Gucci Tribeca Documentary Fund - Frequently Asked Questions
Is my project eligible?
The Gucci Tribeca Documentary Fund is seeking feature-length documentaries that are in production or post-production with the intended premiere exhibition in late 2011 or 2012. Eligible films highlight the most critical, important stories affecting the world we live in today in a humanizing, illuminating way. We are looking for films which challenge the status quo not just as pertains to subject matter but also in form. Films should be commercially viable and resonate with a mainstream U.S. audience.
We DO support:
- Films that highlight and humanize issues of social importance from around the world through complete, thoughtful and dynamic storytelling
- Films that focus on issues that may not be extensively covered by the mainstream media or well understood by the general public
- Films that focus on people who are ignored, ostracized or otherwise marginalized or people fighting for political or social justice
- Commercially viable films in production or post-production
We DO NOT support:
- Short films or student projects
- Films that choose advocacy over story and craft
- Films completed before January 1, 2011.
What are some examples of films that would qualify for funding?
Please refer to our previous grantees to get an idea of the types of films we fund.
In order to be eligible, what anticipated length should my film be?
The Fund is designed to support feature-length films with an intended length of at least 70 minutes.
Are films in development or early in production eligible for the Fund?
No, the Fund is designed to provide finishing funds to films that have completed a substantial amount of production or can show a suitable amount of “A” footage to support their proposal.
Are student films eligible for the Fund?
No, unfortunately we do not accept student film submissions.
What if I am turning my grad thesis into a feature?
Yes, grad theses being turned into feature films are eligible for the Fund.
If I am a first time filmmaker am I still eligible to apply?
We encourage both seasoned and first time filmmakers to apply for the Fund.
Are international productions eligible for the Fund?
Yes, international productions are eligible. All sample work provided must have English subtitles and be suitable for an American audience. The Fund will only consider proposals written in English.
Are animated documentary films eligible to apply?
Yes, animated documentary films are eligible, but they must be feature-length.
Submissions
How do I apply?
An application for the Gucci Tribeca Documentary Fund consists of forms that must be completed and uploaded online, as well as materials that must be delivered to the Tribeca Film Institute office.
What is a proposal/treatment?
Your written proposal is separate from your online application; both are required. While the online application provides us with a reference for your information, the proposal/treatment is your chance to fully introduce your film and yourself. Your proposal/treatment should provide a clear overview of what happens (or you intend to happen) in your story from start to finish, introducing all of the major characters and covering all of the major plot points. It is important that you not only lay forth the characters and major beats, but link them together in a way that reflects the tone and style of the story you intend to tell. Treatments that are too short or are vague will not be considered strongly. Your proposal is usually read before your work sample is viewed, so it is your chance to explain context, production notes and your approach to the film.
Why do I have to request a specific amount of money from the Fund?
One of our main goals is to ensure that our funding will have the best possible impact on your film. We therefore ask that you submit a short break-down of how you will use the requested money. Final decisions on all dollar amounts to funded projects will be decided by TFI and the Selection Committee.
Can I request funding to be applied towards outreach, marketing or distribution?
No, funds can only be applied towards the completion of a film.
I have both a trailer and a rough cut ready- which one should I submit as a sample?
If you have both a trailer and a rough cut, please provide both- on the same disc, marked as separate choices in the menu. Please also write/print on the disc itself to note that both trailer and rough cut are included.
I do not have a 7 minute trailer completed at this time- what should I provide as a sample?
We need a sample from the proposed film, so that we can understand your project and your stage of production. We ask for a trailer, at least 7 minutes long, as such a sample is usually able to convey the subject, approach and scope of the project. Alternately we are happy to look at scene selects or an assemblage. We encourage you to send as much footage for us to look at as you are comfortable sending.
Can I provide a previously completed work instead of a sample from the submitted project?
No, we cannot accept a previously completed work as a work sample. You must provide a sample representative of the submitted project.
When is the submission deadline? Is there a fee?
Submissions open from September 14, 2010 to December 8, 2010. All materials MUST be postmarked by the final deadline.
The application fee is $40 but projects submitted by November 8th get an early bird discount and pay only $30.
What is an Artistic Statement?
The Artistic Statement is your opportunity to discuss your creative vision for your project. This is where you can speak to the tone and style of the film, and to the reasoning behind your creative choices with regards to subject matter, medium, setting, etc. It’s also the place to touch upon your motivation for telling this story and for how you’ve decided to tell it.
Do you need a budget from me? Why?
We do require an actual or estimated budget top-sheet, and the more detailed a budget you can provide, the better. These allow TFI staff and the Awards Committee to more accurately evaluate your project and the strength of your plans for seeing it realized.
Can I e-mail you my submission materials?
No. We require that you upload any documents so that they are linked with your online application. However, project footage, director’s samples, and completed films must be sent by DVD as detailed on the application and in the Rules & Regulations.
What kind of photo do I need for my application? How can I get it to you?
You should upload a photo that is at least 1200-1500 pixels in width or height so that it’s linked to your application. While you definitely don’t need a professional headshot, you should upload a picture that you are comfortable seeing online and in print, as it may be used for promotional purposes if your project is selected. Be sure to name your photo 'firstname_lastname.jpg' before uploading it! We cannot accept photos by mail or email.
What if there are developments with my project after I submit it?
Please keep us posted about new project developments by emailing documentary@tribecafilminstitute.org with the subject “UPDATE: Project Title (Application #)”. Depending on how far along we are in the review process, we will do our best to take developments into consideration. That said, once submissions close, new screenplay drafts, additional footage or new cuts will not be reviewed until an applicant is made a finalist.
Can I apply to other TFI programs, such as the TFI Documentary Fund?
Yes! If your project meets the criteria for another TFI program, you are welcome to apply for it by filling out a separate application specific to that program.
How will I know that the Fund has received my submission materials?
Due to the large volume of submissions, we are not able to send confirmation at the time that your materials are received. It is recommended that you use a shipping service that provides confirmation of delivery. You are notified by email when submission materials have been processed.
Will the Fund return my submission materials?
No, we will be unable to return any of your submitted materials.
Selection
How are winning films selected?
Initial rounds of evaluation will be conducted and thoroughly vetted by Tribeca Film Institute staff. Final Selections will be made by TFI as well as by a final selection committee comprised of notable talents in the field.
When will I be notified if my film is awarded funding?
You will be notified whether or not you are granted funding no later than June 1, 2011.
When will recipients of the Fund be announced?
Fund recipients will be announced in the spring of 2011.
If my project is selected to the Gucci Tribeca Documentary Fund, will it screen at the Tribeca Film Festival?
Not necessarily. Filmmakers with completed films seeking to apply to the Tribeca Film Festival should fill out a separate application by visiting www.tribecafilm.com/festival/. Acceptance to the one does not indicate acceptance to the other.
Where can I find additional answers to questions?
You will find more information about the application process in our Rules and Regulations. Our staff will be happy to answer any other questions or concerns you may have. Please contact us at documentary@tribecafilminstitute.org or call us at 212-274-8080 x28.