DIRECTORS MENTORSHIP
Candid Advice for the Up and Coming Filmmaker
Meet the 2024 Mentees:
We're delighted to introduce Alesha Alexcee and Riley Jay, selected mentees of our 2024 Directors Mentorship.
Alesha Alexcee is an aspiring filmmaker newly relocated to the Twin Cities. Their background is in stand up, sketch, and improv. They bring their lived experience and their sense of humor to all the work they do. They are passionate about telling stories from marginalized groups, particularly bipoc, trans, and queer people. They are in pre-production of their short film, Transitional Age Youth, which is set to start shooting late spring/early summer 2024. They are excited to learn and explore more of their creativity and voice during this Directors mentorship.
Riley Jay is a freshly aspiring filmmaker with a background in book publishing and Cultural Anthropology. They have a love for documentaries, speculative fiction, and animation. Their favorite book is Octavia Butler's Parable of a Sower by Octavia E Butler, Their favorite song is "When Doves Cry", and their favorite food is a proper bowl of New Orleans Gumbo. Riley has lived in Saint Paul since they were 14 and Minnesota their whole life.
Alesha Alexcee is an aspiring filmmaker newly relocated to the Twin Cities. Their background is in stand up, sketch, and improv. They bring their lived experience and their sense of humor to all the work they do. They are passionate about telling stories from marginalized groups, particularly bipoc, trans, and queer people. They are in pre-production of their short film, Transitional Age Youth, which is set to start shooting late spring/early summer 2024. They are excited to learn and explore more of their creativity and voice during this Directors mentorship.
Riley Jay is a freshly aspiring filmmaker with a background in book publishing and Cultural Anthropology. They have a love for documentaries, speculative fiction, and animation. Their favorite book is Octavia Butler's Parable of a Sower by Octavia E Butler, Their favorite song is "When Doves Cry", and their favorite food is a proper bowl of New Orleans Gumbo. Riley has lived in Saint Paul since they were 14 and Minnesota their whole life.
More on the mentorship:
Two up-and-coming filmmakers will be granted the valuable opportunity to engage in insightful discussions regarding their career goals and strategies with Simone LeClaire and Atlas O Phoenix, two well-established directors based in the Minneapolis/St Paul region. Throughout five sessions, these mentors will provide guidance and support to their mentees, enabling them to develop a more profound comprehension of the intricacies of the filmmaking process, and the professional practices encompassing a filmmaker’s career. Mentees receive a $500 stipend for participating.
A mentorship like this is great for someone just starting out with film, someone who wants to add filmmaking to their art practice, or someone with experience with film and is looking for more guidance and support.
Project Period:
November 2023: 1 pre-meeting
January 2024 - April 2024: 1 mentorship meeting once a month
Requirements:
Mentees are expected to attend group sessions with their mentors and fellow mentee
Dedication and follow-through
Complete program evaluations
Eligibility:
You must be a resident of Minnesota to apply.
People who are gender non-conforming, trans, non-binary, two-spirit, genderqueer/fluid, cis-gender women, trans women, transmen, of all races.
This is an intergenerational opportunity for those over the age of 18.
What we envision:
Guided candid, honest conversations.
Guiding people on their own path, supporting them in taking sovereignty and choice over their own filmmaking process.
We want you to believe and root in the reality that this is something you can do.
What will the meetings be about:
Each session is facilitated by Simone and Atlas as a team. Conversations and topics encourage ways one can make filmmaking an integrated part of one’s life and how one can feel comfortable in whatever part of the filmmaking culture that one wants to participate in.
Who are we appealing to?
Those who have enthusiastic interests and goals connected to film, and that are expressed clearly in their application. This mentorship is great for someone just starting out as a filmmaker, someone who is looking to add film to their art practice, and/or someone who has some experience in film and is seeking more support and guidance.
Application requirements:
Applicants will use a Google Form to complete their application. This includes providing information about you, responding to questions, and sharing creative samples with us. To complete this form, you must have or create a google account. The form will save as you work on it.
You will provide us:
A Written narrative (no more than 500 words) or video response (no more than 5 min)
A submission of creative samples (up to 3 links)
Applicants can respond to the following questions in writing or recorded video:
You don’t have to answer all of these questions. They are guides, prompts, and inspirations to help you prepare what you plan to share. This is your space to tell us what you think is relevant about you and your background. Film is a medium that can be applied in many ways and many who make with this form do not identify solely as a filmmaker or as a filmmaker. If this is the case for you, please answer this in the way you identify. If you don’t answer this section, your application will not be complete.
More on optional video responses:
The video can be made on your cell phone, tablet, etc. The video should not be more than 5 minutes long. Please upload your video to Youtube or Vimeo, sharing that link. If your video is password protected, please share this so we can access your recording.
Creative Samples:
Send what you have and what you want us to learn about you. Links only. No uploads. Film submissions are preferred but if you are brand new to filmmaking or the moving image, share with us samples of your other creative forms. Or if you have no experience, feel free to use a phone to document something interesting to you or create a story you can share with us (Example: Tell us a story about an item in your home, introduce someone to us that is special to you, act out a monologue as a character of your choosing, etc).
Supports we can offer in your application:
For questions about our Directors Mentorship or a request for support requests/technical assistance, please contact us at mail@moonplaycinema.org.
A mentorship like this is great for someone just starting out with film, someone who wants to add filmmaking to their art practice, or someone with experience with film and is looking for more guidance and support.
Project Period:
November 2023: 1 pre-meeting
January 2024 - April 2024: 1 mentorship meeting once a month
Requirements:
Mentees are expected to attend group sessions with their mentors and fellow mentee
Dedication and follow-through
Complete program evaluations
Eligibility:
You must be a resident of Minnesota to apply.
People who are gender non-conforming, trans, non-binary, two-spirit, genderqueer/fluid, cis-gender women, trans women, transmen, of all races.
This is an intergenerational opportunity for those over the age of 18.
What we envision:
Guided candid, honest conversations.
Guiding people on their own path, supporting them in taking sovereignty and choice over their own filmmaking process.
We want you to believe and root in the reality that this is something you can do.
What will the meetings be about:
Each session is facilitated by Simone and Atlas as a team. Conversations and topics encourage ways one can make filmmaking an integrated part of one’s life and how one can feel comfortable in whatever part of the filmmaking culture that one wants to participate in.
Who are we appealing to?
Those who have enthusiastic interests and goals connected to film, and that are expressed clearly in their application. This mentorship is great for someone just starting out as a filmmaker, someone who is looking to add film to their art practice, and/or someone who has some experience in film and is seeking more support and guidance.
Application requirements:
Applicants will use a Google Form to complete their application. This includes providing information about you, responding to questions, and sharing creative samples with us. To complete this form, you must have or create a google account. The form will save as you work on it.
You will provide us:
A Written narrative (no more than 500 words) or video response (no more than 5 min)
A submission of creative samples (up to 3 links)
Applicants can respond to the following questions in writing or recorded video:
- What sparks your curiosity?
- If nothing was holding you back, what would be your wildest dream for yourself as a filmmaker? It’s also okay if you do not wish to identify as a filmmaker. You can still learn the art of filmmaking.
- What have been obstacles or challenges that you have experienced that have limited your filmmaking practice?
- If you have never done a film before, what has prevented you from engaging in this form of expression?
- Why does this opportunity appeal to you? What feels right about doing this now?
- Is there something specific that you are looking for with accessing a mentorship? Is there something you are looking to learn more about?
You don’t have to answer all of these questions. They are guides, prompts, and inspirations to help you prepare what you plan to share. This is your space to tell us what you think is relevant about you and your background. Film is a medium that can be applied in many ways and many who make with this form do not identify solely as a filmmaker or as a filmmaker. If this is the case for you, please answer this in the way you identify. If you don’t answer this section, your application will not be complete.
More on optional video responses:
The video can be made on your cell phone, tablet, etc. The video should not be more than 5 minutes long. Please upload your video to Youtube or Vimeo, sharing that link. If your video is password protected, please share this so we can access your recording.
Creative Samples:
Send what you have and what you want us to learn about you. Links only. No uploads. Film submissions are preferred but if you are brand new to filmmaking or the moving image, share with us samples of your other creative forms. Or if you have no experience, feel free to use a phone to document something interesting to you or create a story you can share with us (Example: Tell us a story about an item in your home, introduce someone to us that is special to you, act out a monologue as a character of your choosing, etc).
Supports we can offer in your application:
For questions about our Directors Mentorship or a request for support requests/technical assistance, please contact us at mail@moonplaycinema.org.
MEET THE MENTORS
Simone LeClaire
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Atlas O Phoenix
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ABOUT THE WORK:
Simone LeClaire has written, directed, and edited seven narrative short films, with three additional shorts and two features currently in post-production. Spanning genres from parabolic feminist fairy tales to grunge comedies, the films are roadmaps for what she learns about how to be at peace with herself. Their work has screened and been awarded at over 30 film festivals around the midwest and world, including the Indianapolis LGBTQ Film Festival, the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival, and Festival de films feministes de Montreal. Simone’s short film Bathroom Break was recognized with Best Acting, Best Writing, and Best Comedy awards on its festival circuit before receiving distribution by Tello Films in February 2022. Simone is a 2023-25 Jerome Hill Artist Fellow and is currently in post-production of her debut narrative feature, Pat & Glo Save the World, a ridiculously playful sci-fi comedy; and her debut documentary feature, Sunflower Man, a tender portrait of her uncle living with schizo-affective disorder. Locally, Simone has been invited to teach their approach to life-affirming filmmaking at Film North, Moonplay Cinema, and various educational institutions. MORE ABOUT THE PERSON: Simone LeClaire is a film director and a multidisciplinary artist. They are a writer, filmmaker, and burgeoning improv artist with an outrageously compassionate worldview. In her film practice, she directs and edits in both documentary and narrative genres, but tends to prefer the imaginative possibilities of fictionalized storytelling. They mostly build and gather their own props, finding that set decorating helps sustain their creative flow during the stress of film directing and producing. Simone is energized by exploring creative impulses and they are also an amateur cellist, a mostly untrained mezzo-soprano, and a completely untrained sketch artist who likes drawing watercolor pencil portraits of people they love. She’s also dabbled in encaustics, French and bookbinding. Their other daydreams include one day being in a folk string band, captaining a ship, and living in a woodland cottage making healing teas from herbs she recognized, harvested and dried herself. Simone continues to return to film as her primary medium. WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR IN A MENEE: I am seeking a mentee who is excited by scripted narrative film directing specifically, though film always presents the opportunity to incorporate a range of artistic interests. In narrative film directing, we have to claim space as a leader of others, and be able to see and trust ourselves in that role. I would love to support someone in taking on making a narrative film from script stages through festival distribution. I deeply enjoy conversations about the emotional and psychological challenges of artmaking, how we become aware and honest about what fears hold us back, and how we commit to moving through those fears once they are recognized. In helping films get made, I love troubleshooting and problem-solving on a case-by-case basis, and I also love taking leaps of faith and trust and seeing where we land. I am seeking a mentee who feels delighted by filmmaking and who will use this container to get to know themselves, dream expansively, and “level up” artistically in whatever ways are meaningful to them. |
ABOUT THE WORK:
Atlas O Phoenix is a highly acclaimed director, writer, producer, and editor known for creating impactful and dynamic films that explore both the shadowy and uplifting aspects of humanity, whether through fictional narratives or documentaries. Furthermore, they have also showcased their talents as an actor and performer in esteemed productions such as Dykes Do Drag (2017-2020) and The Naked I series (2018/2020). Currently, Atlas is involved in the production of a compelling feature-length documentary film and accompanying web series titled Beautiful Boi. This project chronicles their personal journey of transition and delves into the profound impact it has had on their mental well-being over the course of nearly four decades. Stemming from a deeply meaningful connection with their first love and the subsequent heart-wrenching loss of that beautiful friendship, this narrative aims to inspire and uplift audiences. Despite the challenges faced, Atlas has found strength and fulfillment in the pursuit of love for the past three years, and their resilience shines through in this upcoming project. MORE ABOUT THE PERSON: Atlas is the visionary behind Trans-LATE!, a wellness event that deliberately centers on the well-being of transgender, intersex, agender, and nonbinary individuals, as well as their allies. Combining elements of cabaret and dance, Atlas has successfully created a unique space for their communities to experience joy, revel in spontaneity, and anticipate the unexpected. This event is generously supported by the Minnesota Transgender Health Coalition, RARE Productions, Twin Cities Gay Scene, and Transcendence Cabaret. Notably, the cabaret showcases the talents of members from Transcendence Cabaret, Newbie Draggons, and highlights over 50% BIPOC performers, a rarity in the local Twin Cities scene. WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR IN A MENTEE: I am currently seeking a mentee who is enthusiastic about delving into the art of storytelling, specifically focusing on narratives that hold personal importance and resonance. Previous experience is not a prerequisite, but a strong level of commitment, follow-through, and dedication is expected. In terms of guidance, I can provide a listening ear and strive to help you navigate your innermost self, where your unique and indispensable story resides. My approach to storytelling encompasses a variety of thought-provoking questions, which serve as prompts for unearthing and unraveling the narratives lying within. This applies to narrative and documentary films: - What is a subject I am eager to explore? - How long is the anticipated duration of this creative process? - Am I the most appropriate individual to convey this story, and if so, why? - After completing the film, how do I plan to share it with a broader audience, extending beyond my immediate circle of friends and family? - Are there any film festivals that align with my personal values? - Where, when, and how can I conduct thorough research to construct a compelling narrative? - What insights do I possess about psychology and self-awareness? - Am I prepared to expose my vulnerabilities? - Am I willing to embrace my individuality? |
Why mentorship?
Mentoring is a crucial part of Moonplay’s mission. In an industry where white cis males often have the advantage of increased access to networking, our Directors Mentorship encourages participants to form and sustain important professional relationships that are anti-racist, inclusive, and collaborative. Moonplay is for those of gender identities who have historically not been given equal representation as film artists. Our goal is to support gender-marginalized filmmakers to gain or sustain access to directing careers in independent film so that there is more visibility of gender diversity in the field.
