Annecy Issues Call For Entries For Its Mifa Pitches Showcase

The Annecy International Animation Film Festival is accepting entries for its Mifa Pitches, a showcase of original animation projects in the early stages of development.

As the name of the program implies, the pitches will take place at Mifa, the animated film market that runs parallel to the prestigious film festival.

Entries are accepted for projects in four categories: feature films, short films, television series and specials, and interactive creations/transmedia.

The pitches are designed to showcase new ideas and creators from around the globe. In 2015, an additional category – Animation du Monde – was added to highlight projects from emerging animation countries in Africa, South America, and Asia.

In addition to the opportunity of presenting a project to the international community, numerous prizes are awarded including distribution deals, residencies, and individual production grants of up to 35,000 euros ($41,500 USD). Last year, over 170,000 euros in production funding was distributed among the prizewinners.

Submitted projects must be in the first phase of development (script, storyboard, statement of intent, graphic research). Students can submit projects too, though the projects must be developed independently of any animation course. A faq with further details can be found on the Annecy website.

The MIFA organizers tell Cartoon Brew that they would particularly welcome an increase in submissions from the United States. Only around 6% of the 342 projects submitted last year came from the States.

To submit a project, go here. The deadline to enter a project is February 5, 2018.

(Photo: Photo : D. Bouchet/CITIA.)