Amazon Studios and the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) revealed details about the LALIFF Works in Progress, a fund to assist independent US-based Latino filmmakers with the completion of feature films.“We are very excited to announce the expansion of our collaboration with Amazon Studios through the inaugural LALIFF Works in Progress initiative," Academy Award nominated actor, founder of the Latino Film Institute and co-founder of LALIFF, Edward James Olmos said. "By supporting this program, Amazon is supporting our work as we continue to elevate Latino voices in a landscape where it's difficult for filmmakers from our community to secure post-productions funds."
The fund will allow Individual directors and independent production companies to submit a "picture locked cut" of their feature length scripted or documentary film. All funds will be allocated to films in the final stages of production with a unique directorial voice, cultural significance, and commercial viability. A jury of post-production professionals will then distribute the funds among the three top projects, based on their post-production needs.
Funds recipients will be announced at this year’s LALIFF, which is presented by the Latino Film Institute (LFI) and takes place in Los Angeles 31 May- 4 June. “At Amazon Studios we strive to remove barriers to success in the creative process. It is part of the equity work we are committed to doing” Global head of DEIA for Amazon Studios and Prime Video, Latasha Gillespie, said. “LALIFF Works in Progress is a compelling example of our Inclusion Policy and Playbook in action.”
LALIFF Works in Progress serves as an extension of Amazon Studios and LFI’s collaboration. Amazon Studios serves as the exclusive sponsor of LFI’s Youth Cinema Project (YCP) Alumni program for the 2022-2023 school year. The program connects over 300 students to hands-on access and learning opportunities across the industry, including mentoring and assistance with college applications. The sponsorship also includes the inaugural YCP Fellowship initiative, which provides 19 college bound students with resources to make a high-quality short film to strengthen their film school applications and scholarship opportunities. The finished film will screen at LALIFF in June.