ROUGH CUT RETREAT

The 2020 Rough Cut Retreat

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CATAPULT FILM FUND & THE CHICAGO MEDIA PROJECT

Launched in 2016, RCR unites nonfiction filmmakers and mentors in a creative, supportive, and engaged atmosphere. In 2020 that atmosphere expanded to Zoom, pushing us to rethink the what, how, and where of online retreats.

“Whether in-person or virtual, building community is essential to the success of any documentary film,” —Catapult co-founder Lisa Kleiner Chanoff

After months in an edit suite, filmmakers often lose perspective; this is a key moment for fresh eyes in a safe space—a focus group for filmmakers to diagnose what is and isn’t working with their film. When selecting projects, priority goes to work that displays an ambitious, idiosyncratic approach to nonfiction storytelling. Additionally, preference is given to emerging filmmakers and projects that are not already receiving significant institutional support. Chosen mentors are professionals who embody creativity and generosity of spirit. For more information, visit roughcutretreat.org. THE 2020 INVITED PROJECTS included Bitterbrush (dir. Emelie Mahdavian), The In Between (dir. Robie Flores), North By Current (dir. Angelo Madsen Minax), Razing Liberty Square (dir. Katja Esson), and Ascension (dir. Jessica Kingdon). THE 2020 SELECTED MENTORS were Don Bernier (editor, Athlete A), Bonni Cohen (producer/director, Athlete A, Audrie & Daisy), Omar Mullick (director/cinematographer, These Birds Walk [T/F 2013]), Rahdi Taylor (producer, Time [T/F 2020]), and David Teague (editor, Cutie and the Boxer [T/F 2013]).