Three mentors are responsible this edition for assisting and advising all the pitchers for the LCM Official Selection

Sunny Side of the Doc and LatAm are joining forces to showcase the power of the documentary sector, calling on three personalities from the subsidiary to provide the best possible support to the project leaders selected for this edition.

Jacqueline Farmer, producer and director, is the mentor for the Nature & Environment category.

Christine Huillard-Kann, producer, is the mentor for the Investigation & True Crime category

Elvira Lind, consultant, is the mentor for the History category

© Sunny Side of the Doc

One piece of advice you received concerning your career or work, that you still apply today

Jacqueline Farmer : Enjoy the time you have to make connections, ask questions and really use the opportunity to help shape your film. 

Elvira Lind : You only survive in this business if you really love it and are passionate about it—if you expect the unexpected, accept sacrifices, and are ready to work with utterly unconventional people. Then it stops being a job and becomes a privilege.

Christilla Huillard-Kann : "Be attentive to subtle signs that reflect the state of the world and follow your instincts; be responsible and committed with the authors, the characters and the partners."

3 keys elements for a successful pitch

Jacqueline Farmer :

  • A clean, core story - whose journey is carrying the story and what is at stake ?
  • The story stakes exposed clearly, what can be lost or gained as the story unfolds ?
  • A distinctive point of view. The famous why now, why you ? - this part should show the authorship and the vision for the film.

Elvira Lind :

  • Compelling, unique stories or strong characters, exclusive access, thorough research, a clear storyline, and a well-defined vision for the visual realization.
  • A well-crafted and powerful trailer with a clear dramaturgical structure, and—ideally—already fully reflecting the style, tone, and essence of the finished documentary.
  • A clear and realistic financing concept, along with a team that evokes confidence in its ability to successfully realize the project.

Christilla Huillard-Kann :

  • Talk about the film in the present tense, telling a sincere story while taking into account the audience listening to you.
  • Share your convictions with a smile, specifying what makes the film unique and your personal connection to the story.
  • Focus on emotion and point of view . The pitch is a first hook to grab the attention of partners.
+ DO NOT USE A.I. when you write your pitch!

What are your expectations for the next edition of LatAm?

Jacqueline Farmer : "I am excited to see new film makers projects coming from Latin America in Natural History, Environment and Science  - there are so many beautiful stories. They have strong, original authorship and while rooted in distinct territories, they also have global appeal."

Elvira Lind : "Inspiring pitch sessions and the opportunity to discover new paths for cooperation and financing in a time of unprecedented change. An opportunity, especially for LatAm producers, to gain deeper insights into the international market and expand their global networks. All of this within a creative and open-minded atmosphere."

Christilla Huillard-Kann : "See projects become films, encourage broadcasters to be bold by showing films that shed light on the world with high standards and protect the documentary industry!"