HBOAccess Seeks New, Diverse Storytellers

New York, NY – HBO began accepting applications today for its new 4-week HBOAccess™ program, which targets diverse, emerging filmmakers.

The submissions period will close either when its cap of 500 applicants is reached, or on March 3, 2014 – whichever comes first.

HBOAccess aims to provide project development, master classes and mentoring for promising storytellers who may not otherwise find their way through the halls of HBO.

Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of camera, scripts and complete all submissions via the Without A Box website, HBO said.  A resumé or bio, along with one narrative directing sample (full-length feature, short or webisode), is required. Candidates must own and assign to HBO all rights necessary to develop and produce their idea if selected.

During March, 20 candidates will be chosen to advance to second-round interviews. During these in-person (or Skype) sessions, each will be expected to discuss their projects in detail.

The competition will culminate in May with the selection of up to 4 finalists, each of whom will be given a budget to create short-form content for the network.

Upon acceptance and agreement to the HBOAccess rules, each will be paired with an HBO development executive who will serve as his or her mentor.

During the program, which runs from June 3 through June 26 in Los Angeles, the filmmakers and executives will develop submitted projects together.

Participants will attend a series of master classes taught by HBO executives and creative talent. And at the program’s completion, each project will be considered for production as a 10-15 minute film or web series to air on various HBO cable and digital platforms.

Each participant must live in Los Angeles area during the entire program and production period. Travel and accommodations are the responsibility of individual.

“In the great tradition of HBO, we have created HBOAccess to find the next generation of new and powerful voices,” said HBO Programming president Michael Lombardo.

“I believe this undertaking will serve as a valuable experience not only for those who are chosen to participate,” he continued, “but for us at HBO as well.”

For more eligibility information, please visit WithoutABox.com.