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CALL FOR 2025 PROJECTS
NOW OPEN!

ABOUT

Built on the methodology and philosophy of CIRCLE Women Doc Accelerator, CIRCLE Fiction Orbit is an intensive one-week workshop taking place every November in Herceg Novi, Montenegro which aims to support directors, screenwriters, and producers who are developing their second or third fiction feature film. During the workshop, a carefully selected group of filmmakers will work with leading experts to advance their projects and identify their needs based on solidarity, knowledge exchange and a hands-on mentality. Selected participants receive feedback on their script, legal aspects and production options, including the best strategic choices and psychological support during their creative process.

CIRCLE FICTION ORBIT — THIRD EDITION OPEN CALL

Following two successful editions, CIRCLE is proud to launch the third edition of its tailor-made program for the fiction film industry: Fiction Orbit.

CIRCLE is currently seeking up to 6 strong fiction feature film projects in development, led by women and gender-expansive directors, writers, or producers who are working on their second, third or fourth feature film.

About CIRCLE Fiction Orbit

CIRCLE Fiction Orbit is an intensive one-week workshop designed to support filmmakers—directors, writers, and producers—developing their second, third or fourth fiction feature.

Throughout the program, a carefully selected group of participants will collaborate with leading international experts to advance their projects and gain insight into their creative and strategic needs. The workshop is built on principles of solidarity, knowledge exchange, and a hands-on, collaborative approach.The sessions are organised in a historical building turned into a top rated hotel by the sea in Montenegro. We put a lot of care in providing the most comfortable conditions for creative work.

Participants will receive:

In-depth script consultations
Guidance on legal and production strategies
Mentorship on career development and film positioning
Psychological support throughout the creative process

The program is led by Bianca Oana, award-winning producer and screenwriter, and

Head of Programme at CIRCLE Fiction Orbit.

📍 Location: Herceg Novi, Montenegro

Nearby airports: Dubrovnik 30km, Tivat 21km Podgorica 150km

📅 Dates: November, 23-29, 2025

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must:

Identify as women or gender-expansive
Be a screenwriter, director, or producer
Have at least one completed feature film
Submit a project that has a producer already attached

👉 Directors may apply individually or with a producer or screenwriter.

Fee & Scholarship

Participation fee is €1900 per person. It includes accommodation, meals, mentorship, and partner benefits. Travel expenses are not covered by the organiser, but we assist participants with the local airport transfers but we can provide official documents for funding bodies.

Scholarship Opportunity:

CIRCLE may award one scholarship covering 50% of the participation fee to a selected applicant from a low-capacity country with demonstrated financial need.