Britdoc has unveiled a new fund open to independent documentary filmmakers across Europe – and revealed the first two recipients.

Britdoc Circle, supported by individual European philanthropists, has been created to supplement existing international grantmakers, state funds and broadcast partners with the same interests.

Founding members include Sam Roddick, the founder of UK ‘erotic emporium’ store Coco de Mer, and Swedish producer Cristina Ljungberg, who are now looking to bring new partners from across Europe into the group.

Roddick, the daughter of Body Shop founders Anita and Gordon Roddick, said: “The best documentaries challenge us to see the world differently and think the world differently. I’m proud to be supporting this essential community of artists, filmmakers and journalists. ” 

Ljungberg, who has been active in documentary since 2005 as part of the team behind The Devil Came on Horseback, said: “Learning from best practice in the US, we know individual funders can play a hugely constructive role in supporting what is a golden era in documentary filmmaking. We are delighted to spearhead this new movement in Europe and encourage others to join us.”

Applications are currently by invitation only. Britdoc, a not-for-profit film foundation based in London and partnered with broadcaster Channel 4, will be administering the new scheme.

First recipients

The first two grantees to benefit from Britdoc Circle are from Denmark and the UK.

If I Can’t Dance (It’s Not My Revolution)

  • Director: Anonymous
  • Producers: Jesper Jack at Fridthjof Film Doc, David B Sorensen at Dharmafilm

During the Syrian uprising a woman leaves her home and former life not realising that there will be no turning back. She goes on the road to search for Syria’s future - documenting everything as she moves through the conflict-torn country with a younger female friend by her side. Amidst a terrible war they celebrate new possibilities and newly found freedoms but also suffer growing frustrations. Will the new Syria represent their personal revolutions?

In Your Voice, In Your Heart

  • Directors: Edward Lovelace & James Hall
  • Producer: Lucas Ochoa at Pulse Films

When one man’s world is shattered by a devastating stroke, he fights back from the brink of death to discover that life and love are greater than he could have ever imagined. In Your Voice, In Your Heart is based on the experiences of musician Edwyn Collins who suffered a devastating stroke in 2005. Left unable to walk or speak, any hope of recovery seemed unlikely. Yet in 2010, against all odds, he released the album ‘Losing Sleep’ to huge critical acclaim. This is the story of his journey back.

Topics