OPEN CALL: ANIMATION PITCH (CLOSED)

PLAYGROUNDS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

! This call is now CLOSED !

Do you have a great idea for an animation film (feature or short)? Playgrounds is offering you the chance to kickstart your project.During Playgrounds International Film Festival, on Thursday 20 March we are organizing the Playgrounds Animation Pitch!  

At our freshly launched Playgrounds International Film Festival we let the craft of filmmaking take center stage and shine into the spotlight! Our film selection will showcases exquisite examples of art direction, production design, decor, VFX, costume design and everything in between. All the processes that help the audience fully immerse in the stories projected on the silver screen, turning them into unforgettable experiences 

However we are not just interested in finished works but also in landing a hand to upcoming projects! 

What are we looking for? 

Were looking for Dutch based makers with a clear concept. Youve already taken some steps to develop your ideas but havent received funding yet. You are able to come up with a first version of your logline and provide a first sketch or mood board. Youre able to share your expectations of this idea and are able to explain what your target audience is for this concept. You are at that crucial point: do I go ahead with this idea? 

 

What is in it for you? 

The winner of the pitch will receive €2500 to start developing their project. Butthat is not all. In order to prepare all shortlisted artists for this pitch, we offer an online workshop about pitching so you can develop and grow your skills in this field. The Animation Pitch Workshop will take place on Thursday, March 6th 2025 and all selected participants are expected to attend.  

On the day of the pitch, all shortlisted artists present their idea to a professional jury. Theyll also get the opportunity to have 1-on-1 conversations with them to extend their network and get extra feedback. 

 

How can you apply? 

  • Fill in the online form 
  • Deadline: 27 January 23.59h 2025 

 

Other questions we received 

Can I use the budget to reimburse myself to further develop my plan?  

Yes, you can, but also use this opportunity to already collaborate with a writer, a concept artist etc. 

Can I propose a project while I am not graduated yet?  

Yes, you can but we prefer young professionals. We developed the pitch to support emerging artists after they graduate to create and initiate their next autonomous project. 

I am not based in The Netherlands, but I am developing a project with another artist that is based in The Netherlands. Can I apply? 

Yes, you can, but only if the project is really a co-directing project with an equal share in artistic vision and creativity. 

GOOD TO KNOW

  •  You dont have to be Dutch to apply, but you do need to live and work in the Netherlands. 
  • The application must be in English 
  • You cannot apply if you already have some funding for your project and are looking to increase your budget. 

What does the pitch entail? 

You’ll be making a presentation of 4 minutes (in English), of your project / idea,  with supporting imagery.  

The pitch will be followed by a 10 minutes feedback session from the jury.  

Keep in mind that the pitch session is open for the audience of Playgrounds International Film Festival to attend. 

 

Schedule / Important dates 

  • Online info meeting: Wednesday 22 January 14:00 we are open to answer all your questions regarding the call: www.whereby.com/plgr 
  • Deadline open call: 27 January 23.59h 2025 
  • Announcement shortlist participants Animation Pitch – by 7 February 
  • Thursday 6 March, 10:00 – 12:00 CET Online Animation Pitch Workshop by Nicky Onstenk. During this session, she will help you structure your pitch and provide presentation tips. This workshop is mandatory for selected participants. 
  • Thursday 20 MarchPlaygrounds Animation Pitch during Playgrounds International Film Festival + network meetings. 
OPENING NIGHT
with Aaron Blaise, Studio Birthplace, Next and Nawa Sira van Sluijs
artist talk, short film program
ARCANE
watch season 2 episode 1 & 2 on the big screen
film screening
THE ART OF THE 20 MIN PITCH
master the 20-minute pitch with Chris Mack (Netflix)
artist talk
I’M NOT A ROBOT
oscar shorts
short film program
MICKEY 17 (2025)
d. Bong Joon Ho
film screening
FILM COURSE: DESIGNING WORLDS
explore the core of production design
masterclass
STOP MOTION MAGIC
Aardman classics with Niels Hoebers
short film program, kids program
WORKSHOP: FLIPBOOK ANIMATION
with Aaron Blaise
workshop, kids program
SNOW BEAR
opening night
film screening, film fest
WORKSHOP: HOW TO MAKE A FILM WITH PAPER
with Vera van Wolferen
workshop, kids program
WANDER TO WONDER
oscar shorts
short film program
BEAUTIFUL MEN
oscar shorts
short film program
STOP MOTION CLASSICS
Aardman classics with Dan Ojari
short film program
FABULA (2025)
d. Michiel ten Horn
film screening
STUDENT FILM COMPETITION
official selection of student films
short film program
IK ZAL ZIEN (2025)
d. Mercedes Stalenhoef
film screening
THE JUNGLE BOOK (2016)
d. Jon Favreau
film screening
THE ART OF HAIR AND MAKE UP DESIGN
elevating storytelling with expert makeup & hair design
artist talk
GIVING A NEW VOICE TO ARCHIVAL MATERIAL
reclaiming history, redefining identity
artist talk
V FOR VENDETTA (2005)
d. James McTeigue
film screening
BEHIND THE SCENES OF AMSTERDAMNED 2
from photographer to film producer
artist talk
STORIES IGNITING ACTION
reclaiming storytelling for a healthy world
artist talk
MAKING MAGIC ON A BUDGET
learn how to create amazing films on a budget
artist talk
THROUGH THE LENS
pick the brains of experienced cinematographers
panel, Q&A
ANIMATION PITCH
keep an eye on future projects
pitch
REAL STORIES
hybrid documentaries
short film program
NEXT GEM
showcase of bright talent
short film program
SAUCY SELECTION
enjoy a saucy selection of short films by female and queer directors
short film program
MEETUP FOR INTERMEDIARIES AND EDUCATORS
get a taste of what Playgrounds International Film Festival is about
Q&A, education
EXPLORE OUR VENUE: NATLAB
practical info about the location
venue
FILMHELPDESK SPEED DATES
custom advice for your particular filmmaking challenge
Q&A
CINEMINI X PIFF
special program for the youngest cinephiles
short film program, kids program
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
connect young generations to the art of filmmaking
short film program, education
GREENER FILM MAKING
create with an eye on the future
panel, Q&A