How to pitch your upcoming documentary here and now? And how to successfully promote it once it’s completed? On June 11 and 12, the DOCU/PRO platform will host events that will help industry-accredited participants explore the tools of development, effective pitching, and PR for documentary films.
At the morning lecture on June 11, Danish expert in international documentary development Mikael Opstrup will reflect on unpredictability in the documentary filmmaking process — and how it shapes pitch preparation. He will guide the audience through key questions: What should you look for in a documentary story? Who is a character? Does a pitch trailer have its own dramaturgy? What’s the difference between stories and events?
Mikael Opstrup is a leading international expert and consultant in trailer creation, co-production, workshop planning, and delivery. He is the author of The Uncertainty – book about developing Character driven Documentary. From 2011 to 2019, he headed the training program at the European Documentary Network (EDN) and was the initiator and editor of the EDN Co-Production Guide.
The next day, June 12, PR consultant, journalist, and founder of Bilenberg PR, Line Bilenberg, will share PR strategies and approaches to help your film stand out. She will also explain the difference between working with a professional publicist and trying to promote a film on your own — especially at international festivals.
Line Bilenberg worked for many years as a journalist — on television, radio, news, and magazines. For the past 13 years, she has been an independent PR consultant providing public relations support primarily in the film industry. Her expertise includes PR strategy development, lobbying, promotional campaigns, press tours, media training, public outreach, and more.
Line has also worked with Ukrainian films — including 20 Days in Mariupol during its European premiere at CPH:DOX in Copenhagen.
If you’re interested in getting individual feedback on your project, this year DOCU/PRO industry-accredited participants will have the opportunity to book one-on-one consultations with Mikael Opstrup and Brigid O’Shea, tutor and director of the DAE – Documentary Association of Europe. Details – via the link.
Access to the events is available with DOCU/PRO industry accreditation (available until May 30). Announcements for DOCU/PRO platform events are posted on the website. Read more about the program – here.
The events will take place at KINO42 cinema, with the option to join online, and at 1818 rooftop bar.
These events are held by Docudays UA in collaboration with the Embassy of Denmark in Ukraine.
The 22nd Docudays UA is held with the financial support of the European Union, the Embassy of Sweden in Ukraine, International Renaissance Foundation. The opinions, conclusions, or recommendations do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union, the governments, or organisations of these countries. Responsibility for the content of the publication lies exclusively with the authors and editors of the publication.
