Opportunity to Become VICE Filmmaker in Association with Sheffield Doc Fest

VICE returns to Sheffield Doc Fest to launch The Rule Britannia Pitch, offering filmmakers a chance to win a commission from the award-winning VICE UK documentary team.

Over the past 21 years, VICE has grown into at the leading global youth media company, producing hundreds of hours of compelling, original video that explores the nuances of the modern world. Alongside running ten digital channels including a genre-defining news channel, VICE also launched a North American TV network, VICELAND, this month.

The Rule Britannia Pitch is a chance for talented filmmakers to see their work come to life in VICE's flagship UK doc strand, which has garnered hundreds of millions of views since launching in 2012. Rule Britannia offers unflinching insights into the idiosyncrasies of British life and spotlights incredible characters with honest stories, which tell the audience something surprising or new about the country we live in. Past productions have looked at underground bare-knuckle boxing, young offenders, army cadets, mental health issues amongst young people, disgraced aristocracy, debt collectors and Scottish wrestlers.

VICE's judging panel will be looking for:

- Stories that can be turned into 30-60min documentaries

- Ambitious, distinctive filmmakers with a track record for jaw-dropping ideas

- Amazing access

- Understanding of VICE's tone, style and Rule Britannia's context

VICE will provide a production budget of up to £25k, including a paid rate for the winner, who will be invited to work at VICE's London office while developing their film. They will have access to full in-house production facilities and work alongside an array of world-class documentarians as well as the core team behind Rule Britannia.

The winning film will be premiered across VICE's network to millions of young people around the globe.

VICE are looking for five finalists to present their ideas live at The Rule Britannia Pitch session in Sheffield on Sunday 12th June. Submissions should be entered using this form, along with a CV and covering letter telling us about your interests and professional work, to rulebritannia@vice.com before 14th April.

A selection of entrants will be invited to VICE's London office on 28th April, to receive one on one feedback on their ideas from a selection of VICE producers and commissioners.

Five finalists will present their pitch – including a 90 second taster reel – at Sheffield Doc/Fest in front of a panel including VICE UK's Executive Producer alongside other senior VICE Directors and Producers.

VICE welcomes filmmakers from various levels and non-traditional backgrounds but for those with less documentary, digital and TV experience, you will be expected to show remarkable proficiency and drive behind your ideas.

Finalists will have their travel paid for (up to £75) and receive a delegates day pass.