Directed by Jessie Vile, the feature-length documentary tells an incredible story of a guitar legend who refuses to give up on his dream of being a musician despite the most incredible odds. When doctors diagnosed 19-year-old rock star Jason Becker with Lou Gehrig's Disease, they said he would never make music again and that he wouldn't live to see his 25th birthday. Twenty-two years later, without the ability to move or to speak, Jason is alive and making music with his eyes. This film has been recognized with honors at five film festivals thus far, including the winner of "Outstanding Achievement" in Music at the Newport Beach Film Festival and "Best Documentary" at Chicago International Movies and Music Festival 2012.
http://www.jasonbeckermovie.com
Where is the market headed? What do U.S. networks pay for programs? How can producers get the work? What’s in it for the Talent? These and many more of your questions will be addressed in an information-packed 2+ hour session presented by entertainment business guru Peter Hamilton and his special guest, reality TV specialist Stephen Harris.
Peter is an industry veteran and the author of documentarytelevision.com, a blog that focuses on the financial and business practices of the factual content sector. Stephen has spent 15 years developing, producing, and directing non-scripted reality shows on cable and network television.
This Master Class, a one-of-a-kind intensive workshop, requires a separate fee from your general WESTDOC pass. For more information, click on the “Speakers” tab of the website.
Off Label uses the personal stories of human guinea pigs – those who test and take pharmaceutical drugs – as a launching pad for a deeper exploration into the ways these drugs are marketed, sold, consumed, and ultimately treated with the same reverence as a religious belief in the United States. The film incorporates a multitude of visual styles and presents deeply personal stories set against a uniquely American landscape haunted by the ever-present commercialization of medicine and personal identity. An official selection at the Tribeca, Hot Docs, Sheffield Doc/Fest and the San Francisco International Film Festival, Off Label was directed by Michael Palmieri and Donal Mosher and produced by Anish Savjani and Vincent Savino.
http://offlabelfilm.com
Directed by Fredrik Gertten and produced by Margarete Jangård, this documentary chronicles the true story of their small Swedish film production company being forced to face off against multi-billion dollar fruit giant Dole Food Company, Inc. when their controversial 2009 film "BANANAS!*" was to be stopped at any cost. From lawsuits to bullying scare tactics and media control, the story altogether reveals a dreadful eye-opener about what a big corporation will do in order to protect its brand. The film has been an official selection of the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam and Sundance Film Festival.
http://www.bigboysgonebananas.com
WESTDOC’s previous PitchFest winners – Bess Kargman’s First Position and Lisanne Pajot and James Swirsky’s Indie Game: The Movie – were both released to great acclaim earlier this year. Both films toured the festival circuit, but while Kargman’s work was acquired by a major company for its subsequent theatrical run, Pajot and Swirsky embarked on a more DIY approach to distributing their work in theaters and online. Listen to the filmmakers discuss their respective approaches, weighing the pros and cons of a traditional film release vs. a more digital-oriented approach.
Moderated by Chuck Braverman
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Not everyone is using iTunes to sell their content online. There ARE self-distribution options. We’ve all heard about the “digital majors”, but how do digital DIY sites compare to the big boys? How are DIY sites such as EggUp, MoPix, FilmBinder, Assemble, Distrify and Dynamo succeeding in this corner of the marketplace? Learn how to create your own site and understand the costs of making your content readily available for consumers.
Moderated by Alex Ben Block
Considering all the new changes in the submission rules (again), what’s really required for documentary qualification? Get the lowdown on all that is required to have your film taken seriously for an Academy Award. Hear from both filmmakers who campaigned on their own and a PR expert who knows how to make it happen.
Moderated by AJ Schnack
Swamp people wrestling alligators, frat guys passing out on the beach, rednecks fishing with their hands – what could possibly be next? Networks need ratings to succeed. Audiences want diversion from the stresses of normal life today, and reality shows are filling that need. Our panel of reality executives and producers will discuss the audience’s fascination with unusual angles on unconventional American life.
Moderated by DMA
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Want to see the inner workings of a fully digital theater? With the passing of film, today’s theaters are now being equipped with digital projection – but how does it all work? Get an up-close look at the Pacific Theaters’ digital projection room and hear from the lead tech on how the digital workflow is adapted to the projection of today’s fiction and non-fiction fare.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Transmedia, or multi-platform interactive storytelling, has become a big buzzword in the entertainment industry over the last couple of years. As the digital and social media experience continues to evolve, today’s audience no longer just consumes media passively, but now desires media and story experiences available to them on a number of devices and formats. Hear from the latest industry insiders as to what part transmedia plays in the larger digital puzzle.
Moderated by David Bloom.
Is there still money overseas? What is today’s perfect universal program or series? Sit with industry experts who license programming outside the US. In this view from the trenches you’ll understand the current state of the world’s broadcast marketplace and hear how the global economy has affected revenues. How has the influx of British, Canadian, and European productions contributed to the glut of new programs in the marketplace?
Moderated by Richard Propper
What are the differences between – and requirements of – the distinct types of reality shows? How do you prepare to sell a docudrama vs. a competition vs. a standalone format? What might be best framework with the talent and access you already have?
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Brush up on your people skills – Face Time is your moment to shine. “Pitching” an idea to television executives is an unavoidable fact of life in the entertainment industry, but actually landing those meetings in the first place can be a real challenge. Face Time grants you the invaluable opportunity for a brief one-on-one meeting with network people who can critique – and maybe even help you license – your program idea. Remember: keep it simple, keep it tight and above all, keep it interesting. You’ve got ten minutes, so make it count.
Face Time meetings are included as part of your registration to WESTDOC.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Confused about where the reality genre is headed in 2012 and beyond? In this insightful roundtable discussion with leading reality programmers, find out what's working in today's competitive broadcast environment. Hear how networks consider and develop new ideas, find out why some franchise series continue on and others don't, and learn how indie producers have broken through and succeeded with these networks.
Moderated by Alex Ben Block
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out what’s working and what’s not and how to best navigate the creative process. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
SnagFilms, Hulu, New Video, Amazon, iTunes are all the latest rage among filmmakers with content to sell. But is this new frontier all it’s cracked up to be? Is $340 a year in net revenue really worth all the work? Where is this a la cart style of purchasing content really going? Has anyone made more than $5000 from any of this? Hear from some of the players who are defining the terms of the Big Box digital marketplace.
Moderated by Stephen Nemeth
Is the well told historical documentary dead, replaced by “new” history of pawn shops and river monsters? What channels still appreciate and more importantly, license traditional historical documentaries? Is this genre of programming still viable? Have all the good stories been told and are now just being repeated in 3-D with animation? Let industry experts tell you where this important genre is headed.
Moderated by Peter Hamilton
The world of reality TV production has exploded in the last decade ushering in a wave of new producers with new ideas. What does this mean for the 'tried & true' production companies whose names are synonymous with hits and high ratings? Find out how these Titans of Reality maintain their competitive edge. And what is next?
Moderated by Michael Schneider
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Is crowdfunding the way to go? Do these new fundraising platforms really help? What is the downside? How big is the upside? Hear from filmmakers who’ve actually done it and learn the tips and tricks to making crowdfunding work for you.
Moderated by Edwin Stepp
How do you make a great documentary using unconventional stock footage sources? When is it the best time to use stock footage from an archive? What are the challenges of breathing new life into well-known events? Hear from seasoned producers for a fascinating tour of documentaries made from film reels found in dusty attics and garage sales.
Moderated by David Seevers.
A good sizzle reel is the key to selling docs and reality programming. Whether you’re trying to find funding, secure distribution or whip up some publicity for your latest project, the sizzle reel is one of the most important tools in the filmmaking process. How do you craft the perfect reel? What gets executives and financiers excited to watch? Find out in this must-see panel.
Moderated by Sean Zeid
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Oscar and Emmy Nominated Producer/Director Kirby Dick will deliver the Documentary Keynote Conversation. His most recent film, The Invisible War, a groundbreaking investigation into the epidemic of rape in the U.S. military, won the Audience Award at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival. It has received critical acclaim from the New York Times, The Hollywood Reporter, and Reuters. Kirby will be interviewed about his latest work as well as Twist of Faith, Outrage, and This Film Is Not Yet Rated.
Moderated by Matt Holzman
Today's reality producers are facing increasing challenges when making high-concept series. By now everyone knows that some creative license is taken in the editing room, but how do today's producers maintain the balance between portraying authentic characters and keeping the audience entertained in an increasingly crowded marketplace? How are the narratives of unscripted shows really written? Hear from industry creators as they discuss how a complicated reality arc is conceived, developed and executed.
Moderated by Brian Lowry
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
With the gradual demise of traditional print and network news, documentary filmmakers are rapidly becoming our generation’s news force. Films like The Cove, Restrepo, GasLand and Off-Label have told stories that would have never been publicized otherwise. In light of this evolution, what are the ethical responsibilities of the filmmaker, both to their subject and the audience?
Moderated by Michael Rose
No broadcast sale? No theatrical advance? No digital sales? Hear about alternative distribution that will blow your mind. Two approaches to distribution that utilize marketing to enthusiastic audiences for extended periods. This is the long tail approach to indie-distribution.
Moderated by Kirt Eftekhar
An unknown becomes a reality star. Then demands more money. Now what? Have any productions gone off the rails as a result of spoiled “stars” and their out-of-control behavior? Or is most “talent” just happy to be part of a successful reality franchise? How much should talent earn compared to the producer? Learn how network talent agreements are authored from the start and find out how an agent fits into the mix.
Moderated by Larry Verbit
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Brush up on your people skills – Face Time is your moment to shine. “Pitching” an idea to television executives is an unavoidable fact of life in the entertainment industry, but actually landing those meetings in the first place can be a real challenge. Face Time grants you the invaluable opportunity for a brief one-on-one meeting with network people who can critique – and maybe even help you license – your program idea. Remember: keep it simple, keep it tight and above all, keep it interesting. You’ve got ten minutes, so make it count.
Face Time meetings are included as part of your registration to WESTDOC.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Over the last five years, the broadband business has increased substantially – but where is it heading? Where are the new opportunities coming from? The key building blocks for the broadband industry are almost identical to the original growth of television and cable yet not as clear to understand. Hear from broadband industry expert Jon Cody about the history of television audiences, the adaptation of new delivery platforms, and how content makers can navigate the potentially treacherous -- and lucrative -- waters ahead.
What does the documentary format mean to broadcasters in 2012? What are networks looking for? What AREN’T they looking for? Find out about the current state of the non-fiction genre in this insightful discussion with leading broadcast programmers.
Moderated by James Moll
Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of this hugely successful reality show. Producers will be on hand to explain the program’s development production and promotion, providing a candid exploration of just what it takes to make a reality hit.
Moderated by Daniel Frankel
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual broadcasters outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
Many filmmakers dream of having their documentary broadcast on PBS. Not many of them realize that it can be somewhat challenging to sell to PBS. Find out how to navigate the waters of public television both at the local and national levels.
Moderated by Lyn Goldfarb
Depending on the type of project being made, there are different documents, funding opportunities and materials needed to get a show produced. Indie documentarians may prep a presentation reel to raise funds, while reality show pitchers will prep a sizzle and a one-sheet and never raise a dime. This is a front-to-back super-seminar/panel explaining the steps for funding different non-fiction projects.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
The Sit-Down is a 30-minute small group discussion in which individual production companies outline their specific needs for today and, more importantly, tomorrow. Find out exactly what they’re looking for, what they’re not looking for and how to get your pitch or project to the right person. Seating is first-come, first-served for each session.
