Q: I know I must have an experienced filmmaker and a complete novice on my team, but what should the other two be?
A: Anything you like. You choose what skills, expertise and personality you think will work best. Maybe you’ll get a Board Game expert, or maybe a fantastically quick film editor.
Q: How much do I have to pay to take part?
A: Nothing – its free. Thanks to the Arts Council of Wales, the Royal International Pavilion and Trevor Hall for making this possible.
Q: What equipment do I have to provide?
A: None. We provide everything. In fact, if you bring any equipment at all, including film cameras, props, lighting, Emir Kusturica, tea bags, we’ll confiscate it.
Q: When will I know if I’ve been successful?
A: If you've been shortlisted, we'll inform you by 6th November 2006. Final teams announced 22nd November 2006.
Q: What if I am successful but can’t make it?
A: We expect you to be sure you can make it before you apply, and expect you to turn up if selected. In really exceptional circumstances, such bubonic plague, mafia kidnap, alien abduction etc., please let us know as far in advance as possible.
Q: What if my film is not that good at the end of the lock-in?
A: We’ll still show it at the event anyway, while you hide in the toilets.
Q: What about my travel expenses to the venue?
A: These are your responsibility. We cover costs once you’re at the venue, you cover costs to get there. If short-listed, you must also get yourselves to the interviews (video-conference interviews may be arranged for shortlisted applicants outside the British Isles).
Q: Will I have any costs to cover while I take part?
A: No. We cover costs once you’re at the venue, you cover costs to get there.
Q: I really want to take part because it sounds great, but I’ve never touched film-making equipment. Can I still take part?
A: Yes, you need to get a team together that includes someone who’s experienced in film-making plus someone who has never made a film before.
Q: How much film-making experience does the experienced film-maker need to have?
A: Good question. The ‘film-maker’ in the team should have a good knowledge of making films and be fully competent handling professional film making equipment. They don’t need formal qualifications, but you do need to convince us that they’re the kind of person who will make sure your team gets a film made in restricted circumstances over three days - without breaking anything.
Q: What if I accidentally drop a twenty-grand camera down the toilet?
A: Very good question. We’re insured but you will be liable for the excess of £250. So don’t damage anything, basically. That’s one reason why your teams needs an experienced filmmaker.
Q: Where is this top-secret location where we’ll make our films.
A: Its ‘Trevor Hall’ , a Grade I Listed mansion which, since 1742, has been home to some of the most powerful and distinguished families in Llangollen. The magnificent building set in 85 acres of ancient woodland, formal gardens and grounds, with a commanding view of the entire valley. This is where you’ll eat, sleep, drink and tear out your hair for the entire time. See www.trevorhall.com.
Q: I'm having trouble finding three others to be in my team. Can you find the rest of my team for me?
A: No, we've got enough to do already, thanks. Get out there and meet some people. Its about time you met your neighbours.
Q: I'm thirteen and three-quaters. Can I take part?
A: Unfortunately not. We'd have liked to keep it open to all, but practically we aren't able to put in place all the health and saftely measures required by law to accomodate under 18s.