Call for projects: Sunny Side of the Doc

Having your documentary project selected in one of the seven Sunny Side of the Doc pitch sessions increases your chances of finding the right partners, both financial and editorial: channels, platforms, foundations, distributors, international co-producers. If you have a project in development or production with strong international potential, join us in La Rochelle from June 23 to 26, 2025.

WHY PITCH AT SUNNY SIDE OF THE DOC?

Every year, Sunny Side of the Doc brings together the international documentary film community in all its forms for an unmissable 4-day event. Sunny Side attracts over 2,200 participants from more than 70 countries and aims to support the financing and international co-production of projects, as well as the distribution of completed programs. With over 300 leading international decision-makers in attendance, representing major broadcasters, streamers, foundations, distributors, buyers... looking for strong stories, Sunny Side of the Doc pitch sessions are the opportunity to finance your project and get valuable feedback. Take a look at the list of decision-makers attending 2024 edition. Once your project has been selected, you'll have access to qualified professionals and mentoring from industry experts to help you prepare your pitch in the best possible conditions. At the end of the pitch, you'll benefit from face-to-face meetings with the decision makers present at the pitch session.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

In a polarized world, documentaries bring people together around universal social issues. For this 36th edition of Sunny Side of the Doc, we seek diverse, inclusive stories with global appeal across all media formats.
Pitching Categories:

Science – Exploring medicine, technology, environment, space, and archaeological discoveries with strong visual storytelling.

History – Decoding past events and influential figures through archives, animations, and creative narratives.

Arts & Entertainment – Covering visual arts, literature, cinema, pop culture, and performing arts. Biopics featuring global icons are welcome.

Nature & Environment – Examining ecosystems, wildlife, climate change, and indigenous perspectives.

Current Affairs & Investigation – In-depth analysis of social, economic, technological, environmental, and political issues.

New Voices – Showcasing first or second-time filmmakers with strong, inclusive storytelling.

Impact Campaigns – Supporting documentaries with a social, political, or environmental mission by funding impact strategies (not production).

Eligibility:

Open to directors, producers, and authors at all experience levels.
Projects must be in advanced development (not post-production).
A confirmed third-party financial partner is required.
Formats include unitary films, feature films, and series.
International co-production potential is a key selection criterion.

Pitch Journey:

Selection: 6 projects per session, chosen by industry professionals.
Mentoring: Guidance on pitching, presentations, and partner engagement.
Presentation: A 5-minute video pitch, 2-minute live pitch, and 7-minute Q&A with decision-makers.
Meetings & Awards: Tailored one-on-one meetings and €3,000 prizes for the best pitches.

How to Submit:

Submissions open: Dec 17, 2024 | Deadline: Mar 25, 2025, 12 PM CET
Online application in English (€90 fee).
Required materials: synopsis, director/producer bios, financing details, trailer, and impact strategies (if applicable).

For more details, visit the link below or contact projects@sunnysideofthedoc.com.