International Film Camp Returns to Inspire a New Wave of Asian Filmmakers
Taking place from September 11 to 15, 2025, the International Film Camp offers a transformative experience with one-on-one mentorship, exclusive masterclasses, and pitching short film projects to expert panels.
Organised by the Asian Film Awards Academy, with patronages ofthe Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Governmentand the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, and the support of the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDAHK), the Film Development Fund (FDF) of the Hong Kong SAR Government, and Sands China Limited, and Shaw Studios as sponsors, the International Film Camp (IFC) 2025 officially launched today with a press conference announcing event details and the opening of submission. The event was attended by renowned film figures, including producer John CHONG; directors Stanley KWAN, Nick CHEUK, and Tracy CHOI; and actors Natalie HSU, LAM Yiu Sing, Rachel LEUNG, and LO Chun Yip. A short film with the four Youth Ambassadors of this year’s Asian Film Awards also premiered at the event, showcasing the diverse talents and vibrant presence of new generation Asian actors.
Last year, IFC drew an overwhelming response, with more than 500 applications from aspiring filmmakers across Asia. Among the selected projects, two Hong Kong productions—Sweet, Sour and Bitter… and Once upon a time there was a Mountain—had their world premieres this April at the 27th Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy. Speaking at the press conference, Dr. Wilfred WONG, Chairman of the Asian Film Awards Academy, emphasised IFC’s mission to nurture emerging Asian talents by offering hands-on creative experience and tailored professional guidance. This September, 16 selected applicants will be invited to a five-day intensive programme hosted at the integrated resorts operated by Sands China. Participants will benefit from one-on-one mentorship with established industry veterans, attend exclusive masterclasses, and pitch their short film projects to a panel of industry experts. Eight of them will each receive production funding of HKD 300,000 (approx. USD 38,000) to bring their vision to life, with the opportunity to showcase their short films at international festivals.
Grant Chum, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Sands China Limited, Chief Mentor John CHONG, and masterclass speaker Director Stanley KWAN also took the stage to share their thoughts. The two filmmakers emphasised that IFC offers a rare opportunity for budding directors to receive comprehensive support—from idea development to pitching and production—helping them refine their creative voice and cinematic language. Roger GARCIA, Director of IFC, also delivered a video message, encouraging young talents across Asia to apply and take part in this unique experience. Esteemed film professionals TENG Lee Yein and Mathew TANG will serve as advisors, while acclaimed directors CHAN Hing Kai, CHEN Daming, and Anthony CHEN will join as mentors. More renowned industry professionals will be joining. Stay tuned for the full lineup!
Directors Nick CHEUK and Tracy CHOI, joined by actor LO Chun Yip—who also has experience creating and starring in short films—shared how making shorts marked the beginning of their journey into the film industry. Reflecting on the challenges and lessons from their early days, they emphasised how valuable platforms like IFC are in offering the next generation of directors a vital space to learn and grow through real-world experience. Actors Natalie HSU, LAM Yiu Sing, and Rachel LEUNG offered their perspective as performers, reflecting on the excitement of working with new directors and participating in short film projects. They encouraged young creators to take that first step, highlighting that short films aren’t just practice—they’re a powerful gateway into cinematic storytelling and building creative connections.
For the first time, the press conference also unveiled a new short film featuring this year’s Asian Film Awards Youth Ambassadors: Aokbab Chutimon from Thailand, Austin LIN from Taiwan, LO Chun Yip from Hong Kong, and OKADA Masaki from. The film offers an intimate glimpse into the emotional journey of being an actor. It serves as their reflection on the past and their gaze toward what is to come. A celebration of cinema where to connect, transform, and reveal. The short film will be released soon on AFAA’s social media platforms.
How to Apply: International Film Camp 2025
The second International Film Camp will take place from 11 to 15 September 2025 at the integrated resorts operated by Sands China in Macao. Over five intensive days, selected participants will engage in a range of activities, including one-on-one mentorship sessions with veteran filmmakers, masterclasses, and panel discussions.
A pitching session at the end of the camp will give all 16 selected filmmakers the chance to present their short film projects to a panel of industry experts. Eight participants will each be awarded a production grant of HKD 300,000 (approx. USD 38,000) to produce a 15–25-minute short film, to be completed by December 2025..
The theme this year is “My Best Friend”. Applicants are invited to develop short film concepts inspired by stories of friendship, and personal bonds—revealing the ways young Asian creatives perceive and interpret human connections.
Applications open on 20 June 2025 until 20 July 2025.
Emerging filmmakers are welcome to apply. Key eligibility criteria include being between the ages of 21 and 40, of Asian nationality or origin, and having experience in short film or video production. Applicants must not have directed more than one feature-length film and should demonstrate strong creative potential.
To apply, candidates must submit a résumé (including that of their key team members, such as the producer), a one-page synopsis, a one-page statement outlining the project and the applicant’s career goals, a rough production budget, and a demo reel of their previous work. For full application details, please visit our website.
Application Link: https://www.afa-academy.com/round/ifc2nd/
Please contact us if any questions,
Email: info@afa-academy.com
Tel: +852 3195 0609
Website: www.afa-academy.com
