Outline (previously known as Script Lab) is our programme to develop writing talent in the South East, with a focus on those who are underrepresented in the film industry. This year we’re supporting writers or writer-directors of Black and Asian descent.
With Outline, we aim to support up to ten writers or writer-directors based in the South East (as defined by the BFI) to develop a short film script. Participants will attend sessions in-person and online, meeting regularly to collaboratively develop their narrative ideas into treatments and, finally, a completed draft script for a short film (up to 15 minutes in length).
Outline will be led by Cassandra Johnson-Bekoe, an experienced script editor, writer and producer. Previously, Cassandra was Senior Development Producer for 59%, Daniel Kaluuya’s company, where she oversaw the slate and generated new IP across international and regional markets (find out more about Cassandra’s professional background).
Outline will begin with an in-person group session in September. Then, over the course of three to four months participants will receive one-to-one feedback sessions and peer-to-peer mentoring, as well as individual guidance and notes on script development. Participants will also attend an additional networking event to meet with the cohort from our upcoming Creative Producer Weekender (to be announced).
Applications for Outline are now closed
Who is it for?
- Participation in Outline is free and open to writers working in any creative discipline who have an idea for a short film under 15 minutes in length.
- The focus for this year and for the future is to support talent from groups who are underrepresented in the film industry. This year we’re supporting writers or writer-directors of Black and Asian descent.
- We’re looking for applications from people who haven’t yet received funding from BFI NETWORK or other major funding bodies. Previous writing experience isn’t necessary, and we encourage you to be bold and inventive with your ideas and to take creative risks.
- You must be based in the South East region (as defined by the BFI, please note this does not include London) and able to commit to attending a range of workshops, development sessions and industry events, as well as completing assigned writing work between meetings.
- Your script idea must be original, e.g. not based on existing novels, short stories or other literary works.
- This programme is for early short film script ideas, not ideas that are already in script form. If you have a more developed idea with an existing script, we suggest you consider applying for BFI NETWORK Short Film Funding when it reopens.
Course leader
Cassandra Johnson-Bekoe
Cassandra Johnson-Bekoe is a writer, script editor and producer based in South West London. After working as a bouncer to fund her Screenwriting certificate from the Met Film School, Cassandra’s way into the industry was through the Mama Youth Project in 2016. Over the years she has worked in scripted development for some of the leading production companies. Her production credits include Ted Lasso S2, Riches, Secret Invasion for Marvel Studios and The Chemistry of Death.
Cassandra has co-founded two collectives. The first, ‘The Colab’, was founded in 2018 as a diverse network for industry professionals; it currently has over 250 members. The second, ‘Black Women in Scripted’, was founded in 2020, and currently boasts over 300 members – a mix of established and award-winning writers, producers, and execs, as well as new industry talent. The collective has successfully partnered with Casarotto as well as Curtis Brown in the past to aid new writers gaining representation. In 2022, BBC Studios hosted the first Black Women In Scripted event which further boasted the profile of the collective.
Launch event
6pm, Wednesday 26 June
To coincide with Outline’s launch, we are hosting an online masterclass with Cassandra Johnson-Bekoe. The aim of this Masterclass is to provide participants with the tools to make their applications stand out. Cassandra will discuss story ideas and walk participants through the steps that every writer should take to test an idea. We will offer guidance on how to write a short, succinct outline of your idea.
This will be followed by a Q&A with Cassandra and Talent Executive Thomas Wightman who will be on hand to take any questions regarding the application process and the overall programme.
Event now passed
How to apply
Please apply via the online application form at the bottom of this page. If you like, you can download a copy of the application form below to prepare your application in advance, but you most apply via the form on this page.
The deadline for applications to be submitted will be Wednesday 31 July (11:59pm).
If you have any questions about the programme or if you need any support in completing your application (e.g. if you would like to complete it in another format), please contact us at: bfinetwork@independentcinemaoffice.org.uk
As part of your application, please also complete a Diversity Monitoring Form. We’re collecting this information to help us evaluate our work to increase diversity and inclusivity in the sector. The information you provide here will be anonymous and won’t be connected to or identifiable with your application. Thank you.
Before applying, please ensure you have read through the ‘Who is it for?’ section above and that you fulfil the criteria.
Application form
Applications are now closed for this programme.