As doors closed on 33rd Sunny Side of the Doc, organisers revealed that 2000 industry professionals from 67 countries (including almost 400 decision-makers) and 1100 accredited companies took part in the online event. This year, 48 projects from 22 countries were presented across 8 pitching sessions split into three major categories.
“We are delighted that we were able to bring together international industry leaders this year to celebrate and champion the genre, which in recent years has experienced both a greater audience demand and increased difficulties in terms of financing and production,” said Mathieu Béjot, Director of Strategy and Development at Sunny Side of the Doc.
“The documentary genre is recovering from the health crisis more slowly than others. We must now find spirited ways to collaborate internationally, to be able to meet new partners, not only for funding opportunities but also for the creative side too. This is the challenge for a marketplace like Sunny Side of the Doc and what also makes it so important for the sector.”
Best Global Issues Pitch
SHE Produced by: Antropica S.r.l. (Italy). Directed by: Parsifal Reparato
Award sponsored by RTBF. Prize: 3,000 euros in cash
Jury citation: “The jury thinks the way SHE unveils timely themes such as women’s rights, equal pay, economical migration, western responsibility and patriarchal systems is essential. We acknowledge the quality of the development work undertaken and the access gained in this process. SHE gives a fresh look on the topic with creative use of cinematography and with the experimental staging of work in the factory. We will be interested in seeing how the story develops. We hope to see that the story will be told with the protagonists, rather than just about them. We are also interested in learning about Samsung’s point of view. The jury wishes the team all the best and we look forward to seeing the final film.”
Best Wildlife & Conservation Pitch
THE BIG LITTLE THINGS Produced by: Saint Thomas Productions (France) / Red Nature Films (South Africa) Directed by: Muneera Sallies
Award sponsored by Love Nature & Blue Ant Media. Prize: 3,000 euros in cash
Jury citation: “The jury were given a diverse range of projects to consider in this genre, from true crime, to animation, comedy, deeply personal stories and an exploration of the rainbow world in nature. In the end the jury was unanimous in their decision when they considered the winning project against the criteria they were asked to use The statement at the start of the pitch “The African wildlife filmmaker is rarer than some of the species that conservationists are trying to protect” is impactful and troubling. We were compelled by the authenticity of the pitch, which we consider to be well prepared, creative, fluent and joyful. The finance that comes with the prize will be meaningful and will make a material difference to ensuring the project is made and the recognition that this prize will bring to the project will enhance its potential for a successful commission. We believe the ambition and enthusiasm that the filmmakers displayed in their pitch will ensure the project is made and will find distribution.”
Best History Pitch
THE FACTORY’S BASEMENT Produced by: Grifa Filmes (Brazil). Directed by: Gustavo Ribeiro
Award sponsored by PBS International. Prize: 3,000 euros in cash
Jury citation: “A very original project on a not well known story. It mixes archives, investigation, incredible characters and questions topics which resonate today.”
Best Science Pitch
AYAHUASCA Produced by: Ey Up Films (United Kingdom). Directed by: Bruce Gill
Award sponsored by France Télévisions. Prize: 3,000 euros in cash
Jury citation: “We’re really impressed by the presentation and pitch video which has a unique and fresh approach. This is great timing to tell this story about the medical use of psychedelics as it’s on the rise. We really hope this award will help these young filmmakers develop their project further.”
Best Immersive Experiences Pitch
JACOB’S JOURNEY Produced by: Infinite Frame Media (Canada). Directed by: Joanne Popinska
Award sponsored by France TV StoryLab. Prize: 3,000 euros in cash
Jury citation: “The jury decided to give the Prize to “Jacob’s Journey” given the relevance of the topic and the time-sensitive nature of its development. This next generation will be the first to have no longer a family member that lived through the Holocaust, and the use of VR will help preserve this necessary testimony. We are convinced that this prize will allow us to highlight this project and help bring it to fruition.”
Best Arts & Culture Pitch
THE HIDDEN EYE Produced by: Wanda Films (Spain). Directed by: Carlota Nelson
Award sponsored by West Lake International Documentary Festival. Prize: 3,000 euros in cash
Jury citation: “The trailer of The Hidden Eye was beautifully filmed and immersive. We felt completely immersed in the world of the photographer. The story was very inspiring with a female filmmaker talking about the work for an older female artist. This pitch was not only about celebrating art but also a celebration of life revealing a little known photographer onto the international market. We were also excited about the quality of this project held by a talented Spanish filmmaker.”
Best Digital Na(rra)tive Stories Pitch
A VERY HOT SUMMER IN NEW YORK CITY Produced by: Binge Audio (France). Directed by: Anne-Cécile Genre & Marine Pradel. Prize: 3,000 euros in cash
Jury citation: “It’s the perfect use of the audio format, utilising an impressive collection of archive to delve back into a fascinating story. We can definitely see it really resonating with audiences, especially in the current social climate and I’d be excited to listen to it.”
Best New Voices Talent Hub
NOTHING CALLED HOME Produced by: Maurice & Morrise (United Arab Emirates). Directed by: Arkus. Prize: 3,000 euros in cash
Jury citation: “A great story is told through the eyes of an ordinary family. The director broadens the story to larger issues in the world. The story covers the situation in the Middle East over the past two decades. It is authentic, complex and layered which includes religion, migration and war combined well with personal archives. More importantly, it is a beautiful journey in finding peace and tranquility.”
