The Doc Challenge is a timed filmmaking competition where filmmakers from around the world will make a short non-fiction film (4-7 minutes) from start to finish in just 5 days.

Filmmakers are assigned a theme (past themes include Dreams/Nightmares, Change) and must choose between 2 assigned documentary genres (such as Character Study, Music, 1st Person, etc.) These two requirements provide a challenge to filmmakers, as it will shape the content and direction their film takes.

The top 12 films will make their world premiere at Hot Docs where winners will be announced. Three major awards (with cash prizes) will be presented: The American Documentary/P.O.V. Award, The Documentary Educational Resources (DER) Award and the Best Film Award (presented by the Documentary Channel.) Additionally, online viewing and voting will determine an Audience Award winner. After the
premiere, there are additional theatrical screenings in major cities, national television exposure (10 films from 2011 were selected for national broadcast on the Documentary Channel) and a DVD release of the best films.

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IMPORTANT DATES:
Registration NOW OPEN
Early Registration Deadline: February 14, 2012
Final Registration Deadline: February 29, 2012
Doc Challenge: March 1-5, 2012

Hot Docs Dates: April 26 - May 06, 2012

Complete details and entry forms can be found at www.docchallenge.org

Doc Challenge is produced by KDHX. The 2012 Presenting Partners include Hot Docs, The Documentary Channel, American Documentary/P.O.V. and Documentary Educational Resources. Supporting partners include the International Documentary Association, the Documentary Organization of Canada, DocuMentors, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, Dokufest, Docs In Progress and the 48 Hour Film Project.

The International Documentary Challenge.
Real Life. Filmed Real Fast.