Taiwan Academy in Los Angeles and Film Independent co-present “Taiwan 2020 Residency in Los Angeles” to connect Taiwanese filmmakers with international film industry and help them acquire resources and professional advices for international filming, thus facilitating the development and production of their film projects. Taipei Film Commission was commissioned by Taiwan Academy in LA to select Taiwanese filmmakers for the program. After screening out some unqualified applicants, a total of 128 applications have entered final selection process. The judge committee was formed by directors Arvin Chen and Po-Chou Chi, and the director of Taipei Film Commission, Jennifer Jao. After deliberate evaluation, the committee has selected 15 filmmakers, together with 10 filmmakers on the waitlist, to participate in the residency program.
"Film Independent" is a non-profit art organization that founded the Spirit Awards in the 1980s and the LA Film Festival in 2000 and has gained recognition in the film industry. In order to support the careers of independent filmmakers and build larger audiences for independent films, Film Independent has developed a series of projects and events, including film screenings, talent cultivation and exchange programs, to sustain diversity in the film and entertainment industry.
“Taiwan 2020 Residency in Los Angeles” program was funded by the Ministry of Culture to support outstanding Taiwanese filmmakers to embark on Los Angeles, the international film industry hub. This program not only provides filmmakers with international professional trainings, participation in film forums, and local film organization visiting, but also the opportunity to build Hollywood industry connection, thus developing their film projects and access to international co-production. In sum, this program is expected to better assist and bridge Taiwanese film and television industry with international platform during the development stage.
Due to the spread of COVID-19, the residency program, originally scheduled from April 27th to May 3rd, 2020 in Los Angeles, has been postponed until July 27th to August 2nd. Changes will be further noticed following the COVID-19 situation.