Sharp Shorts – which opens for applications today (Monday 19th April) – seeks to spotlight up-and-coming writers, directors and producers based in Scotland; granting funds to create inspiring, engaging and boundary-pushing short films that resonate with audiences worldwide. Both live action and animated projects will be considered.
Up to 15 projects will be selected to take part in a 3-month development phase. After pitching for a production award in September 2021, up to 9 projects will be selected to receive up to £15,000 of funding.
A live webinar will take place at 12.00pm on Friday 23rd April to guide applicants through the online form and answer any questions. Click here to sign up.
New and emerging filmmakers living in Scotland are welcome to apply for Sharp Shorts, including those looking to make the transition to fiction from documentary or experimental film, as well as practitioners working in other mediums such as television, theatre, literature and other forms of visual and/or performing arts. All applicants should be able to demonstrate some experience of crafting a dramatic narrative or professional artwork in at least one of these formats.
“Short Circuit has recognised my voice as a Palestinian filmmaker living in Scotland and supported my directing vision towards making my professional debut short film. I encourage every filmmaker with a bold new idea to submit to this great scheme.”
Razan Madhoon, Filmmaker and Sharp Shorts 2020 Participant
We are seeking applications from complete teams of writer, director (or writer/director) and producer or from individual writers or writer/directors. Individual producers or directors not currently attached to a project will be invited to submit for consideration as a potential collaborator at a later date.
Applications are encouraged from individuals who are currently under-represented within the sector, including Disabled and D/deaf people, people from minority ethnic groups, women, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex people (LGBTQI+), and those who have been socially and economically disadvantaged by their circumstances.
The deadline to apply for Sharp Shorts is 10am on Monday 17th May.
Click here to find out more and apply.
Photo credit: Kevin J. Thomson
