Prelude Program Application Form 2026

Prelude Application Form 2026

Thank you for applying to Prelude.

We welcome you wherever you are at. Your answers don’t need to be perfect—just honest and reflective of your thoughts and feelings. Take your time, allow for breaks, and know that we’re excited to hear from you and the stories you want to share.

Please ensure you review all eligibility, program details, and FAQ prior to applying to Prelude.

Key Links
Program Details
FAQ

Application Materials
Needed to complete your application:

8 short-answer questions
Resume/CV
2x Reference Letters and Reference Contact Information
Creative Asset
Video Introduction

1. Applicant Information

Full Name*

First NameLast Name

Preferred pronouns*

Do you identify as LGBTQIA+?*

YesNoPrefer not to respondOther

Please describe:

Do you identify as a person living with one or more Disabilities?*

YesNoPrefer not to respond

Please describe:

Do you identify as BIPOC?*

YesNoPrefer not to respond

Please describe:

Disclaimer

Prelude does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our community.

2. Contact Details

Email *

Where the confirmation will be send to

Phone number*

Preferred form of contact:*

EmailPhone CallText

Please confirm that you currently reside in the Greater Los Angeles area*

Yes, I currently reside in the Greater Los Angeles AreaNo, I do not currently live in the Greater Los Angeles Area

Prelude will not accept applications from people residing outside the Greater Los Angeles area.

How did you hear about us? *

Please let us know if you've been referred directly from an organization.

Is this your first time applying to Prelude?*

YesNo

3. Short Answer Questions

These questions help the program assess your potential fit and readiness for the fellowship. Be prepared to discuss your creative vision, past experiences, and future aspirations in detail. We strongly recommend drafting your responses in a working document before submitting them via the online application form to avoid any potential loss of information.

Creative Questions
300 words maximum per answer

1. What is a dream you have for your future? How do you integrate that vision into your day-to-day life?*

0/300

2. What’s an idea or concept you can think or talk about that makes you lose track of time?*

0/300

3. What themes or issues are you interested in exploring in your work, and how has your background shaped you as a storyteller? *

0/300

4. Describe one of your favorite memories like you would describe a movie: Who was there, what happened, where was it, what was said? Share as many details as possible.*

0/300

Program Questions
150 words maximum per answer

1. Why are you interested in this fellowship program and how do you plan to take advantage of this opportunity to support your goals? Be as specific as you can.*

0/150

2. What have been your barriers to entry into the film and TV industry? Can you describe what those barriers look like?*

0/150

3. Have you taken part in a fellowship or similar program before?*

0/150

4. Have you attended a post-secondary or intensive program in film and TV? If yes, please describe.*

0/150

4. Uploads and Work Experience

1. Resume/CV*

Please provide a detailed resume that outlines all work completed to date including any paid or unpaid creative projects. If you're needing support with resume structure, see a great resource here: https://tinyurl.com/3fhnndxu

2. Reference Letters 2x*

Please provide (2) letters of reference, one professional, and one personal detailing why they consider you a fit for this fellowship program. All reference letters must include the reference’s full name and contact information. If the candidate moves along the process, references will be contacted by the Prelude team.

5. Creative Asset

Please upload an original creative asset that shows your creative vision and identity. Examples could be in the form of a film (max 2 minutes), a 1-2 page script or short story, a pitch deck (4 pages max), a website, etc. Our team is unable to accommodate materials longer than the maximum required.

This asset must be originally produced for the purposes of this application. We will not accept previously created or published works.

Please insert a link to download these materials or links to YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, Dropbox, WeTransfer, or other online media platforms.

Upload or provide a link to your asset*

Upload a file*

Link*

6. Video Introduction

Please create a one to two-minute video introducing yourself to us. In your video, share why you’re applying to Prelude. At the end of the video, tell us about your latest obsession — it could be anything! For example, a show you just watched, a snack you can’t stop eating, or a story you recently heard that you can’t stop thinking about.

Upload or provide a link to your video*

Upload a file*

Link*

Next Steps
Upon completion, the Prelude selection committee will review applicants according to the timeline and key dates, which are subject to change. Please email prelude@tenderpictures.com if you are experiencing any technical issues with the form. The Prelude team will communicate with all recipients on the status of their application.