Gravel Road Distribution Group, one of the largest cinema distributors in South Africa, has launched a feature film pitching competition. According to the call, the winner will be receiving USD$6 900 in celebration of its tenth anniversary.
The competition is open to South Africans of 18 years and above. However, the competition will give preference to those who have not had a film created from their script, and the winner receives development support and distributions support, all valued at US$6 900. In addition, the IP of the film will remain with the contestant.
The GRD Group are experts in the field of independent film distribution in Southern Africa as well as the distribution of local films internationally.
This year, the company’s slate of film release include The Last Bus, The Artist’s Wife, Sodium Day, Tubular Bells and a documentary on the late Princess Diana.
Benjamin Cowley, CEO of Gravel Road Distribution Group, indicated that film pitching competitions are an essential entry point for new content and talent in the industry.
“We believe that the competition will become a valuable channel that will open up the industry and assist new film creators in coming to the forefront.”
The competition includes three stages, the entries, shortlisting and a final round – presenting in person to a panel of industry experts in Cape Town.
The contestant will get constructive feedback and support from industry experts during the competition.
The layout of the competition is as follows, Round 1: Entry Submit a formal pitch deck – deadline 1 April 2022. The formal pitch should include a plotline, character bible, treatment and a short synopsis.
The Group will announce six shortlisted projects on 14 April 2022, whereby Round 2 shortlisted projects will need to submit a completed screenplay by 13 May 2022. Only three projects will present their in-person pitch. The finalists will be announced on 3 June 2022.
