MPI Rising Filmmaker Program Strengthening Our Network of Pro-freedom Filmmakers T he Rising Filmmaker Program (RFP) has built an impressive network of filmmakers passionate about creating films that reflect
MPI Internship and Mentorship Programs Cultivating Independent Voices in Film M PI’s support for emerging filmmakers often begins through the Hollywood Career Launch Program (HCLP)—the entry
By keeping all the filmmakers that participate in RFP programming connected through events and ongoing professional development, MPI has built a powerful mission-aligned network. RFP alumni collaborate on each other’s projects, recommend one another for jobs, and bring MPI’s values into writers’ rooms, sets, and executives’ offices— advancing the ideals of freedom through the stories they tell and the careers they build. To continue strengthening this community, the RFP offers the Advanced Filmmaker Program, the Rising Executive Program, and the Producer’s Playbook as well as masterclasses and networking events throughout the year. Through a combination of creative development and practical training, MPI’s RFP equips filmmakers with the skills, experience, and connections needed to thrive—while fostering a strong network of alumni united by their commitment to advancing the ideals of freedom through film.
themes of freedom. On average, the program attracts 80 emerging filmmakers—directors, writers, producers, and aspiring executives— each year, offering them training, mentorship, and opportunities to advance their projects and careers. Many of them have gone on to earn Oscar and Emmy nominations, Nicholl Fellowships, Student Academy Awards, and official selections at major festivals including SXSW and Tribeca. For those just starting out, MPI’s Hollywood Career Launch Program introduces students and recent graduates to the industry through internships on MPI sets and at leading studios. As filmmakers progress, MPI offers an expanding slate of intensive labs and targeted workshops in writing, directing, and producing—designed to sharpen their craft and prepare them for production.
point for liberty-minded college students and recent graduates who want hands-on production experience on the sets of MPI Original films and at major industry studios. This year, 23 interns earned placements with MPI Original Films or partner production companies and participated in the Academy Gold Rising initiative, gaining access to panels, screenings, networking events, and behind- the-scenes tours. Many alumni of this program now hold influential positions in the industry, carrying forward MPI’s values and advancing freedom through their work— for example, serving in roles such as executive assistant to the CEO of Fox Entertainment, production staff on NBCUniversal’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon , or office production assistant at Apple TV.
Mentors and mentees gather at the inaugural Mentorship Summit.
This year also marked the launch of MPI’s Mentorship Program, connecting emerging talent—many of them MPI internship alumni—with seasoned industry professionals for one-on-one guidance. The program began with the first-ever Mentorship Summit, a weekend of professional development and creative reflection. Mentorships continued virtually throughout the year with monthly meetings and readings on filmmaking and freedom.
Rising Filmmaker Program by the Numbers
My MPI internship was my introduction to Hollywood. MPI took a chance on someone with no experience (but a whole lot of passion), provided me with a summer internship specifically tailored to my skills and interests, and then provided constant supplemental support in the years since. In the past eight years, I’ve attended numerous MPI events that have expanded my network, introduced me to rising filmmakers, and created a sense of community that has helped me navigate my career. —CARLY HICKS, HCLP ALUM AND CREATIVE ACQUISITIONS COORDINATOR AT NBCUNIVERSAL
1,132 FELLOWSHIPS PROVIDED
352 INTERNSHIPS GRANTED
*since program inception
Moving Picture Institute
20
2025 Annual Report
Moving Picture Institute
21
2025 Annual Report
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