Chicago’s top docmakers speak at Doc Summit weekend

The London-based 2015 Documentary Summit returns to Chicago for the first time since 2013 this weekend, Oct. 3-4, at Chicago Filmmakers, presenting some of Chicago’s most acclaimed docmakers sharing their expertise on every step of the process.

Screenwriter/producer Andrew Zinnes, author of “The Guerilla Filmmakers Handbook” series, is coming in from LA to lead the Summit, starting with his introduction at 9:15 a.m. Saturday. 

Zinnes will be followed by speakers covering such topics as how to craft a story structure from either a new idea or a hard drive full of footage, characters and interviewing techniques, and delving into the theme and the depth of meaning behind the madness.

The afternoon session switches to the business side; tech specs needed to get a film accepted by festivals, distributors and ever-changing online ports, interactive and branded storyteller and legal issues of storytelling.

Filmmakers scheduled: IFP president Nicole Bernardi-Reis; Floyd Webb; Jeff Spitz; John Otterbacher and Bill Baykin from Tribeca Flashpoint; Kartemquin’s Maria Finitzo, Melody Gilbert and Beckie Stocchetti; Debra Tochinsky from Northwestern; Anuradha Rana, Isthmus Films; Nat Solti, Zero One Projects, attorney Jerry Glover.

Saturday’s case study will reveal how Shuli Eshel and Heidi Kanter made their compelling historically important  “A Voice Among the Silent,” from idea to distribution. In Sunday’s case study, Greg Jacobs and Bob Hercules will discuss their socially and politically important “School Project.” 

The weekend also provides an opportunity to connect, share and collaborate with fellow filmmakers over lunch and a Saturday mixer at 4 p.m.

At Chicago Filmmakers, 5243 N. Clark, doors open at 9 a.m.,

See the full schedule of speakers and subjects here

Tickets are $80 per day, $150 for the weekend and may be purchased here.