story Development mentor, assigned an Executive Producer, be provided feedback from an experienced industry Editor. The films will also have access to the expertise of Trackdown, Rainfall Creations and The Post Lounge.
To further support the success of the selected films, each production will also be provided with $10,000 of equipment rental from Panavision, one of the world's premier camera and lens suppliers for the film and TV industry. Panavision will also provide a technical and creative consultation prior to the principal photography of each successful film.
At the end of the program, the completed short films will be screened at a showcase event during the Darwin International Film festival program.
This event will be attended by industry professionals and the public alike.
The SPARK Short Film Initiative aims to provide an opportunity for emerging filmmakers to not only gain experience, but also to build their portfolio and connect with seasoned industry professionals.
The Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) is partnering with the initiative this year by providing each team with a Cinematography Mentor for their consultation during pre-production and the production period.
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Who can apply
To apply you:
- must meet the Screen Territory terms of trade PDF (1.0 MB)
- must not have any current outstanding acquittal with Screen Territory or any other Northern Territory Government agency
- and the project's crew, must be comprised of residents of the NT and proof of residence may be required to validate this.
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How to apply
To apply:
Step 1. Read and fulfil the SPARK Short film guidelines 2024 PDF (3.6 MB)
Step 2. Apply on GrantNT