Funds for docs

Got an idea for a doc? Apply for a grant from the Sundance Documentary Fund. The program is now open for application submissions. The fund offers grants to filmmakers from all over the world "for projects that display: artful film language, effective storytelling, originality and feasibility, contemporary cultural relevance, and potential to reach and connect with its intended audience," reads a document from Sundance Institute. "Preference is given to projects that convey clear story structure, higher stakes and contemporary relevance, forward going action or questions, demonstrated access to subjects, and quality use of film craft." Think of docs like The Square, The Queen of Versailles, Rich Hill, The Invisible War and The Genius of Marian. Haven't watched them nor heard of them? Here are some links to trailers of funded docs.

Last year, dirertor Cecilia Aldarondo got a grant for "Memories of a Penitent Heart," about a niece that tracks down the lover of a gay uncle who died from AIDS 25 years before and the subsequent family drama that would unfold.

"The Square" takes look at the Arab Spring in Egypt. It won 16 international prizes, including the Sundance Audience Award, and got a nod for an Oscar.

"The Queen of Versailles" (2012) offers a peek into the life of a super rich family who lives in a mansion bigger than the White House and a reality check impose on them by the recent nation's economic crisis. The film won the Sundance Directing Award for a documentary and went on to receive nine other prizes. Those interested can apply for funds in different categories depending on where their project are–up to $20,000 for development for docs in the first stages; up to $50,000 for production/post-production; and up to $20,000 for audience engagement for reach out efforst only for projects previously funded. There is also the possibility of nominations to other programs withing Sundance. Not all funded docs make it to competition at Sundance, like in the case of acclaimed "CitizenFour," a film about whistle-blower Edward Snowen, the former CIA and government contrator who leaked tons of classified documents and caused an international uproar. This year the Sundance Documentary Fund eleminated deadlines for submissions to , so the time to submit applications is open-ended throught the fall. But filmmakers interested in applying should consider that things get hectic later in the year months before Sundance Fest, slated for Jan 21 through 31, 2016. In other words, the sooner one applies, the better. For more information and applications, click here. –CESAR ARREDONDO

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