Film & TV Funding Award Overview
The Film & TV Funding Award is an annual recognition bestowed upon an emerging filmmaker worldwide, presenting the most promising pitch for a director-led documentary. Instituted in 2015 by The Whickers, the award aims to financially support and acknowledge innovative documentaries, leveraging the legacy of the pioneering broadcaster Alan Whicker. The Whickers are committed to nurturing emerging talent in the funding and production of director-led programs.
The Whickers’ Mission and Legacy
The Whickers, established in 2015, are dedicated to funding and acknowledging original and innovative documentaries. Their mission is rooted in utilizing the legacy of Alan Whicker, a trailblazing broadcaster, to provide support for emerging film and audio documentary-makers. The emphasis is on funding and facilitating the production of director-led programs.
Award Categories and Eligibility Criteria
Award Categories:
A main award with a substantial value of £100,000.
A development award for the runner-up, valued at £20,000.
Eligibility Criteria:
1. Open to filmmakers globally, encouraging international participation.
Filmmaker’s first 50+ minute documentary film, where they hold director or co-director credit.
2. Projects should be in the late development to early production stage.
3. Award money cannot be paid to an individual; various options for fund disbursement are outlined.
4. Submission requires up to six minutes of original taster footage.
5. Films must be accessible for an English-speaking audience, either in English or subtitled.
6. An executive producer must be on board during the application.
7. Shortlisted applicants must be available to pitch at Sheffield DocFest in the UK in June.
Submission Guidelines and Criteria for Evaluation
What They Look for:
Director-led Story:
1. Storyteller with strong interviewing skills.
2. Passionate yet fair-minded approach.
3. Independence and personal connection without partisanship.
4. Welcomes wry humor but strictly prohibits ‘Whicker impersonations.’
Engagement:
1. Unique access to compelling characters in unconventional locations.
2. Allows contributor’s stories to emerge authentically.
3. Demonstrates the ability to coax the human spirit into revealing itself.
4. Maintains intimacy with the subject without overshadowing.
Curiosity:
1. Demonstrates a spirit of inquisitiveness, leaving viewers wanting more.
2. Reveals something new and unexpected about the world.
3. Excites wonder and illuminates real-life drama.
Original Use of Technology:
Playful use of storytelling means, breaking new ground or reinventing old ground.
Not Partisan:
No campaigning, pre-set agendas, or political theories.
Application Deadline and Process
The deadline for submissions is January 31, 2024. Applicants can apply here.