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MillimeterUniversal Studios Florida Production Group Announces an Independent Filmmaker Program
Jan 8, 2002 12:00 PM
Paul Meena, vice president, general manager of Universal Studios Florida Production Group has announced a program designed to benefit independent filmmakers from around the world. “We are offering a window of use of our state-of-the-art, 16,500 square foot sound stage for a flat day rate of $500, which is more than an 80 percent discount off traditional rates,” Meena said. Speaking from Sound Stage 20, the facility that has been allocated for this purpose, Meena outlined the goals of the program and the parameters filmmakers must meet to qualify.
“We are highly appreciative of the challenges of budget restraints that independent filmmakers face. They operate from a passion for their craft. Most often budget issues are their most serious challenge. This unique program is designed to alleviate that issue such that the exceptional work of these producers can be realized,” Meena said.
To qualify, production budgets cannot exceed $5 million, and 80 percent of their crew must be hired from within the State of Florida. Meena added, “This element of the program is designed to acknowledge the existing talent and the quality vendors in our community. Many of these have been here since the beginning, while others have relocated their families and businesses to Florida. We want to support this infrastructure as much as possible.”
Universal Orlando has been one of the founding sponsors of the Florida Film Festival since its inception ten years ago. The “Stage 20” program launch is another extension of support for the independent filmmakers as well as some of Florida’s indigenous filmmakers.
For the independent filmmaker on a shoestring budget, creative thinking cannot usually afford state-of-the-art production values. "Producers often write around the luxury of a controlled sound stage environment; opting for more affordable exterior locations,” comments Meena. "We believe the option of a sound stage will make a significant difference for how many of these filmmakers plan their productions."
“This opportunity will make it possible for talented, small budget producers to afford major resources via a professional sound stage. It's a remarkable concept," said Sterling Van Wagenen, who, with Robert Redford, was the founding executive director of the Sundance Film Festival has produced and/or directed feature films to include The Trip to Bountiful and Convicts. He currently serves as director of the Film Department at the University of Central Florida in Orlando.
Sigred Tiedtke of the Enzian Theater/Florida Film Festival agreed. "To be able to shoot on a professional sound stage at the rates quoted will be an absolute godsend to low-budget filmmakers. Meena and Universal Studios Florida Production Group are introducing a visionary program that will encourage low-budget production, foster the development of good stories in Florida, and provide the local filmmaking infrastructure with opportunities. Enzian and the Florida Film Festival applaud this terrific initiative."
“’Stage 20' is an initiative that supports the expansion and development of Florida's film industry workforce and burgeoning independent filmmaking community,” said Rebecca Mattingly, commissioner, Governor's Office of Film & Entertainment. “It is yet another significant incentive for producers to write, develop and produce their films in Florida."
These efforts can help increase Florida’s market share of the growing television and motion picture production industry, which accounted for $3.9 billion in 2000.
The Universal Studios Florida Production Group will also offer “Stage 20”under a separate plan to educational institutions in the State of Florida teaching secondary and post secondary film and television studies. The program will be based on availability and will support the Governor’s and the State Film Office Commissioner’s goals of their continued focus on education and the nurturing of Florida’s future filmmakers.
Independent producers may request information by contacting the Universal Studios Florida Production Group offices at (407) 363-8400 or at productiongroup@universalorlando.com. Details of the educational support program will be forthcoming.
Continue the discussion on “Crosstalk” the Millimeter Forum.