Oakwood Arts

OA JET PRODUCTIONS 2026 TRAINING FILM

Malcolm & Me

directed by Robin Farmer

Malcolm & Me is Oakwood Arts’ 2026 OA JET annual training film, a concept short adapted from the acclaimed novel by award-winning author and filmmaker Robin Farmer. The project brings together professional filmmakers and emerging crew members to create a high-quality narrative film while providing paid, hands-on workforce training for the next generation of film professionals.

This year’s production brings together 20 experienced film industry professionals who will lead departments and mentor 30 OA JET crew members, representing participants from the first cohort through the newest fifth cohort. Working alongside experienced department heads allows trainees to gain real-world experience across every phase of production, from prep through post-production.

Malcolm & Me also marks an important milestone for the program. For the first time, two OA JET alumni will lead departments on the annual training film. Jesse Smith (Cohort 1) will lead the Sound Department, and Jasmine Elmore (Cohort 2) will serve as Director of Photography. Their leadership reflects the long-term goal of OA JET — creating clear pathways from training to professional leadership within the industry.

The professional team supporting this production includes experienced crew members working across regional and national productions, providing mentorship in production management, assistant directing, camera, lighting, art department, costumes, locations, and post-production. Their participation ensures that OA JET crew members are training within a professional environment that mirrors industry standards while remaining grounded in education and mentorship.

This project is partially funded through a National Endowment for the Arts Arts Project Grant, which requires a 1:1 funding match. Oakwood Arts is currently seeking to raise $30,000 by March 13 to meet this requirement and fully realize the training and production goals of the film.

Your support for Malcolm & Me directly will fund crew stipends, training resources, mentorship, and production costs. Contributions make it possible for emerging filmmakers to gain professional credits, build lasting relationships within the industry, and move toward sustainable careers in film — while bringing an important new story to life.

Crew Member — $250

Become part of the Malcolm & Me filmmaking community.

Includes:
• OA JET T-shirt
• Invitation to a supporter screening
• Production updates
• Name listed on the Supporters Page

Story Champion — $500

Help champion the story and bring it closer to the screen.

Includes:
• Signed copy of the screenplay
• OA JET Productions T-shirt
• Invitation to a supporter screening
• Production updates
• Name listed on the Supporters Page

Literary Circle — $750

Celebrate the novel that inspired the film.

Includes:
• Signed copy of Robin’s novel Malcolm & Me
• Signed screenplay
• OA JET Productions T-shirt
• Invitation to a supporter screening
• Production updates
• Name listed on the Supporters Page

Special Thanks — $1,000

Receive recognition in the finished film.

Includes:
• “Special Thanks” credit in the film
• Invitation to a private screening with filmmakers
• Signed screenplay
• OA JET Productions T-shirt
• Production updates
• Name listed on the Supporters Page

On Set Guest — $1,500

Experience the filmmaking process firsthand.

Includes:
• Set visit during production
• Invitation to private screening
• Signed screenplay
• OA JET Productions T-shirt
• Production updates
• Name listed on the Supporters Page

Associate Producer — $2,500

Play a meaningful role in bringing the film to life.

Includes:
• Associate Producer credit (IMDb eligible)
• Set visit during production
• Invitation to private screening
• Signed screenplay
• OA JET Productions T-shirt
• Production updates
• Name listed on the Supporters Page

Executive Producer — $5,000

A leading supporter of the film and its mission.

Includes:
• Executive Producer credit (IMDb eligible)
• VIP screening invitation
• Set visit during production
• Signed screenplay
• OA JET Productions T-shirt
• Production updates
• Name listed on the Supporters Page