Lights, Cameras – Connecticut!

Governor Rell Visits Set of Film School

at Quinnipiac University

Governor M. Jodi Rell went behind the scenes today of a movie production set at Quinnipiac University to visit with students participating in the Connecticut Film Industry Training Program.

The popular course, launched July 7, was putting the wraps on its final day with high-definition shooting from the short film, “Gamers.” The filming took place in the law school cafeteria.

“From the day we announced this program, we knew it would be a big hit,” Governor Rell said. “We took in hundreds of calls from around the state. Everyone wanted to be a part of what is becoming a very important industry here.”

The first-of-its-kind course was designed for Connecticut residents who want to learn the basics of feature and episodic television film production. The program, administered by the Connecticut Office for Workforce Competitiveness, is taught by award-winning industry professionals.

The course also was taught at Middlesex Community College and Norwalk Community College. Of the more than 500 applicants, the state selected nearly 150 for the inaugural class. The Governor said the state intends to offer the course again next year.

“Our film tax credits continue to successful in attracting new production companies all the time,” Governor Rell told the students. “What we are developing with all of you is a ready-made skilled workforce.”

Students learned about production management, production office coordination, location management, camera, sound, lighting and grip. Graduates earned a certificate from the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism Film Division and are eligible for up to 10 weeks of on-set mentoring on feature films or TV episodes shot in Connecticut.

According to the state Film Division, there were 24 feature film and television productions shot on location in Connecticut in 2007 and seven on location so far this year.

          “There are tremendous career opportunities awaiting all of you right here in our own backyard,” Governor Rell told the class. “You want to make movies, we want to create jobs. I am confident we are both headed for a great success.”