Note: One of the key team members (Writer, Director or Producer) has to be a UAE National OR a resident in the Middle East for more than 5 years, OR has Emirati, Middle Eastern, North African parents (MENA region).
The Shasha Grant is Abu Dhabi Film Commission's One Hundred Thousand
Dollar international screenwriting competition designed to identify, develop and launch the career of outstanding filmmakers. One winner will be chosen from the finalists during a gala ceremony in Abu Dhabi.
Summary
Abu Dhabi Film Commission will invite the Shasha Grant finalists to Abu Dhabi to attend the pitching sessions in October. During the sessions the finalists will be paired with industry executives to create and refine pitch strategies for the six chosen scripts. During the final pitching session each finalist will pitch their script to a selection jury comprised of industry professionals for evaluation. The winning script will receive a $100,000 development grant.
Please be advised that you need a completed script in .PDF format in order to complete the application and enter the competition. Your application may be deleted if not complete with script.
Rules & Regulations
Entry into this competition confirms each entrant’s acceptance of these terms and conditions:
1. Abu Dhabi Film Commission reserves the right to reject any entry at their absolute discretion.
2. Entrants are to be 18 years and above.
3. Entries can be from
- Writer
- Writer/ Director
- Writer plus Director team
- Writer plus Producer team
- Writer/ Director plus a Producer team
4. Scripts must be submitted by the Writer or Director.
5. One of the key team members (Writer, Director or Producer) has to be a UAE National OR a resident in the Middle East for more than 5 years, OR has Emirati, Middle Eastern, North African parents (MENA region).
6. All scripts must fulfill one of the following criteria:
- The script subject matter is set in the Middle East or North Africa OR
- The script is to be filmed in the UAE.
7. All entrants must have completed a short, feature or documentary film that was awarded a prize, has been screened at an international film festival or has had a broadcast commission.
8. Writers must have written at least one (1) other feature screenplay.
9. Directors must have directed at least one (1) feature film.
10. Producers must have at least 3 broadcast or screening credits (theatrical or festival).
11. A maximum of 2 scripts per applicant will be accepted. Only one script per applicant will be selected.
12. All scripts must be a completed feature length screenplay (90 pages minimum/ 110 maximum).
13. Scripts must be in industry standard format, with a title page containing contact details. Click on this link to see a template
14. The entered script must be original work or an original adaptation of a copyright free story, or proof of ownership of the Chain of Title must be submitted with the application.
15. The entered script must not have been previously optioned, sold or produced.
16. The script can be submitted in English or Arabic language.
17. Applicants must be comfortable pitching their scripts in English or Arabic.
18. The content in all scripts must be socially and culturally acceptable in the UAE and region. (PG15 rating)
19. Each application to Shasha Grant must include the following:
* Complete online Shasha Grant Application
* One feature-length screenplay as a PDF file
20. No scripts will be accepted after the deadline 30th June 2011 midnight.
21. All submissions must be sent via internet.
22. The material submitted will not be returned under any circumstances.
23. 10 scripts will be shortlisted on the 4th September 2011. Only selected entrants will be contacted and will be published online.
24. If the script is one of the 10 shortlisted the following documents must be provided by 15th August 2011 5pm.
* Passport copy of applicant/s
* Copy of residency visa if applicable or proof of parents nationality if applicable
* A copy of prior work - only one film may be submitted for review (either short, feature, documentary or broadcasted show) – DVD or via internet upload
* Films must have English subtitles if dialogue is in a different language.
* All shortlisted entrants submitting their scripts in Arabic must be prepared to send an English version of their script by 15th August 2011. In case the shortlisted needs to use the services of a professional translator, Abu Dhabi Film Commission will fund the translation up to a limit of 350US$
** (Failure to submit will result in immediate withdrawal from The Shasha Grant)
25. Only shortlisted entrants must send the requested documents. Abu Dhabi Film Commision will contact the shortlisted candidates with details on how to send the documents requested.
26. Six final scripts will be announced on the 11th September 2011. Only the writer and director will be eligible to pitch the script.
27. The finalists will be required to travel to Abu Dhabi, UAE to participate in the Shasha Grant Competition. Abu Dhabi Film Commission will provide economy airfare, transportation to event, and hotel accommodation for finalists pitching the script.
28. Finalists are responsible for acquiring relevant passports. Abu Dhabi Film Commission will assist in procuring any necessary visa for travel.
29. If a finalist is unable to secure the necessary travel documents or confirm participation within two weeks prior to the competition, their place in the Shasha programme will be forfeited by default and offered to the next qualified applicant.
30. The decision of the jury will be final.
31. Release of Grant is subject to signing final contractual agreement.
32. Abu Dhabi Film Commission reserves the right to amend the rules and regulations at any time.
Contact Information:
For inquiries: shasha2011@film.gov.ae or call +971 02 4012701
For submissions: apply here
Website: https://shashacompetition.com/index.php
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