Am I eligible for the 2020 Short Film Intensive: Miami?
The 2020 Short Film Intensive: Miami is for filmmakers with short films (49 minutes or less) residing in Florida, with priority given to filmmakers based in or with strong ties to the Miami area. Must be 18+ to apply. We do not take scripts or finished films that have screened already.

How many projects can I apply with?
You may submit up to two projects, but we encourage you to choose one project that is your priority. Please note that you must complete a separate application for each project.

What is the maximum runtime for my project to be considered a short film?

A Sundance Institute short requires the length of the film to be 49 minutes or less, though the average is usually between 7 and 15 minutes. 

Does my short film have to be in a particular genre?
For the purposes of the 2020 Short Film Intensive: Miami, your film can be of any genre, including fiction, nonfiction, animation, or experimental films. 

How complete should the project be?
Sundance Institute will consider short films in production or post-production. You should have dailies or a work-in-progress cut of your film to show. We do not take scripts or finished films that have screened already.

What is the date of the 2020 Short Film Intensive: Miami?
The 2020 Short Film Intensive: Miami will take place on Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9 via Sundance Institute's online learning platform Sundance Co//ab.

Is it possible to get an extension? What’s the final deadline?
No, it is not possible to get an extension. You must complete the online application by 9:00 p.m. ET on Monday, April 13. 

How will I be notified about acceptance? Will I be notified if I’m not accepted?
All notifications will be made via email. You will hear from us either way by late April 2020. 

May I apply with a short film that has been submitted or supported elsewhere?

We have no restrictions on material that has been submitted to or supported by other artist development programs or workshops. But it should still be a current work-in-progress.

I don't have much experience. Does that affect my chances at acceptance in the program?
Absolutely not. Sundance Institute seeks to foster exciting emerging voices, regardless of professional experience.

Do you consider short films in a language other than English?
Yes, but please add English subtitles where needed.

Can I submit a project based on existing intellectual property like a short story?
Yes, we will consider projects based on prior work, as long as you have secured the underlying rights to the material.

Would my ideas be protected?
Yes, Sundance Institute does not share or distribute any materials.

What does the program cost?
Applications for and participation in the 2020 Short Film Intensive: Miami is completely free.

Does Sundance Institute own my short film?
No. All participants must own or have approval from the project owner to participate in Sundance Institute activities.

Still don't see your question answered here? Email mike_plante@sundance.org with further questions.