SIFF AND TRUE PRODUCTIONS TO PARTNER ON FILMMAKERS GRANT

SEATTLE -- May 23, 2015 -- SIFF announced today an exciting new partnership with local production company, True Productions, to underwrite a $50,000 annual documentary grant for filmmakers. This inaugural grant, generously supported by True Productions and its principals Dwayne and Terese Clark, marks the beginning of a three-year commitment. This significant grant expresses the two partners' shared investment in the local filmmaking community, the filmmaking process, and the art of true storytelling through the lens.

Each year of the grant will revolve around a theme; 2015's theme will be the very real and increasingly relevant theme of aging, the elderly, and dementia, a subject particularly close to Dwayne's heart. In addition to his work with True Productions, Dwayne Clark is the founder and CEO of Aegis Living, a network of 30 assisted living communities throughout Washington, Arizona, and Nevada. Each filmmaker will be asked to take this theme and bring it alive in their own way.

"Independent film is what keeps the world of cinema fresh and dynamic, challenging the status quo and presenting new viewpoints for filmgoers to experience. What an an incredible resource this will be for filmmakers to tell their stories," says Carl Spence, SIFF's Artistic Director. Adds Mary Bacarella, SIFF's Managing Director, "This grant presents us with an opportunity to continue our mission to support that important work - it's even better that we have such advocates as Dwayne and Teresa Clark to convey this message. We are thrilled to be working with True Productions to support the extraordinary voices working in our film community."

The submitted films will be reviewed by representatives from both SIFF and True Productions, as well as experts from the local film industry. In addition, the winning documentary will be considered for the Seattle International Film Festival.

Notes Dwayne Clark, "Part of our mission with True Productions is to empower talented local filmmakers to bring their true stories to play out on the big screen.  We're excited about launching this grant with an important theme this year near and dear to anyone who has a loved one affected by dementia or aging issues. Great things will come of this opportunity, given Seattle's talented pool of filmmakers."

Eligibility:

• Applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• Project cannot be a work for hire.
• Documentary must be a minimum length of 50 minutes.
• Applicant must be in a key creative role for the film: ideally, the producer or director.
• One of the three elements of aging, elderly or dementia must be used for the theme of the documentary.

Evaluation Criteria:

• Project reflects excellence in storytelling and visual style.
• Filmmaker clearly articulates the intended theme and goal for the grant.
• Filmmaker demonstrates how the grant will impact short- and long-term professional and artistic goals.

Restrictions:

• Filmmaker may not be SIFF employee or board member.
• Filmmaker may not be a full-time student.
• Project cannot be a work for hire.
• Only one application per project will be accepted.

Information on deadlines and how to apply will be announced at SIFF.net by June 26.

About SIFF

Founded in 1976, SIFF creates experiences that bring people together to discover extraordinary films from around the world with the Seattle International Film Festival, SIFF Cinema, and SIFF Education. Recognized as one of the top film festivals in North America, the Seattle International Film Festival is the largest, most highly attended film festival in the United States, reaching more than 150,000 annually. The 25-day festival is renowned for its wide-ranging and eclectic programming, presenting over 450 features, short films, and documentaries from over 80 countries each year. SIFF Cinema exhibits premiere theatrical engagements, repertory, classic, and revival film showings 365 days a year on five screens at the SIFF Cinema Uptown, SIFF Cinema Egyptian, and SIFF Film Center, reaching more than 150,000 attendees annually. SIFF Education offers educational programs for all audiences serving more than 13,000 students and youth in the community with free programs each year.

About True Productions

True Productions is a Seattle-based film, theater and media production company where "art meets heart."  Founded by author, playwright and CEO of Aegis Living, Dwayne Clark and his wife Terese Clark, True Productions is committed to bringing true life stories aimed at enlightening, entertaining and inspiring. 

About Aegis Living 

Aegis Living is a national leader in retirement, assisted living and Alzheimer's care providing the finest in senior lifestyle emphasizing health, quality of life, well-being and community. Aegis Living is guided by a simple philosophy: strive to treat all people with the highest possible standards. Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Redmond, Washington privately held Aegis Living operates 30 communities in Washington, California and Nevada. Additional information about Aegis Living and its services are available at www.AegisLiving.com. Follow us on Twitter @aegisliving and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/AegisLiving

###