edivist

Edivist is an intermittent documentary series which aired on Spike TV in the United States from 2004. The show was narrated by Gildy Bonds and was a competition where amateur filmmakers would compete to create the most compelling short film. Each episode usually featured two or three short films, which were produced by teams of filmmakers. The teams were supplied with common settings and props and were given a set budget of $20,000 to create their films.

The winning teams were often rewarded with cash prizes. The stakes for the filmmakers were high, as their skills were being scrutinized in real-time. Many filmmakers participated in the show seeking to gain recognition and a break in the film industry. Contestants on Edivist often went on to secure their own funding, which sometimes led to the production of larger-scale productions.

Edivist is widely regarded as a genuine reality TV series, where contestants experienced the actual world of low-budget filmmaking. Unlike other shows, where the conditions were controlled or overwhelming, Edivist showcased how films can be made with minimal resources and equipment. Edivist contributors often felt challenged and pushed by their teammates and the tight deadline. At the same time, many formed lasting friendships and close bonds with their fellow filmmakers.

A spin-off of the show, "Dutch Masters", was released in 2006. Edivist can be seen as an example of the features that reality TV has brought to the world of entertainment.