When Oscar winner Jordan Peele’s anticipated film Nope went into production last year in Southern California, it welcomed the first cycle of trainees from Universal Filmed Entertainment Group’s California Below-the-Line Traineeship for individuals seeking careers behind the camera.The new program—which NBCUniversal’s Global Talent Development & Inclusion department developed in concert with the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, Hollywood Cinema Production Resources, and assorted IATSE locals—was introduced as part of the media and entertainment conglomerate’s overall commitment to increasing diversity, equity and inclusion within all areas of production.One member of the non-profit ARC, working to end mass incarceration in California, and five students of the non-profit Hollywood CPR—focused on educating aspiring artists, craftsmen and technicians, and creating pathways to employment—were selected to take part in the Nope traineeship, with each being assigned to a specific department based on their area of study or interest.Jordan Peele Unveils Title For Next Movie In Poster RevealAll trainees taking part in Universal’s program were—and will be—paid for their work, the duration of their time on set varying on each production.
The selection process for the first round included interviews with production executives, relevant stakeholders and the heads of their respective departments.
Upon admission, trainees were invited to participate in production meetings, departmental meet-and-greets and relevant health and safety trainings.
Each was also assigned a GTDI and HR partner to ensure the experience was as rewarding as possible.The California Traineeship’s launch on Nope served as a model for interested domestic and international
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