What is Killer Films?
Created in 1995 by Christine Vachon and Pam Koffler, Killer Films has established itself at the forefront of American independent cinema. It has a reputation for delivering challenging, thought-provoking and original movies from filmmakers with distinctive visions. Actors and directors are attracted to working with Killer because of its experience and its fearlessness, and the way it is protective of the artistic sensibilities of its collaborators. The company has produced over 30 films for directors as diverse as Todd Haynes, Kimberly Pierce, Mary Harron, Todd Solondz, Robert Altman and John Waters. Killer's movies have been nominated for 8 Academy Awards and 20 Emmys, and won the Best Actress Oscar for Hilary Swank's transformative performance in Boys Don't Cry.
What is Massify's partnership with Killer Films all about?
We're partnering with Killer Films to produce innovative content through our film production network. That means everything from writing the scripts, to shooting the action, to performing in the scenes, will be undertaken entirely by members of the Massify community. For our inaugural production — one of several to be announced over the coming months — we're looking to produce a provocative and humorous narrative short that tells an outsider's story.
How does it all work?
Killer Films will develop and produce an original short using Massify's project platform and members of the Massify community in every production role. To begin, we need to find a filmmaker with an innovative concept who can take the lead. That filmmaker will then work with Killer's development team and the Massify community to assemble a cast and crew.
How can I get involved? How much does it cost?
You can get involved by submitting your short film concept during the Pitch Your Concept phase, or by applying to any role listed under the project during the Join the Cast & Crew phase. There is no cost to participate in this program.
What kind of film does Killer want to produce?
Killer Films aims to produce a provocative and humorous narrative short that tells an outsider's story. You can find more details in this letter by Killer Co-founder Christine Vachon. And for inspiration, check out this list of notable short films.
Why should I participate? Am I going to get paid?
This project offers a career-making opportunity to anyone in the film industry. You'll get great experience and exposure, make numerous industry connections, and work closely with Christine Vachon, a true independent film icon. You'll be credited, and we've set aside 30% of the backend for the talent in the film. Cash compensation for different roles will be spelled out as we fill those roles. The filmmaker will receive a $1500 grant while working on the film.
How will this project be developed through the Massify film production network?
The project has two major phases, mirroring Killer's own development process. In short, the process aims to identify the best concept for the project and then attach the best talent to each position. During the first phase, filmmakers will pitch their concepts with a short video and script. Once the concept and filmmaker are chosen, members will be able to submit for cast and crew roles using Massify's jobs section. You'll also be able to track the film's development from the project page as it moves from pre-production, to production, and eventually release.
How do I apply?
You can create and upload your submissions through Massify.com. If you haven't already, you will need to register, create a profile, and validate your Massify account before submitting any materials. We strongly recommend that you fill out your resume and media to showcase your experience and abilities.
I'm a triple threat: writer, director, and actor. Can I submit to be the director as well as a cast member?
Yes. Submissions in multiple phases are permitted, but once you are selected for a role, you will be less likely to be chosen for an additional one.
How will the concept and talent for this project be selected?
Submissions will be rated by members of the Massify community, with the highest rated submissions guaranteed evaluation by Killer's development team. Ultimately, Killer Films will make final selections during each phase, and in close collaboration with the filmmaker during the Join the Cast & Crew phase.
How do I rate other people's submissions?
Login to your Massify account and visit the detail page for each submission. There, you will find a star-based rating system in the main info panel — click on the stars to rate the submission. Some things you might consider in your rating concepts are originality, creativity and feasibility.
When and where will this project be produced?
This film will enter production shortly after the conclusion of the Join the Cast & Crew phase. The selected participants from all phases should plan to be available for production during this time. The film will most likely be shot in or near New York City over the course of 1-3 days. More specifics will be announced in the coming weeks.
So do I need to be from New York?
As long as you are a legal resident of the U.S. you are welcome to participate, but you'll most likely need to get yourself to New York for production. Hopefully the grant helps with that.
Where will it be shown?
Our goal is to help produce truly outstanding work, and based on that we will do our best to help secure top-tier festival exhibition. We will also put together online distribution, and are confident that the final film will attract prominent media attention. Trust us, we're not doing this just so you can send the DVD to Mom. Though of course you're welcome to do that.
What's the budget for this project?
Killer focuses first and foremost on creativity, but budget is a key factor for any production. So filmmakers, please keep in mind that we're looking for a strong, innovative concept — something that can stand alone without the help of exotic locations, special effects, or dozens of extras. Our total budget for the film is $25,000, and that goes really fast when you starting renting equipment, hiring cast and crew, and so on. We want to get as much of that budget onto the screen as possible, and you will be helping to do that. For now our best advice is to keep it simple.
How long will the film be?
We expect that the final cut will be 8-12 minutes in length.
What happens during the Pitch Your Concept phase?
During the Pitch Your Concept phase, filmmakers submit their short film ideas through Massify.com. The 10 highest rated concepts, as determined by members of the Massify community, will be guaranteed evaluation by Killer. The Killer development team, led by Christine Vachon, will then make the final concept selection from the entire pool of entries.
What are the concept requirements?
All concepts must have a title, logline, synopsis, pitch video, and script sample.
What is Killer looking for in a good concept?
Killer wants to produce a provocative and humorous narrative short that tells an outsider's story. How you interpret that is entirely up to you, just make sure your concept is original and can be produced on a limited budget!
What is Killer looking for in a script?
Killer is looking for originality, but also a strong voice, humor, compelling characters, a solid sense of place, and a cohesive narrative. And professionalism counts! Your script should be properly formatted and free of errors and typos. Script samples must be between 5 and 15 pages. And to be clear, the script sample should be about the film you're submitting, not something else you've written.
What is a pitch video?
A pitch video conveys the essence of your concept in a concise, high-impact way. It should be no more than 120 seconds in length, and might consist of either a proposed scene, you pitching your idea to the camera, or a combination of the two. Just make sure your pitch video is original and doesn't include any copyrighted materials, such as music or images whose rights you don't own.
What is a logline?
A logline is a brief summary of the project's plot with a "hook" to generate interest.
How do I submit a concept?
It's easy-just follow the instructions.
Can I submit more than one concept?
Yes, multiple submissions are allowed.
If I submit a concept, can I still apply for other roles?
Yes.
Will I be able to revise my concept once I've submitted it?
No. All concept submissions are final once submitted. If your concept is selected, you'll work with Killer to refine it as we get ready for production.
What file types does Massify accept for pitch videos? Is there a size limitation?
Massify accepts the following video formats: .avi, .mov, .mpg or .mpeg If your pitch video takes more than 20 minutes to upload, please try compressing your file.
What document file types does Massify accept? Is there a size limitation?
Massify accepts the following text formats: .doc, .docx, .txt and .pdf.
Are there any other restrictions I should know about?
If you haven't already, you must register and validate your Massify account before submitting your concept. This project is only open to legal residents of the United States.
Do ratings and comments matter?
Yes. Ratings especially matter — the highest rated concepts will be sent to Killer's development team for evaluation, and one of the key inputs in the selection decision will be the community ratings for each project. Comments don't factor into the selection process, but we track the community's reaction as a key indicator of potential.
How will I know if my concept is selected?
Don't worry, we will let you know! Someone from Massify will contact you during the notification process.
What happens to my concept if I don't win? Can I still use the idea?
If your concept is not selected, you retain all rights to your work and may use it in the future in whatever manner you see fit. (As a suggestion: we're developing this whole project on Massify and there's no reason you can't do that, too!) Project concepts will remain archived on Massify but can be removed at any time. If your concept is chosen for an honorable mention, we will ask to keep a copy of it on the Killer partner page.
What happens during the Join the Cast & Crew phase?
During this phase, actors can submit through Massify for roles in the film. They will be asked to submit their headshot, reel, and depending on the role, a short audition video. These materials will then be reviewed by the director and Killer Films to determine the cast.
How do I audition for a role?
It's easy. Click here to see a list of roles available in the film, then click the "Apply" button next to the specific role you are interested in. Complete the application requirements, submit, and you're done.
What are the audition requirements?
Actors are required to submit a headshot, reel, and depending on the role, a short audition video based on sides provided by the director.
Who will see my audition?
Only the director and Killer Films' production team will be able to view your audition — it will not be made public to the Massify community.
Can I audition for more than one role?
Yes. You are welcome to submit for as many roles as you'd like. But please, only submit for roles that meet your physical description.
Can other actors see that I have applied to this role?
When you submit for a role it will be noted on the Killer page's activity feed. However, only the director and Killer Films' production team can see the materials you submit for consideration.
Will I be able to revise my audition once I've submitted it?
No. You will not be able to revise your audition once you've submitted it — so make sure to check it over first!
What file types does Massify accept for audition videos and/or reels? Is there a size limitation?
Massify accepts the following video formats: mov, avi, mpg, mpeg and h.264. If your pitch video takes more than 20 minutes to upload, please try compressing your file.
Does my union status matter?
No. You can apply and be cast in the film regardless of your union status.
Will I get paid?
In short, yes! Cash compensation for different roles will be spelled out as we fill those roles. You'll also get great experience and exposure, make numerous industry connections, and work closely with Christine Vachon, a true independent film icon. Finally, you'll be credited, and we've set aside 30% of the backend for the talent in the film.
How long is the shoot and when does it take place?
Production will begin shortly after the conclusion of the Join the Cast & Crew phase, and the shoot itself is likely to take place over 3-4 days in the New York area.
Can I still apply if I live outside of New York City?
As long as you are a legal resident of the U.S. you are welcome to participate, but you'll most likely need to get yourself to New York for production.
Can I use the footage from the shoot on my reel?
Massify and Killer Films will provide you with an official DVD of the film upon its completion, and you can use scenes from the film on your reel as you please.
What happens during the Join the Cast & Crew phase?
During this phase, prospective crew members can submit their resumes and reels for consideration through Massify. These materials will then be reviewed by the director and Killer Films, who will use them to fill all available crew positions on the film.
How do I apply for a crew position?
It's easy. Click here to see a list of crew positions that need to be filled, then click the "Apply" button next to the specific position you would like to apply for. Complete the application requirements, submit, and you're done.
Who will see my application?
Only the film's director and members of Killer Films' production team will see your application — it will not be made public to the Massify community.
Can I apply to more than one crew position?
Definitely!
Will I be able to revise my application once I've submitted it?
No. You will not be able to revise your application once you've submitted it — so make sure to check it over first!
What file types does Massify accept for reels? Is there a size limitation?
Massify accepts the following video formats: mov, avi, mpg, mpeg and h.264. If your pitch video takes more than 20 minutes to upload, please try compressing your file.
Does my union status matter?
Unfortunately, we will only be working with non-union crew on this particular project.
How much does it pay?
Cash compensation will be spelled out as we begin filling crew positions. You'll also get great experience and exposure, make numerous industry connections, and work closely with Christine Vachon, a true independent film icon. Finally, you'll be credited, and we've set aside a percentage of the backend for the crew.
How many pre-production meetings and rehearsals will there be?
That's hard to say. Cast and crew should plan on making themselves available to production about a week prior to shooting.
Who will decide the equipment package?
The DP will work with Killer Films to determine the appropriate equipment package for the film.
Can I use the footage from the shoot on my reel?
Massify and Killer Films will provide you with an official DVD of the film upon its completion, and you can use scenes from the film on your reel as you please.
If I am a DP with my own team — focus puller, loader, digital assistant, etc — will I be able to bring my team on board?
Yes, that's definitely a possibility. It all depends on what the director and Killer Films think works best for the project.
