Feature Film Program - sundance.org (2024)

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1. What’s the difference between the Screenwriters Lab and Screenwriters Intensive? Why might I be selected for one over the other?
   Each program has its own specific eligibility requirements:
   • The Screenwriters Lab is for first- or second-time fiction feature writers, writer/directors, or writer/director teams.
   • The Screenwriters Intensive is for first-time fiction feature writers or writer/directors who come from underrepresented communities, including women, artists of color, LGBTQ+ artists, and artists with disabilities. The Screenwriters Intensive focuses on supporting artists at an earlier stage of their career and/or at an earlier stage of development with their project.
2. Am I eligible for future Sundance Institute support if I am selected for a development track program or fellowship?
   All development track program fellows are eligible to be considered for additional Feature Film Program labs and activities, including the Directors Lab (first-time fiction feature directors only), the Creative Producing Summit, Catalyst Forum, Women at Sundance’s Financing and Strategy Intensive, and ongoing creative and strategic support from Feature Film Program staff.
3. Why are the Asian American and Latinx Fellowships no longer offered?
   For our upcoming Development Track and beyond, we’ve made a commitment to continue and deepen our outreach and support across all underrepresented groups. For this reason, we’ve decided to discontinue our Asian American and Latinx Fellowships. Please know that this does not indicate a reduced desire to support artists from these communities. Upon deeper examination of our programs through a racial equity lens, we have determined that offering specific fellowships for the same communities every year does not allow us to maximize impact on an equitable basis within the communities most marginalized, and where our annual reporting tells us we have the most room to improve. We will still support Asian American and Latinx artists among a diverse cohort in our Development Track programs, and will continue to make it a priority to identify and amplify voices from all traditionally marginalized communities.
4. How do I submit an application?
   Applications for the 2024 Screenwriters Lab and Screenwriters Intensive will be available online between April 13, 2023, through May 15, 2023, and can be accessed at apply.sundance.org.
5. What does the application include?
   In the first round, an application includes the following components:
   • Cover letter (500-word limit):Please introduce yourself and your project. There are no strict requirements for this letter, but we’d like to get a brief idea of who you are, what your script is about, where you are in the creative process, and how specifically you think the lab process could be helpful to you.
   • Artistic statement (500-word limit): Please describe your creative vision for the project. What themes are you most interested in exploring in your work, and what do you want an audience to take away from your film? How do you envision the realization of this script in terms of story, character, tone, and/or visual style? Is there a budget level you have in mind? Who do you see as the audience for this film? Why are you passionate about telling this story now? If this is a resubmission of material we’ve previously considered, how has the material changed since we last read it?
   • Personal Connection (500-word limit): What is your personal connection to a) the story you are telling, and b) the specific communities your story is about? How are you working to make sure that the characters and world of your film are authentically represented, and that the community you’re writing about has a voice in the creative process?
     
   • Logline (75-word limit):A one- to two-sentence description of your project.
   • Synopsis (750-word limit):A brief summary of the plot of your script. Please include all major characters and story points, including the ending.
   • Bio(s) (150-word limit per bio):You may include bios for up to three members of the creative team, although only the screenwriter(s) and director, if involved with development, will attend the lab.
   • Description of scientific or technological content (Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship and Commissioning Grant applicants only):Please give a brief description of the thematic core and scientific ideas being explored. Please include what scientific research and consultation you would like to put this particular grant toward; this can include specific scientists or fields of research.
   • The first five pages of your screenplay or treatment:Please do not submit more than the first five pages. NOTE: You may submit a treatment for the Sloan Commissioning Grant only. If a treatment is submitted and it is not eligible for the Sloan Commissioning Grant, the project will not be considered for any other development track programs or fellowships.
   • Demographic info:In an effort to measure and improve our commitment to supporting artists from diverse backgrounds around the world, we ask each applicant a series of demographic questions. Your responses will not affect your submission to our programs or be sold or shared with anyone at any time.
6. What materials will be requested from me if I advance to the second round? What is the deadline to submit second round materials?
   If you advance to the second round of consideration, you will be asked to upload the complete draft of your screenplay. For the Alfred P. Sloan Commissioning Grant only, you may upload a complete draft of your treatment. In addition, you will be given the opportunity to include a link to a directorial sample, although this is not required. Typically, you will be given 10 days to two weeks from the date of notification to submit second round materials.
7. If I advance to the second round, am I a finalist?
   We don’t use designations like “finalist” or “semi-finalist.” Approximately 1,000 to 1,200 complete screenplays are considered as part of the second round.
8. I’m an international filmmaker based outside the U.S. How can I apply?
   Whether you’re based in the U.S. or internationally, you may apply using the development track application foundhere. The Screenwriters Lab always includes both U.S.-based and international filmmakers. Typically, the majority of artists selected for the Screenwriters Intensive are U.S. based, but international artists may be considered for both programs.
9. What are the dates of the 2024 Screenwriters Lab and Screenwriters Intensive?
   Screenwriters Lab: January 2024 (exact dates TBD)
   Screenwriters Intensive: March 2024 (exact dates TBD)
10. Is it possible to get an extension? What’s the final, final deadline?
    Unfortunately we cannot grant extensions; you must submit your online application by 4:59 p.m. PT on May 15, 2023.
11. How can I apply to the Directors Lab?
    There is no open application process for the Directors Lab, which is typically populated by projects that have already been supported via a prior Institute program such as a Screenwriters Lab, Intensive, or grant. The Directors Lab supports first-time fiction feature directors; application to the development track is the best way to put your project into the pipeline of eventual consideration for the Directors Lab.
12. May I apply with more than one script?
    You may submit up to three projects, but we strongly encourage you to choose one project that is your priority in terms of moving forward. Please note that for each script, you must complete a separate application, and submit a separate application fee.
13. I have a project I want to submit, but it’s still in treatment form or a partial draft. If I don’t think I will be able to have a draft in screenplay format in time to submit, can I submit my treatment or partial draft for consideration?
    No. We need to receive a completed draft of a screenplay to consider your project. This does not mean the final draft; however, we do ask that the script is in standard format. The only exception to this rule is the application for the Sloan Commissioning Grant, which will consider treatments.
14. May I re-apply with a script that I’ve submitted to Sundance Institute previously?
    Under certain circ*mstances, yes. We strongly recommend you only re-apply with material we’ve considered previously if you’ve made significant revisions to the script.
15. How long (or short) should my script be?
    While there is no “correct length,” a typical screenplay is 90–120 pages. In most cases, if your script is significantly longer or shorter than that range, we will suggest you do more revisions before submitting it for consideration.
16. Do you consider scripts written in a language other than English?
    Although we will support scripts that will eventually be produced in a language other than English, your script must be translated into English before you submit it.
17. Do you consider adaptations?
    Yes, we will consider scripts based on existing material, as long as you have secured the underlying rights to the source material.
18. May I apply with a script that has been submitted or supported elsewhere?
    Yes, we have no restrictions on material that has been submitted to or supported by other artist development programs.
19. I don’t have much experience. Does that affect my chances of being selected?
    No. We seek to foster exciting emerging voices, regardless of prior professional film experience.
20. How far along should my screenplay be when I submit? Can I submit a rough draft? Are you looking for a polished draft?
    You must have a completed draft of your screenplay to apply, but we expect that it will still be a work-in-progress. The ideal time to apply to the lab is when you’ve taken your screenplay as far as you can go on your own, and need the fresh, intensive perspective the lab provides to brainstorm solutions to stubborn challenges, get “unstuck,” or take the material to a next level.
21. May I submit letters of recommendation? Should I have my industry contacts call on my behalf?
    No. Final selections are based on the screenplay and supporting application materials alone, and recommendations will not influence our decisions.
22. How should I address my cover letter?
    “Dear Sundance” or “To Whom It May Concern” are both fine.
23. How will I be notified about acceptance? Will I be notified if I’m not selected?
    All lab notifications are made via email. You will hear from us either way, whether selected or not.
24. I haven’t received notification yet, but my friends have—what’s wrong? When will I know if I’ve made it to the second round?
    Email notifications are made on a rolling basis. You will hear whether you have advanced to the second round of the application by August 31, 2023. Second round notifications about final selections for development track programs will be made by December 14, 2023. If those dates have passed and you have still not received notice of the status of your application, please reach out to featurefilmprogram@sundance.organd we will be happy to sort out any communication issues.
25. Can Sundance Institute help produce my film? What kind of grants/support/production help can I apply for?
    Sundance Institute is a nonprofit organization, and as such we do not produce nor finance films. Feature Film Program grants are reserved for artists already supported by one of our programs such as a lab or intensive. The only grant for which there is a public application is the Alfred P. Sloan Commissioning Grant and Fellowship. Applications for this annual grant are accepted through the online application for our development track.
26. Will my ideas be protected?
    Sundance Institute only shares your script with a small group of trusted readers and, if you advance in the selection process, with a selection committee composed of Sundance Institute alumni. Even so, we recommend that all applicants who send their work out into the world register their scripts with the Writers Guild of America for a nominal fee; you do not need to be a WGA member to utilize its registration service.
27. What does the program cost?
    Aside from an application fee, we do not charge for participation in our programs. When the Screenwriters Lab takes place in Utah, we cover the cost of travel, accommodations, and food for up to two participants per project. For the Screenwriters Intensive, travel and accommodations are not covered, but we do offer a small stipend to Fellows coming from outside Los Angeles to help offset those costs, when those programs are conducted in LA.
28. When I apply for or am selected for one of your programs, does Sundance Institute own my screenplay?
    

    The contribution provisions in the below Paragraph apply if the Artist is attending only the Screenwriters Lab.

    1. If the Project is produced for a gross budget that is equal to or less than One Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,500,000), no contribution is due to the Institute.
    2. If the project is produced for a gross budget between One Million Five Hundred Thousand One Dollars ($1,500,001) and Three Million Dollars ($3,000,000) Owner will make a contribution to Institute in the amount of Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($2,500), which contribution will be paid to Institute no later than ten (10) business days following the commencement of principal photography of the Project.
    3. If the project is produced for a gross budget between Three Million One Dollars ($3,000,001) and Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000), Owner will make a contribution to Institute in the amount of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000), which contribution will be paid to Institute no later than ten (10) business days following the commencement of principal photography of the Project.
    4. If the project is produced for a gross budget that is equal to or exceeds Five Million One Dollars ($5,000,001), Owner will make a contribution to Institute in the amount of Seven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($7,500), which contribution will be paid to Institute no later than ten (10) business days following the commencement of principal photography of the Project.
       

    The contribution provisions in the below Paragraph apply in lieu of the provisions set forth in above Paragraph if the Artist is attending the June Directors Lab, or both the Screenwriters Lab and the Directors Lab.

    1. If the Project is produced for a gross budget equal to or less than One Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,500,000), no contribution is due to the Institute.
    2. If the project is produced for a gross budget between One Million, Five Hundred Thousand One Dollars ($1,500,001) and Three Million Dollars ($3,000,000) Owner will make a contribution to Institute in an amount of Four Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($4,500), which contribution will be paid to Institute no later than ten (10) business days following the commencement of principal photography of the Project.
    3. If the project is produced for a gross budget is between Three Million One Dollars ($3,000,001) and Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000), Owner will make a contribution to Institute in an amount of Seven Thousand Dollars ($7,000), which contribution will be paid to Institute no later than ten (10) business days following the commencement of principal photography of the Project.
    4. If the project is produced for a gross budget that is equal to or exceeds Five Million One Dollars ($5,000,001), Owner will make a contribution to Institute in an amount of Nine Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($9,500), which contribution will be paid to Institute no later than ten (10) business days following the commencement of principal photography of the Project.

Alfred P. Sloan Commissioning Grant and Fellowship FAQ

1. What’s the difference between the commissioning grant and the fellowship?
   The commissioning grant focuses on projects in earlier stages of development—from full treatment form to early screenplay drafts. If your script is in a later stage of development, we can consider it for a Screenwriters Lab Fellowship. If you are not sure, please choose either within the application, and we will evaluate based on the status of the project for either the grant or fellowship. Please remember that the Screenwriters Lab Fellowship is only available to first- or second-time feature screenwriters.
2. Do I need to have a science advisor already on board my project?
   No science advisor is required in order to apply for this grant. However, you are encouraged to include information about any that you may be collaborating with or would like to collaborate with in the “Brief description of the scientific ideas being explored” section of the application.
3. Why can’t I submit a science-fiction project?
   The goal of this particular grant is to focus on stories grounded in current (or past) science and/or technology. Although we understand some cutting edge science can be construed as science fiction, please use your best judgement in deciding whether or not to apply. For example, stories taking place in the future or involving science that is clearly not yet achievable would be considered science fiction.
4. Can I submit my documentary project?
   This grant and fellowship is only available to fiction (scripted) features.
5. Can I re-apply with the same project as last year?
   Yes, although we encourage you to re-apply with the same project only if you have made significant revisions. If you do re-apply, please articulate what has changed in terms of story, attachments, and/or strategy since the previous submission. It is important for our selection committee to understand the movement forward from a previous submission.
6. Can only Americans apply?
   International applicants may apply, but all submitted projects for the Sloan Commissioning Grant or Fellowship must be intended to be filmed in English and submitted to us in English.
7. Do you accept scripts that have been supported via other Alfred P. Sloan Foundations grants and awards?
   Yes, we have no restrictions on material that has been supported through prior grants, awards, and workshops.

Still don’t see your question answered here? Email us atfeaturefilmprogram@sundance.org.

In 1996, the Sundance Institute/NHK Award was established by Sundance Institute in partnership with NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) to celebrate 100 years of cinema and to honor and support emerging independent filmmakers whose originality, talent, and vision contributes significantly to the future of world cinema.

One international filmmaker is selected each year and commemorated with an announcement at the Sundance Film Festival in January. The award includes a $10,000 cash prize, attendance at the Sundance Film Festival for creative and strategic meetings at the Festival, and guidance by FFP staff throughout the life of the project.

Past recipients include Benh Zeitlin (Beasts of the Southern Wild), Lucretia Martel (La Cienega), Laure de Claremont-Tonnerre (The Mustang), Andrey Zvyagintsev (Elena), and Walter Salles (Central Station), among others.

The 2021 Sundance Institute/NHK Award was presented to Meryam Joobeur’sMotherhood.

Customized Advice, Connections, and Advocacy

After participation in one of the Labs, Feature Film Program Fellows continue to receive a robust suite of customized creative and tactical assistance as they move projects forward from development through distribution. In many cases, the Institute has helped the Fellows attach producers, identify potential financiers, and assemble other significant resources to move their projects toward production and distribution. Specific ways in which the Feature Film Program maintains its commitment and support of filmmakers and their projects include: ongoing creative and strategic support, designated mentors, key crew and producer recommendations and the Works-In-Progress Screening Initiative.

The Works-In-Progress Screening Initiative provides filmmakers with crucial creative support during the post-production phase of the filmmaking process. The Feature Film Program staff and a select group of Creative Advisors screen a succession of rough cuts of the film, offering creative feedback as the filmmaker moves to a final version.

The Works-In-Progress Screening Initiative is reserved for projects that have gone through the Screenwriters and Directors Labs.

Sundance Institute’s Catalyst program builds a culture of partnership between independent investors and filmmakers. Each year, equity and industry funding is unlocked for a selected group of ambitious new independent film projects. Catalyst brings together both new and experienced film investors through highly curated film financing opportunities (Catalyst Forum in September), custom programming, and engagement with the Sundance Institute community. We train selected filmmakers to effectively present their films for independent financing, and we provide them with continued support throughout the lives of their projects, through guidance on building successful investor relationships and critical project feedback.

Learn More

In memory of Sally Menke’s artistry and love of mentoring, Sundance Institute created the Sally Menke Memorial Editing Fellowship to support an emerging narrative editor in furthering their craft, expanding their artistic community and providing momentum to their editing career.

Selected annually, the Sally Menke Editing fellow will work as an editor at the Sundance Institute Directors Lab, focusing on editing the workshop scenes of two directors selected for the lab. The fellow will also have the year-round opportunity to work with two established editors as mentors.

The Sally Menke Editing Fellowship is designed to support an emerging narrative editor who has edited at least one narrative film (no more than four), and any number of shorts, documentary films, industrial films, or webisodes. Additionally, the ideal candidate is committed to continuing a career in editing, passionate about the creative process, and open to exploration and experimentation in the editing room. The 2021 Sally Menke Memorial Editing fellow is Susan E. Kim.

Sally Menke Fellowship applications are considered by invitation or recommendation only. For more information, please contactfeaturefilmprogram@sundance.org.

The Works-In-Progress Screening Initiative provides filmmakers with crucial creative support during the post-production phase of the filmmaking process. The Feature Film Program staff and a select group of Creative Advisors screen a succession of rough cuts of the film, offering creative feedback as the filmmaker moves to a final version.

The Works-In-Progress Screening Initiative is reserved for projects that have gone through the Screenwriters and Directors Labs.

Sundance Institute’s Catalyst program builds a culture of partnership between independent investors and filmmakers. Each year, equity and industry funding is unlocked for a selected group of ambitious new independent film projects. Catalyst brings together both new and experienced film investors through highly curated film financing opportunities (Catalyst Forum in September), custom programming, and engagement with the Sundance Institute community. We train selected filmmakers to effectively present their films for independent financing, and we provide them with continued support throughout the lives of their projects, through guidance on building successful investor relationships and critical project feedback.

Learn More