Whether you are a writer, director or producer, at some point, you’ll need to
write a note of intention for a grant or training program. But what kind of things
you should consider to make an outstanding note? Check out this video to find out!
Hi everyone! And welcome back to another video, my name is Ani Asfura, I’m a film producer and
in this channel every Thursday I share tips and tools to help indie filmmakers build their film
strategies. So, if you want to be part of this industry and this community,
considerer subscribing. Now, let’s jump into the video.
As you know, every time you apply for a grant or a training program, laboratory or workshop,
you need to submit several documents that will give a complete idea about your film;
what is about, how are you going to make it. And one of the most important documents it’s
the note of intention. And this one, it’s all about the why, why you want to make this film.
Usually, filmmakers don’t put so much effort in creating a good and compelling
note of intention. That’s a mistake. The note of intention
it’s the backbone of your application, it’s the core of your film project.
This is the moment where you need to show your motivation
and use the power of emotion to make a connection with the people who’s going to read your note.
You need to show them your personal connection with the film
and make it clear why your film is unique and why this story needs to be told by you.
For that, I’ll share with you a few questions you should try to answer in your note of intention,
whether you are writer, director or producer.
First. Who are you? Are you the writer, director or producer? Maybe you are the
writer and the director of the film. Also, mention your previous work
that goes in the same line as your current role as a writer, director or producer.
Second. Why this film in particular? Why do you want to shoot it? Why are you willing to put
blood, sweat and tears on this? Is it related to personal experiences? Is it a true story?
Third. Why this theme? Why this location? Why this character? Everything on the story has a meaning,
so you need to be clear about how this connects with the story
and reflects the uniqueness of your film.
Fourth. Why you choose these collaborators? Actors, DP, writer, director, producer, or editor?
Number five. Who do you think this film is for
and why? Take the time to define your audience and how you plan to reach them.
And finally, number six. How are you planning to shoot it? Here, people usually get a little too
technical, and that’s not what your readers are expecting to see. How are you going to direct it?
How are you planning to finance and distribute the movie? Now, if you want to mention some technicism
like type of shots, lenses, and music, you can do it, but you should relate those to the story,
and how these decisions enhance your vision of the film. Then again, why are you using these
kinds of lens? Maybe to highlight the vertigo sensation of the story. Or why you will use a
single violin as part of the soundtrack? Maybe to create the sensation of loneliness and tension.
Lastly a few quick tips.
This is not another synopsis or explanation about what the film is about.
Use the theme to introduce the subject, but remember, everything here is about the why.
It’s a subjective point of view, meaning, use I not We.
And keep it to a one-page length. Be concise.
As you could tell, the note of intention it’s definitely one of the things to put extra effort
on it, if you really want to deliver your message as a filmmaker. So, don’t underestimate it and
invest time and passion on it so the readers can realize how unique is your vision about the story.
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