ITV has today launched a call out for up and coming Black filmmakers, offering them the opportunity to helm one of five new films that the network will commission for Black History Month 2022.

ITV are keen to create opportunities for Black talent who are ready to produce and direct their first film and have not been previously commissioned by ITV. They should be able to demonstrate that they have relevant experience to step up into the role, for example with previous experience as a Shooting AP or DV director.

Non-traditional television experience, where the candidate can demonstrate relevant experience both in terms of technically being able to make the films and editorially being able to deliver strong and compelling narratives, will also be considered.

The five films will air in October 2022 as part of a new Fresh Cuts strand, showcasing the work of behind the camera talent, new to ITV.

The network is looking for contemporary and innovative ideas on any subject to reflect the range of Black British lives today. A full editorial brief will be made available on February 21st, including details of how to apply, as well as details of a webinar being hosted on February 22nd, where interested people can hear more (and sign up via this form)

Factual Entertainment Commissioning Editor Satmohan Panesar has collaborated on the strand with ITV Studios and ITV’s Creative Diversity team, led by ITV’s Group Diversity Director, Ade Rawcliffe.

Satmohan Panesar said: “’I’m excited to bring a new approach to our programming this year for Black History Month, focusing on bringing future talent and authorship opportunities for up and coming filmmakers to the fore.”

Ade Rawcliffe said: “We of course want to ensure that we are representative of our audience all year round, but we are excited to have created the opportunity to work with Black talent that haven’t been commissioned by ITV before to make contemporary and popular content for our Black History Month programming this year.”

ITV Studios UK Unscripted Director Angela Jain is supporting the series, with ITV Studios on board to provide the production support as well as offering mentoring for the chosen filmmakers.

ITV Studios Creative Diversity Partner Nahrein Kemp is creating a bespoke training support package to support the selected filmmakers.

The closing date for ideas is March 18th.

ENDS