Writing & Directing Grant
The MPI Short Film Lab
As we head into the new year, most people are focused on landing or keeping a job that pays the bills. And that’s important!
But it’s also important to develop creative skills that will help us grow in our career. And that’s why I wanted to tell you about the short film lab from MPI.
It’s a three-stage program. First, there are writing workshops, where you’ll develop your script under the guidance of the MPI development team and screenwriting mentors. Then, six to eight writers will be selected for the directing workshop, where you’ll learn to prepare for pre-production, production, and post-production. Finally, MPI will choose one official selection from the lab, and that filmmaker will receive a grant of $10,000.
Applications are due on Friday.1 It’s free to apply, and you can even submit more than one project.
Silenced Voices: The Fight for Free Speech and Expression in a Digital Age
This year’s theme focuses on stories about Free Speech and Expression. We encourage storytellers to explore the power of open dialogue and the ways people push back against restrictions on expression. Through these stories, we celebrate the resilience of those who champion free speech and foster meaningful conversation in today’s divided world. You can submit a story in any genre, except documentary. The possibilities are endless—this theme is your starting point, and where you take it is up to you.
Priority will be given to projects that:
Feature a limited cast (fewer than five principal actors), with limited or no extras
Have limited locations (ideally one)
Can be shot within two days in the LA–area
Tell stories about characters within the US
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: January 3, 2025, 11:59 p.m. (PT)
Submissions will not be accepted after the deadline.
Please submit no more than three concepts per applicant, with each pitch as a separate application.
Documentary shorts will not be considered for the Short Film Lab.
Sorry for the short notice; holidays and all that.