International Documentary Challenge: March 1-5

This year, let your students discover why the best stories aren’t always scripted.

Now in its 7th year, the International Documentary Challenge is an exciting learning and portfolio opportunity for media and film students. Their participation will connect them locally, and even give them global exposure.

If you're new to the idea, it's very simple: Filmmakers from around the world are given a single genre (“Character Study,” “Music,” “1st Person,” and more) and a theme (such as "Change"). Participants then have five days to develop, produce and edit a 4-to-7 minute non-fiction film. The result is an exhilarating five days for the filmmakers, and, as the films reveal, a thrill for the audiences at Hot Docs and beyond.

This year's challenge takes place March 1-5, 2012. Finalists premiere at the North America’s largest Documentary Film Festival, the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival in Toronto in early May.

Past participants call the International Documentary Challenge "invigorating,” "rewarding,” "a high,” and even "a life-altering experience." Many of the past participants (and winners!) of the Doc Challenge have been groups of students (alone or led by a teacher) at all levels: from high school students, to community media and art institute classes, to film, documentary and journalism majors at universities.

According to past student participants, Doc Challenge is an intense experience that helps them focus in a new and effective way. It may seem a ridiculous notion to think of completing a film in such a short time, but that’s the very essence of this competition -- encouraging filmmakers to work straight from their gut, make quick decisions and finish a creative project under pressure. When making a film in just a few days, you will learn a lot about what is and isn't important in filmmaking. These are lessons that will never be forgotten.

One of the main lessons driving the Doc Challenge is TEAMWORK. With such a tight deadline, the students learn valuable lessons on how to work together in an efficient and productive manner.

But don't just take it from us. Listen to testimonials from students and teachers that participated and became finalists! Watch the video here.

IMPORTANT DATES:
Registration: NOW OPEN Sign Up Now
Early Registration Deadline: February 14, 2012
Final Registration Deadline: February 29, 2012
Doc Challenge: March 1-5, 2012

Complete details and entry forms can be found at docchallenge.org

The Doc Challenge is produced by KDHX Media. 2012 Presenting Partners include Hot Docs, The Documentary Channel, American Documentary/P.O.V. and Documentary Educational Resources. Supporting partners include the International Documentary Association, the Documentary Organization of Canada, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, Dokufest, Film Action Oregon and the 48 Hour Film Project.

The International Documentary Challenge.
Real Life. Filmed Real Fast.

Cheers,
Kat Touschner
International Documentary Challenge Producer