Frameworks, Screen Ireland/RTÉ’s animated short film scheme, undergoes major changes for 2020

Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland is delighted to announce that applications are now open for Frameworks, the RTÉ co-funded scheme for animated short films.

The structure of the scheme has undergone a number of key changes for 2020, following consultation with the industry. Up to four Frameworks projects will be selected to go into production:

• Up to two projects which will deliver an animated short film to a maximum duration of 2 minutes, for a budget of €20,000. This scheme is seeking high-quality, concise, imaginative storytelling to be delivered by filmmakers with professional animation experience. Successful applicants who may require assistance in specific areas will be guided and supported by mentoring, facilitated by Screen Skills Ireland, the skills development division of Screen Ireland.  
• Up to two projects which will deliver an animated short to a maximum duration of 5 minutes, for a budget of €70,000. Priority will be given to applicants who apply with the support of an established studio in order to deliver their film to the specification, budget and quality that this level of scheme demands.

These changes to the structure of the scheme reflect the desire to support filmmakers with existing experience who may need extra mentoring in specific areas of technique or animation production. Dividing the scheme into two categories will also give room to established animators who wish to produce high-quality, larger budget short films with a studio attached.

Frameworks is a flagship scheme for the Irish animation sector, and has produced award-winning films to a consistently high standard, including most recently Louise Bagnall’s Late Afternoon, which received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Short in 2019.

For more information on Frameworks, the updated 2020 scheme guidelines, and how to apply please click here.