Fresh Cuts 2023 FAQs
After the success of the Fresh Cuts strand in 2022, ITV and MultiStory Media, part of ITV Studios, are proud to launch Fresh Cuts 2023 through the Diversity Commissioning Fund. We are again looking for First Time Black Producer/Directors (PDs) or Directors to make their first single factual non-scripted film for ITV, which will be shown in October 2023.
If you are looking to get your first Producer/Director or Director broadcast credit and have an idea for a single, factual film (commercial 60’ - approx. 45 minutes of content), we are keen to hear from you.
We are looking for programmes that we can broadcast during Black History Month, so we are looking for ideas that are innovative and fresh and bring your unique perspective to ITV.
In a change from last year’s Fresh Cuts, Producer/Director (PDs) or Director can now also apply without an idea. Send your CV & a showreel and we will match you with one of the MultiStory projects that are currently being developed.
This is an incredible opportunity for you to get your film seen and to set you on a successful career path as a Producer/Director or Director.
In order to apply, you will need to fulfil all of the following criteria:
You are Black or from a Black heritage background;
You are at least 18 (eighteen) years old on the date you apply to the programme;
You are a legal resident in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or Eire and also currently living in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or Eire;
You must be able to self-shoot;
This must be your first credit as a Producer/Director or Director for a single film or episode that has been publicly broadcast (any work for a commercial shall be excluded);
You must have at least three years of television/film production experience;
If you are submitting a programme idea, the idea submitted must be original to you and is not being considered anywhere else or by anyone else;
You can submit only one idea/application.
You can only apply as a solo applicant.
If you fit the above criteria, we look forward to receiving your application. Please submit your application here no later than 29th March 2023, remember to have your CV and showreel ready to upload. If you have any questions, there is a webinar on Wednesday 22nd March at 1-2pm. Sign up here to attend.
FAQs
1. What is Fresh Cuts 2023?
Fresh Cuts 2023 is our factual strand which will consist of single factual/unscripted films that will be shown on ITV during Black History Month in October 2023.
2. Why are you only looking for Black or Black heritage Producer/Directors or DIrectors?
As this is programming for Black History Month, we are keen to hear from those who have a unique and authentic experience of being Black in the UK today. We also recognise that there is a severe lack of representation of Black Filmmakers in our industry today. There are multiple reports that have been conducted highlighting the lack of Black Filmmakers in the industry. These include the 2020 report Race and Ethnic Diversity: a deep dive into Diamond data by the Creative Diversity Network, which showed that only 1.6% of Directors were Black.
3. Can I send in Drama ideas?
No, we are only looking for Unscripted/Factual ideas. You are also welcome to send in any format ideas.
4. What should I be thinking of in terms of ideas?
We are encouraging you to be as bold as possible. We are looking for ideas you think should be part of Black History Month programming and can show us your unique vision in a single film.
5. Are you looking for a specific documentary style?
No, we are looking for fresh ideas and new takes - please have a look at last year’s films on ITVX to see the range of styles that were produced.
6. Is there any more information I can look at to help steer my idea?
Yes. The idea will be part of ITV’s Factual output so their commissioning page can give you a good idea of the tone, style and content they look for across all their commissions.
7. Will I be paid?
Yes, you will be paid a fee in line with industry standard rates for producer/directors or director; this will be taken from the programme budget.
8. How are MultiStory involved?
MultiStory are part of ITV Studios and are a very experienced Factual production company. They will be ‘housing’ all the films and will help you with the budgeting, crewing and producing of the films.
9. I don’t have much experience making factual programmes but I have directed before. Can I still apply?
Yes! ITV and MultiStory will help you make your film so you will be fully supported throughout the process.
10. Can I apply with an idea?
Yes, you are able to apply with an idea.
11. Can I apply WITHOUT an idea?
Yes. In a change from last year’s call out, we will also accept applications without an idea. Please make sure you indicate this on your application form. For those applying without an idea we will match you with a MultiStory idea if your application is successful.
12. What if you don’t like my idea but like my CV/showreel?
In this scenario, we will match you with one of the MultiStory projects that are currently being developed.
13. I applied last year with an idea but was unsuccessful. Can I apply again with the same idea?
You are very welcome to reapply but we will NOT be able to accept any ideas that were submitted for last year’s Fresh Cuts strand. Please apply with a new idea or apply without an idea.
14. I am based in the nations and regions, can I apply?
Yes. Please note that pre-production and post-production may take place in London.
15. How long will I need to be available if I am successful and is the role full time?
You will be contracted from around April - October and it is full time.
16. Do you have any Terms & Conditions (T & Cs) that I need to read before applying?
Yes! Please read these our Terms and Conditions before applying.
17. What is the Diversity Commissioning Fund?
We launched our Diversity Commissioning Fund (DCF) in 2022, reserving £80 million of our existing commissioning budget over three years to drive change towards racial and disability equity when it comes to whose stories get told and which individuals are given opportunities in TV production. Fresh Cuts 2023 is funded through the DCF.
18. How are the Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) team involved in the strand?
The D&I team will be there to support the directors throughout the process. This includes and is not limited to, organising Induction sessions, networking sessions as well as being part of the selection process.
19. Will there be a webinar to ask questions?
Yes, there will be a Zoom webinar on Weds 22nd March at 1-2pm. To sign up, please fill in this form
20. When is the deadline?