FILM 5

FILM 5 is a professional development and training program for emerging Nova Scotia filmmakers and aspiring technical crew, serving as a launching pad for careers in the industry for over 30 years. Four creative teams, consisting of a director and producer, engage in a seven-month intensive, guided by mentors and instructors to complete a short film. In the winter, crew trainee workshops take place, and participants receive placements on the four film sets, learning hands-on with mentorship from trained professionals.

Trainee Program

Beginning in the winter, the FILM 5 trainee program features introductory workshops to a variety of departments.

Team Guidelines

Applying to make a short through FILM 5? Take a look at the guidelines and application form here.

FAQs

Click here to see some of our frequently asked questions.

Make a film with the support
of the local industry

FILM 5 provides a learning experience like no other program in the province. Whether your a new graduate, or someone looking to take their filmmaking to a new level; FILM 5 is the perfect program to expand your knowledge and connections. 

FILM 5 Trainee Program 2026

Are you interested in working behind the scenes in the film industry? Looking to learn more about a specific department?

The FILM 5 Trainee Program runs alongside the creative team component each winter and spring, providing participants with classroom training from industry professionals, practical on-set instruction, and networking opportunities, with registered trainees provided a spot in the crew of one of the FILM 5s under the guidance and mentorship of skilled department heads. The films shoot on weekends throughout in April & March (each film is a two-day shoot).

How to become a trainee

  • Register for the workshops of your choice, see the options below. 

Please note: in order to be eligible for the FILM 5 Trainee Program, participants must pay their application fee & submit their application form with required documents, attend the workshop for their desired position, attend the Set Etiquette Course (if you have already completed it, please notify henry@afcoop.ca), and attend the Trainee Meet & Greet on Wednesday, March 11th at 6pm at AFCOOP.

Trainee Workshops 2026

  • Art Department Intensive
    • Weekend, February 28 & March 1 –  10am – 5pm ($150)
      Instructor: Jessica MacDonald
  • Lighting & Grip Intensive
    • Weekend, March 1 & 2  – 10am – 5pm ($150)
      Instructor: Stuart Rankin & Kelly Rose


  • Set Etiquette     will be a virtual course and provided to registered trainees

  • Trainee Meet & Greet | March 11 from 6pm – 8pm at AFCOOP
  •  
  • All workshops have an additional fee from Eventbrite

  • Questions? Email Henry at henry@afcoop.ca

Upcoming Key Dates and Application Information

FILM 5 Trainee Program

Registration is now open! See individual workshops here!

Application Form

Creative Team Application

FILM 5 Creative Team Applications are now closed for this year. They will open in September 2026.

FAQs

Do I have to be a member of AFCOOP to apply to FILM 5?

No, the program is open to the public. Once you are in Phase II one member of your team will need to become a Full Member of AFCOOP, but there will be time to do this within the program.

Can I act in my FILM 5 film?

No, you can’t hold any other role in your production other than producer, director or writer. We feel that having the experience of holding one role is valuable and challenging enough!

Can I be a student and be in FILM 5?

No, you cannot be a full time student while in FILM 5. The time commitment necessary for the program is too great to be paired with full time studies. Part-time students may be considered eligible on a case-by-case basis.

Can I raise extra money outside of what’s provided?

Yes! External funding cannot exceed $10,000 and financing cannot affect ownership. The Creative Team must retain complete creative control and ownership of the project throughout the program. Also, if you plan to use the ACTRA training agreement, your TOTAL financing cannot exceed $10,000 cash (that includes the $8,000 that the program gives you).

What’s the time commitment once you are in the program?

In the Development Phase you can expect to spend three weekends and 3 week-nights attending workshops and training sessions. All events are held after 6pm or on the weekends to allow for those who work during the day. Workshops are mandatory and failure to attend a required workshop may mean that your team is removed from the program. In the Production Phase, there are fewer workshops but you can expect to spend a great deal of time with your team prepping for your production. Some participants find it useful to take a week off from their day job directly before production in order to get everything in order.

More questions?

Email henry@afcoop.ca or call (902) 405-4474!