Project Development Programme 2020
The Encounters South African International Documentary Festival
Project Development Programme 2020
in partnership with
Western Cape Government
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
25 – 28 February 2020, Cape Town
Call for Proposals
Prospective and hopeful filmmakers-in-the-making are encouraged to submit a ONE page Proposal for a short documentary film (20 minutes maximum length). Successful candidates will be tutored in the art of documentary scriptwriting, preparing a budget and writing funding proposals. All submission details and requirements are included in this document.
In order to identify and develop new entrants in the documentary industry, and with a key objective of transformation, Encounters in partnership with the Western Cape Government Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, will host a Project Development Programme. The aim of the programme is to inject the filmmaking skills and knowledge necessary for increasing opportunities, business growth and ultimately access to global markets.
The initial Workshop, led by filmmaker Riaan Hendricks, will accommodate up to six participants to develop their short documentary projects in preparation for securing development funding and to advance their careers. A second mentorship programme is designed to support and guide beneficiaries in finalising their project proposal (script, budget and funding proposal). Participants must attend Encounters Industry Programmes during the Festival taking place from 4-14 June 2020.
Participants
The programme is aimed at documentary filmmakers at the beginning of their filmmaking careers and whose projects show great potential. Two team members per project may participate. Only residents of the Western Cape may apply.
Dates
The Workshop will take place from Tuesday 25 – Friday 28 February 2020 (4 days).
Post-workshop participant-led group sessions are encouraged – for mutual support and the fostering of important professional relationships for the future.
In the period March – May, leading up to the Encounters Festival, participants will be assigned Mentors for advice and guidance as they finish their scripts and develop budgets and funding proposals. These will be presented during Encounters.
Applicants must be available for the full duration of the programmes offered. Please be mindful that absenteeism will result in exclusion from the course.
Workshop Leader
Leading the 4-day Workshop is filmmaker, Riaan Hendricks.
Biography
Hendricks is one of South Africa’s multi award winning, prolific independent film directors. The constant struggle of engaging audiences with the emotional landscapes of his characters and story – are expressed in the rich tapestry of moments engrosses his work. Riaan’s film Ramothopo the Centinarian won best feature doc award at AfriFF 2018.
Guest Tutors will be invited to input on budgeting, proposal writing, compliance, etc…
Selection
The selection committee will comprise of appointed representatives from the Industry and Encounters.
Applicants will be notified by email at least a week before the workshop.
The course includes:
- course materials
- meals (teas, coffees and lunch)
- mentorship programme
- invites to Encounters industry programmes and functions
- transport allowance (if necessary)
Submitting Applications
Application Deadline: Wednesday 12 February, 5pm
Submit to: pa@2020.encounters.co.za
Applicants must submit:
- 1-page synopsis
- 1-page biography for each of the two key project team members, e.g. Producer(s), Director
- Complete Contact details
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
For further enquiries please contact Nazeer Ahmed (021) 418 3310