On next
Doc Edge Clinic: Local Lens, Global Reach: The Power of Place in Filmmaking
Thu
30
Thu 30 Nov 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Christchurch, Lumiere Cinemas Bernhardt
75 Percent
General Admission
Session one: Demystifying NZ On Air Funding
Ever look at the funding guidelines and feel lost? Despite best efforts by the drafts-people, often guidelines appear to many as hieroglyphics. This session is designed to demystify and provide useful advice as to how to navigate and apply for funding with NZ On Air. Join Glenn Usmar, Associate Head of Funding (NZ On Air), and Sarah Donaldson, Audience and Media Strategist (NZ On Air), as they help us understand what is required to qualify and submit an eligible application for funding.
Glenn and Sarah will also speak about the newly launched Aotearoa NZ /Pacific Regional Media Fund. Joining them is award-winning local filmmaker, Gerard Smyth. Gerard has produced and/or directed over 80 documentaries, both in and outside of New Zealand. Gerard will share his gained knowledge of seeking film funding with NZ On Air as well as how he has created a successful production slate.
Session two: Local Lens, Global Reach: The Power of Place in Filmmaking
In the art of filmmaking, the role of place extends well beyond the mere backdrop of a scene—it becomes an intrinsic character that shapes the narrative, forms identity, and infuses stories with authenticity. Join Thaddeus D. Matula, an Emmy and a Peabody Award-winning director, as he deconstructs a journey of creating impactful cinema beyond traditional filmmaking meccas. Thaddeus's diverse filmography spans from sports documentaries/docu-series (for ESPN and the NFL) and conservation docs (BBC) to the presently festival touring documentary “Into the Spotlight”, that brings to light the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His current and upcoming projects include sports and social commentary documentaries and a scripted enviro-thriller.
Thaddeus's talk will focus on the vital storytelling aspect of location, the architecture of narrative structure, and the role of passion in connecting with audiences. He advocates for filmmakers to view themselves as conduits of story, as a lighthouse through fog. Effective storytelling, rooted in passion and perspective, can transcend physical boundaries, encouraging New Zealand filmmakers to create globally resonant films from their local environment.
His film, "Into the Spotlight," will screen on Saturday, 2 December in Christchurch and Sunday, 3 December in Auckland. Both screenings will be followed by a Q&A. Get your tickets here.
Ever look at the funding guidelines and feel lost? Despite best efforts by the drafts-people, often guidelines appear to many as hieroglyphics. This session is designed to demystify and provide useful advice as to how to navigate and apply for funding with NZ On Air. Join Glenn Usmar, Associate Head of Funding (NZ On Air), and Sarah Donaldson, Audience and Media Strategist (NZ On Air), as they help us understand what is required to qualify and submit an eligible application for funding.
Glenn and Sarah will also speak about the newly launched Aotearoa NZ /Pacific Regional Media Fund. Joining them is award-winning local filmmaker, Gerard Smyth. Gerard has produced and/or directed over 80 documentaries, both in and outside of New Zealand. Gerard will share his gained knowledge of seeking film funding with NZ On Air as well as how he has created a successful production slate.
Session two: Local Lens, Global Reach: The Power of Place in Filmmaking
In the art of filmmaking, the role of place extends well beyond the mere backdrop of a scene—it becomes an intrinsic character that shapes the narrative, forms identity, and infuses stories with authenticity. Join Thaddeus D. Matula, an Emmy and a Peabody Award-winning director, as he deconstructs a journey of creating impactful cinema beyond traditional filmmaking meccas. Thaddeus's diverse filmography spans from sports documentaries/docu-series (for ESPN and the NFL) and conservation docs (BBC) to the presently festival touring documentary “Into the Spotlight”, that brings to light the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His current and upcoming projects include sports and social commentary documentaries and a scripted enviro-thriller.
Thaddeus's talk will focus on the vital storytelling aspect of location, the architecture of narrative structure, and the role of passion in connecting with audiences. He advocates for filmmakers to view themselves as conduits of story, as a lighthouse through fog. Effective storytelling, rooted in passion and perspective, can transcend physical boundaries, encouraging New Zealand filmmakers to create globally resonant films from their local environment.
His film, "Into the Spotlight," will screen on Saturday, 2 December in Christchurch and Sunday, 3 December in Auckland. Both screenings will be followed by a Q&A. Get your tickets here.