LFS launches FAST FORWARD PRODUCING: The Whole Story

The London Film School has launched a new Skillset-funded programme for producers.  Fast Forward: the Whole Story is a complete, modular course for twelve new creative feature film producers, running from June to December 2012.

In nine workshops, sequential but self-contained, twelve selected producer participants will learn from recognised industry experts the detailed reality of each stage of production, and how it connects to the stages before and after. Industry mentors will guide participants as they develop their portfolio to the point where their projects are fully researched and ready to seek development finance.   The twelve participants will also have an opportunity to produce an LFS Graduation Film, one of about 35 to 40 made each year at the school.   Uniquely, the course incorporates a module on Creative Identity, Self-Presentation and Career Management for Producers, developed for the LFS by creative career coach Shiona Llewellyn, author The Skillset Career Handbook. 

Confirmed industry tutors so far include: Amy Hubbard (casting director The Hobbit); Angus Finney (author The International Film Business);  Colin Vaines (producer Coriolanus);  Ian Hutchinson (Silver Reel Equity); Ian Neil (music supervisor Control, Kick Ass); John Graydon (RSM Tenon Media);; Keith Northrop (Film Finance & Production, Goodman Derrick LLP); Louise Lawrence (LFS Head of Archive and Library); Luke Randolph (International Film Guarantors); Meg Clark (post-production supervisor 4,3,2,1, Coriolanus); Mia Bays (marketing consultant Tsotsi, creative executive, Microwave); Paul Sarony (line producer Welcome to Sarajevo); Rebecca O’Brien (producer The Wind That Shakes the Barley); Steve Clark-Hall (co-producer Sherlock Holmes and Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows).

Course Director Archie Tait, LFS Head of Workshops, said  “Fast Forward Producing – The Whole Story is looking for the next generation of UK feature film producers.  The participants will probably be already working in the industry – but it is just as likely that they will come from exhibition, distribution or marketing as from production management or script development. We want ambitious new producers from all areas of the UK, already planning the kinds of film they want to make, with a wide diversity of personal backgrounds.  What they will all have in common is their love and knowledge of the movies.”

Dan Simmons, Head of Film (Acting) at Skillset, said ““Developing creative talent and encouraging diversity within the industry are major priorities for A Bigger Future 2, Skillset’s UK film skills strategy. Fast Forward Producing: The Whole Story supports emerging creative producers at that crucial stage in their careers when they are growing their ambition and developing their first slate of feature films. The training delivered by The London Film School, a Skillset Film Academy, will give participants a deeper understanding of the business of our industry and the solid foundation they need to help them secure future success in the film industry.”

Deadline for applications is 23 April 2012. For more information go to - www.lfs.org.uk/courses/fastforward or email '; // -->