Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) has called for entries for the 5th annual Shasha screenwriting competition designed to identify, develop and launch the career of talented filmmakers.
The competition is open to UAE nationals, or UAE residents of over five years, citizens from other countries in the Middle East or individuals with Middle Eastern or North African parentage. Scripts can be submitted in English or Arabic and applicants must be comfortable pitching their projects to an industry panel in either English or Arabic.
10 scripts will be shortlisted on 1st August 2011 and six finalists will be announced on 4th September 2011.
The Film Commission will invite the six Shasha Grant finalists to Abu Dhabi this coming October to attend the pitching sessions which involve each finalist being paired with an industry executive to create and refine pitch strategies for their scripts.
During the final pitching session each finalist will pitch their script to a selection jury comprised of industry professionals for evaluation. The winning project will receive the $100,000 development grant and ongoing production support from the Abu Dhabi Film Commission.
For the full rules and regulations and to apply, please visit the commission website www.film.gov.ae or email inquiries to shasha@film.gov.ae