WHY SHOULD I PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM?

The program is tailored to the specific needs of the projects and directors selected but the magic happens when collaboration amongst senior film makers sparks new ideas and fresh directions for each project.

IS THIS A FULL TIME PROGRAM?

No, the program is designed to allow directors to pursue other projects.  The resident portion of the program is centered on  four to six, intensive, two to three day modules.  The program begins with a one-day orientation session in November 2010 after the participants have been selected. The timing of the subsequent modules over the next twelve months will be determined by the availability of the participants.

DOES MY PROJECT NEED TO BE FEATURE LENGTH TO BE CONSIDERED?

No, the program is focused on developing the form and the creative process behind successful documentaries.  Original, complex and distinctive work is being done in mid-length documentaries that push conventional boundaries.  And increasingly, a medium is emerging with its own documentary language and challenges: documentaries for the web.  The documentary program will encourage multi-platform applications as well as the possibility of a web only project. However, the development of feature-length work – in some ways, the most demanding storytelling form - remains the primary focus of the program.

WILL SERIES PROPOSALS BE CONSIDERED?

No. Developing unique directorial voices and specific individual projects is the vision of the documentary program. Documentary series are outside its mandate.

WHAT IS THE CONTENT OF EACH MODULE?

Content is customized to the needs of each individual project. Program content is fluid and flexible and designed in collaboration with the successful applicants based on their creative process and the specific opportunities and challenges posed by their projects. 

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF CREATIVE MENTORS AND SPECIALISTS?

Each director plays a role in the selection of creative mentors who will be paired with each participant. Creative mentors will participate in at least two modules and are available for consultation during the supported inquiry phase of the program. Specialists may lead individual sessions during each of the four to six modules according to their specific expertise.  The specialists may include: producers, researchers, writers, directors of photography, web designers, sound engineers, editors, composers, video-post production engineers, and other industry professionals.

IS THERE A COST FOR PARTICIPANTS?

No, the Canadian Film Centre and the National Film Board fund the program. A participant fee, valued at $5,500 will be waived for successful applicants. The program budget includes provision of up to $15,000 in cash and services to support limited development of projects. i.e. shooting and editing of a demo. Participants are responsible for transportation and accommodation costs to attend the program modules.

ARE PRODUCERS OR OTHER CREATIVE COLLABORATORS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

No, the program is designed to support the director’s vision of creative documentaries. However, provision may be made to include team members in the program. For instance, a producer, writer, editor or director of photography may be integral to the director’s creative process and would therefore be eligible to attend. To maintain an intimate and focused atmosphere in each module, directors are encouraged to select only one team member to accompany them to each session.

ARE PROJECTS ALREADY IN DEVELOPMENT ELIGIBLE?

Yes. The program is aimed at enhancing the viability of documentaries at any stage of development. A preference will be given to projects that will benefit from the “think-tank” nature of the process of sharing ideas and expertise amongst the participants and specialists who will attend.