The Film Independent + CNN Original Series Docuseries Intensive is a three-day remote workshop that will give filmmakers the tools and access needed to develop and present their nonfiction series to potential collaborators working in the series space. Through executive and peer mentorship, workshopping and fostering industry connections, Fellows will walk away with a deeper understanding of how the business works, as well as having tangible next steps to move their projects forward. The program will elaborate on a range of topics, from funding and development to marketing and distribution, and each filmmaker or filmmaking team will receive a $3500 stipend to utilize as they see fit for their docuseries project.

For more information on the application deadline please visit our applications page.

Who Can Apply?

The Film Independent + CNN Original Series Docuseries Intensive is open to emerging or mid-career filmmakers/filmmaking teams (directors, producers, editors and show runners) from communities typically underrepresented in the media industry, who have worked or would like to work in the docuseries space. Filmmakers who have worked in features (fiction or nonfiction) and are looking to transition to the episodic format are encouraged to apply. Applicants must apply with a docuseries project in development and be based in the United States.

How to Apply

To be considered, qualifying filmmakers must complete an online application via the Film Independent Artist Development applications site, before the application deadline. The application will require:

• A logline and synopsis
• A summary of topic and artistic approach
• A proposed timeline, audience, and distribution and marketing strategy
• Bios of key cast and crew
• A link to view a past or current work sample

Selection Process and Criteria

Film Independent and CNN Original Series are seeking filmmakers possessing uniqueness of vision, career goals and a spirit of giving back to the community, and whose projects explore original, provocative subject matter. A maximum of ten (10) filmmakers/filmmaking teams and their projects will be selected to participate in the three-day intensive, which is slated to take place in late September, 2022.

Application Fee

All applicants will be charged a one-time, non-refundable submission fee of $25.

For more information, please email: artistdevelopment@filmindependent.org.

To learn more about Film Independent Fellows and their projects, visit our Talent Guide.