AFS treatment boilerplate

We'll discuss this more next class, but I thought I'd post it so that you all can take a look and think about how your doc might sound in this format...

Austin Film Society Proposal Boilerplate

A present-tense descriptive passage. Engage the reader and let them "see" a slice of your film.

"Lunchtime at the Blue Diner. Plates and silverware clatter over the sound of lunchtime conversation. 'Order up!' shouts the chef as he slides a heaping plate of home cookin' across the counter."

The What: length, format, genre- A 1-sentence "tagline" for the project.

"This 55-minute video documentary follows an afternoon at the 70-year-old diner, providing an introduction to a fascinating group of people along with a window into larger issues of social and economic change."

The How: What is the plot or the organizing structure of the work? What is the style?

"The video will follow Thelma, who has been a Blue Diner waitress for the past 24 years, through a 'typical' lunchtime rush and afternoon at the diner. Thelma's stories are woven together, incorporating a variety of styles including animation and montage. Observational footage will be augmented by period photos and film clips, as well as unfolding episodes involving current customers."

The Whys: Why this story? Why should you tell it? Why tell it now?

"This historic luncheonette will lose its lease at the end of the year. I am a member of a grassroots community coalition that is fighting to preserve the diner, but it is possible that it will be lost to the advance of 'progress.' It is imperative that the oral histories of the staff and clientele be preserved. Furthermore, the contrast between the unique personality of an owner-operated luncheonette and the ever-more pervasive homogenized culture of fast food outlets opens up important questions about the nature of our society and our future."

The Where: Where will this go? Who is your audience? What plans do you have for distribution?

"This story is ideal for PBS broadcast and affiliate stations in Austin and Dallas have expressed interest in my finished work.”

Finally, before submitting your proposal, have some people read it--at least one person not familiar with your project, and one who is. Listen to their feedback, and revise your proposal if necessary. And please check for grammar and spelling errors!