Best Documentary: Short (BDS)
The call for 2021 Best Serialized Story (BSS) entries & all 2021 Categories are now open. Ready to send in your work? Enter now.
Overview
Created in 2020, Best Documentary: Short (BDS) awards stories that are short on time, but not short on craft or ambition! We created this category because we believe that short- form audio stories deserve a platform and a spotlight—and are a different conceptual beast than longer documentary projects. We are looking for stories that accomplish the extraordinary in 10 minutes or less a short period of time.
Eligibility Information
- Length: 0-10 minutes
- Publication: Must have been published between February 1, 2019 and May 11, 2021.
- Format: One single audio file. All advertisements or sponsorship segments must be removed from the audio file — this includes previews for upcoming episodes of this or other programs.
- Language: There are no language requirements for this category. If you are entering work in a non-English language, you must provide a translated transcript.
Entry Fees
- More information on Best Documentary: Short entry fees can be found here.
Entry Checklist
- Audio file (mp3 preferred, WAV also accepted) with all ads removed
- Total length of the series (Minutes:Seconds)
- Link to a published version of the story
- Full credits (host, producer, sound designer, editor, etc.)
- Description/summary of your entry
- Transcript (optional for English-language series, required for non-English)
Best Documentary: Short FAQ
How do I enter this category?
If your entry meets the eligibility requirements above, you may select “Best Serialized Story” on the entry form.
Can I enter other categories too?
Yes. If you are entering the Best Documentary: Short category, your entry is automatically considered for Directors’ Choice. It may also be eligible for Best New Artist, Impact, Best Documentary in a Non-English Language, and others. It is not eligible for Best Documentary or Best Serialized Story.
What is the prize for winning a Best Documentary: Short award?
See the complete list of Prizes + Why Enter? including other reasons why you might consider entering our Competition.