An incubator for first-time feature filmmakers.

FAQs


Can anyone apply?

Only filmmakers with no previously produced feature films can apply. All applicants must be over 18 years old and current residents of the United States or Canada.

Who do you consider an emerging filmmaker?

We consider an emerging filmmaker anyone who is looking to break through in the industry and has yet to have the chance. We encourage you to apply regardless of your age.

Do applicants need to be US citizens?

Citizenship is NOT a requirement to apply.

What does the application process look like?

The application process will be divided into three rounds:

• Round 1: An open call for submissions, where applicants will share a short video pitch (under five minutes) outlining their project concept, the story, and their personal connection to the material. At this stage, applicants will also submit a logline and some supporting information. (See below for more details on what to include in the video.)

• Round 2: Selected applicants will be asked to submit a completed original feature screenplay, with the option to include a visual deck.

• Round 3: A smaller group of finalists will be invited to virtual interviews. Fellows will be chosen following these conversations and invited to participate in our residential intensive in Lake Arrowhead, California in 2026.

What should I include in my video pitch?

Your pitch does not need to have high production value. We actually encourage you to keep it simple. A smartphone or computer recording of you speaking directly to the camera is perfect. What matters most is that you can communicate succinctly why this story matters to you, why you are the one to tell it, and the essential elements of your plot.

You will not be judged on performance or presentation style, only on the substance of the story you’re describing.

Suggested structure for your pitch video:

• Introduce yourself and personal connection to the story (about 1 minute)
• Share the logline and plot of your story (about 3 minutes)
• Explain the themes and ideas you explore in your script (about 1 minute)

Because of the high number of applications we receive each year, your video pitch forms the core of our initial review process. Each application is carefully reviewed by multiple readers before advancing, and we approach the process with the intention of honoring the care and effort you’ve put into your materials. We also see this step as essential practice: being able to talk about your work is a vital skill for filmmakers.

Note: If recording a verbal pitch isn’t an accessible option for you, you’re welcome to submit a written pitch instead.

Is there a page limit for screenplays?

Yes. For Round 2, invited applicants may submit a screenplay of up to 120 pages in standard screenplay format.

Can writing teams apply?

Yes! Writing teams of up to two people are welcome to apply.

Any genre?

Yes.

Can I resubmit a project I applied with previously?

You may resubmit a project you’ve applied with before, but only if there have been substantial changes to the draft. We will ask you to inform us if this is a resubmission and describe the changes that have been made.

Television pilots?

Not accepted at this time - sorry!

Any language?

Yes, but an English translation will be required in order to be considered.

How will I know if I’ve advanced to the next round?

You will be notified directly through the application platform, along with instructions for submitting the required materials for the next round.

What will each filmmaker (or filmmaking team) earn from going through this program?

Each filmmaker (or filmmaking team) will enter a 7-month development period with Antigravity Academy, beginning with the residential intensive in May and concluding with a period of industry exposure and final draft submission in November.

Following the intensive, filmmakers will work closely with the Antigravity Academy development team on multiple subsequent drafts of their screenplay. This includes one-on-one meetings to discuss feedback and next steps, as well as virtual peer sessions moderated by Antigravity to foster continued collaboration and support within the cohort. Throughout the program, filmmakers will receive guidance from the Antigravity Academy team, along with select industry mentors who will be paired with their projects.

As projects move toward their final submission stage, Antigravity Academy can support fellows by giving feedback on visual materials and individualized support based on each project’s needs. During the industry exposure period, Antigravity will facilitate meetings with film industry professionals including executives, producers, financiers, and representatives with the goal of helping fellows position their project for production.

While the formal development period with Antigravity lasts for seven months, the relationship doesn’t end there—you’ll always be part of the Antigravity crew.

Who will be the program mentors?

Leading industry filmmakers will be paired with projects according to themes, genre, and style. Mentors will be announced in the Spring of ‘26.

Where/When will the camp happen?

A private resort in Lake Arrowhead, California from May 27th to June 1st, 2026.

Do I need to pay for anything?

Lodging, travel, program activities and meals at the intensive are covered by Antigravity Academy.

For the residential intensive, if I require ADA accessibility accommodations, will these be provided?

Yes.

What will happen during the intensive?

Antigravity will design a 6-day schedule complete with workshops, panels, screenings, meals, recreational activities, and story-crafting sessions. You’ll collaborate with your mentors and the Antigravity Academy development team to elevate both your project and your artistic voice through formal 1:1 sessions and casual in-between moments around the campus.

What will development look like following the intensive?

After the intensive, filmmakers will complete additional drafts of their screenplay on a schedule set collaboratively during the program. This period includes detailed notes from the Antigravity development team on each draft and six virtual sessions in total: three one-on-one meetings with the Antigravity team and three peer sessions with the cohort.

What will happen during the exposure period at the end of the program?

By this point, all projects will have a new draft of their screenplay completed. The industry exposure period will respond to the needs of each fellow and project, and introductions can be made to representatives, producers, and financiers to broaden the network of fellows as they get their projects off the ground.

Will I give away the rights to my screenplay if I participate in the program?

No.

Will I be required to produce my film with Antigravity Academy?

During the Camp term, Antigravity will have the opportunity to attach to the project as the lead production company, but this is not guaranteed. Additionally, you are not obligated to produce your project with Antigravity if such an opportunity is offered. If you agree to have Antigravity Academy as production partner on the project, a producer attachment deal will be negotiated in good faith. If you wish to bring on other production companies onto your project during the development period, you may, but it may impact the possibility of Antigravity’s involvement.

Ultimately, the decision will be yours.

Do you have more questions that aren’t answered here?

Please email incubators@antigravityacademy.co and we’ll be happy to respond promptly!