07/04/2015 - Initiative is in partnership with the Wellcome Trust and the Beltane Public Engagement Network

The 69^th Edinburgh International Film Festival (June 17-28) in association with the Wellcome Trust and the Beltane Public Engagement Network is launching the Wellcome Trust Ideas Lab aimed at established screenwriters and writer/directors where they will get an opportunity to develop story ideas by immersing themselves in the world of biomedical research. The Lab is a workshop at which Scottish-born or based writers and directors will be able to connect and collaborate with experts, be inspired by the latest scientific developments and explore film ideas covering topics in contemporary life science, including sex, death, memory and love.

Mark Adams, EIFF Artistic Director said, “This new partnership offers a wonderful opportunity for screenwriters and we look forward to seeing the results. It will be a fantastic environment to explore new thoughts and concepts as well as discussing story ideas.”

Simon Chaplin, Director of Culture & Society at the Wellcome Trust, said: “Ideas - whether for a film or in the lab - can be sparked by many things, but we think they truly thrive when there is time to explore and experiment. Ideas Lab is a rare chance to provide writers and directors with the opportunity to take that time, to make connections with researchers and to be inspired.” 

Ideas Lab will run between 18 and 19 June within the overall framework of the festival. There will be some places available for producers or agents to nominate talented Scottish born or based writers to participate in the programme.