Free Workshop To Train Film Crew Members

My nephew was in town from Hollywood for Memorial Day.

He’s working in the movie business -- recent credits include Indiana Jones movie and G.I. Joe – on the financial side of the house. It just proves that there are other avenues into the industry that don’t begin with a casting call.

My nephew made his first movie contacts through the Memphis and Shelby County Film and Television Commission, and his first jobs were in Memphis and led to work in New Orleans, Austin and Hollywood.

Now, you can get your chance by attending a special, free June 7-8 workshop, “Breaking Into Film and Getting Your First Job.” Led by producer James Spies and sponsored by the Film Commission, the special crew training covers all aspects of the movie business.

Applications can be downloaded from the Commission’s website at www.memphisfilmcomm.org and faxed to the Commission at 527-8326 along with proof of residency and a letter of reference from a professor, teacher or work supervisor.

Deadline for your applications is June 2. If you have questions, please call 527-8300, Extension 3.

This is the first free workshop of its kind sponsored by Memphis and Shelby County Governments and offers proof of a stepped-up emphasis by local government on the movie industry in our community. In offering the workshop, Memphis joins progressive film states in offering workforce incentives that can lead to film jobs.