Deadline: November 17, 2023
Are you working on a nonfiction film or podcast that reimagines democratic futures? Do you want to be in community w/ movement builders, journalists, & other storytellers? If yes, then apply for the Democracy Story Lab Rio.
The Democracy Story Lab is designed to explore a core question: what are the stories which can help them to understand how they might govern themselves? Join in this second edition of the lab, where the Doc Society will bring brilliant storytellers together with top thought leaders to pave the way for fresh futures.
Stipends will be offered to those travelling from outside of Rio so please do not let that be a barrier to apply. If you are selected for the lab, you must attend the lab in person.
Categories
- Reflecting on storytelling of the last two decades, they’ve noticed that the ‘democracy’ narratives tend to fit into four categories:
- Anti-erosion narratives: These stories show citizens how their systems are being abused and how people are pushing back. These stories reassure citizens that accountability is possible (maintain faith in democracy). Examples: The Edge of Democracy, Citizenfour, Dark Money.
- Representation narratives: showing how representative candidates run for – and sometimes win – office. Examples: Knock Down the House, And She Could Be Next, Softie, An Insignificant Man.
- Citizen Power outside the system: Films that show the power of participation by those that join movements for change. Examples: The Square, Rebellion, Whose Streets?
- New Democratic Models: Films that seek new ways to do democracy, beyond the current model. Examples: People vs. Climate Change, Democrats.
Location
- This second edition of the lab will take place in Rio, Brazil from March 3 – 7, 2024.
What are they looking for?
- They seek documentary feature films, documentary short films, and non-fiction podcast projects.
- The lab is open to filmmakers worldwide and they look forward to receiving applications from across the globe.
- They look to learn from and with one another in solidarity. If you are a storyteller working under a repressive regime or working with new ways of governing they want to hear from you.
- They are accepting projects from production through post-production – must have footage/a sample to share.
Ineligible
- Projects that are still in development.
- Projects that are completed.
- Projects that are biography centered (biopics, etc).
- Projects that are purely historical (that don’t have a contemporary tie-in and are purely archival).
- Fiction or VR projects.
- Projects that are uninterested in impact work.
For more information, visit Doc Society.
