Salon Debut calls for feature ideas

Salon Pictures has launched Salon Debut, a new initiative to allow first-time feature filmmakers to pitch and direct a film.

Founders Nick Taussig and Paul Van Carter are encouraging upcoming directors aged 18 or above to submit feature film ideas here. The idea is to produce a movie under £500,000, which the company recently did for its acclaimed documentary on football legend Paul Gascoigne. This funding will only the cost of production. “In the constantly shifting sands of film finance, projects at this budget level, with a clear audience, and strong idea that will draw talent, are a safer model for both investors and distributors,” says Carter. “Yet robust enough to allow bold ideas with innovative directors at the helm to find an international reach."

The deadline for submissions is 1 August.