The Future is Now: Shooting a Short Film in 2021

BFI Film Academy Labs | The Future is Now: Shooting a Short Film in 2021

Thanks to the pandemic, we’re not the same as we were a year ago, and neither is the film industry. We’re entering an unprecedented era, not just because of COVID-19, but because issues like on-set culture, sustainability, diversity and cast and crew well-being are being questioned like never before.

The September Lab panel discussion was all about the things you’ll need to consider when making a short film in 2021 and beyond. What impact has COVID-19 had on safety practices? How do you make sure your set is diverse and that everyone’s well-being is prioritised? What about intimacy on-screen – how do you ensure your actors feel safe on set while filming intimate content?

The panel of industry experts explained what an ideal set looks like in 2021, how to make certain you’re following best practices, and more.

Panellists:

Joshua Okpala – Intimacy Coordinator

Justin Edgar – Creative Director, 104 Films

Jane Doolan – Producer

Michelle White – Psychologist and Co-Director, 6FT From the Spotlight

Hosted by Rico Johnson-Sinclair – Race Equality Lead, BFI

Click here to see the full programme of upcoming national Labs events.

BFI Film Academy Labs

BFI Film Academy Labs are practical online sessions led by industry professionals with a focus on explaining the specifics of working in the screen industries. Sessions can take many formats: masterclasses, panel discussions, interviews or workshops. The Labs are programmed across three strands: Storytelling, Business of Film and Career Ladder.