Reach Film Fellowship

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:The program guidelines state that the fellowships are awarded to filmmakers who have recently completed a film studies program. What if my degree is in Communications or Media Studies or I completed a film certificate program instead of a degree-granting program?

A: RFF’s mission is to ease the transition between “student” filmmaker and professional because resources are few for that cohort of emerging artists. In selecting our fellows, we are looking for filmmakers who demonstrate talent, potential, and an inclination towards making films of social relevance, but who are also in need of support and mentorship to advance to the next stage of their careers. The majority of our applicants have completed a film program with a film or video production focus, during which they studied the art of film and produced a body of student work. However, applicants who have experience in film and/or video production, and who submit sample work demonstrating their ability to direct films, will be considered regardless of the nature of their educational background. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Cinereach staff well in advance of the application deadline to discuss eligibility and receive advise on whether or not they may be a good fit for the program.

Q: What qualifies as a “socially relevant film”?

A: By design, Cinereach is committed to supporting the creation of “vital stories, artfully told.” When evaluating an applicant for our Fellowship program we look first and foremost for compelling storytelling, an artistic approach to filmmaking craft, a unique voice and vision. Underlying those qualities, we look at the subject matter the filmmaker has selected for his or her RFF project and whether it has the potential to challenge perceptions, cross boundaries, spark dialogue or offer an uncommon perspective.

Q: Who judges the entries and selects the fellows?

A: The Cinereach staff carries out the review process to select the fellows (sometimes inviting external judges to offer input). At the conclusion of the program, Cinereach staff always works again with external judges (a different group each year) to select the recipient of the Reach Out Award.

Q: Is there a preferred length for an RFF applicant film?

A: We recommend that proposed projects be no longer than 10 or 12 minutes and no shorter than 4 minutes. It is rare that we make an exception but may support a longer or shorter project in the rare case that the film’s subject matter or approach calls for variation.

Q: If I win the Reach Out Award (an additional $5,000 of funding for my next project) does my next film have to be considered “socially relevant” in order to receive the additional funding?

A: In most cases, because of the costs associated with festival submissions and self distribution, Cinereach prefers that the recipient(s) of the Reach Out Award use the award towards the completion, exhibition or distribution of their RFF film. The award is often given on a case-by-case basis, however, and its designated use will depend somewhat on the specific needs of the filmmaker who receives it.