IDFAcademy during IDFA

IDFAcademy during IDFA 2022

IDFAcademy during IDFA 2022 is open for applications from July 1.

Program

Taking place from November 10 to 13 in Amsterdam, IDFAcademy during IDFA is open to directors and producers making their first or second film, who have proven their talent on a national scale and would like to expand their career internationally. Although the program is not project-driven, participants should have a project or finished film during their attendance. This ensures that participants are constantly applying the general knowledge and advice to their own documentary during the four-day program. A new generation of filmmakers and producers is prepared to succeed on the international documentary market by creating an exchange between established professionals, institutes, and the filmmakers (directors and producers) of the future.

The four-day program includes sessions, such as Filmmaker Talks, where well-known directors and leading industry professionals from IDFA’s film selection share their experiences inspiring the participants in their own processes. As well, a combination of round table discussions, intimate group sessions, and case studies, are included towards learning about the international documentary market and current trends helping participants develop a broad view of the sector. Social events will take place daily to encourage new collaborations and increase the network of the participants.

Eligibility

• Directors and producers working on their first or second film.
• NOT eligible for film students.
• NOT eligible for filmmakers that have attended IDFAcademy during IDFA before.

Application process

You can apply to IDFAcademy during IDFA through the accreditation form here. Please take note of our accreditation guidelines before filling in the form.

The following information must be included when filling up the form:

• Biography
• Motivation – What do you hope to get out of the IDFAcademy program and how can your participation contribute to your career?
• Filmography
• Title and description of the project you are working on.
• Link to audio-visual materials from the project you are working or from previous work.

Optional:

• Letter of recommendation

Selection

Due to substantial number of applications, there is a process of selection in which approximately 60 filmmakers from different corners of the world will be chosen to come to Amsterdam.

Participants of other IDFA workshops are invited to participate in IDFAcademy.

IDFAcademy is one part of the talent development programs that IDFA has on offer for emerging filmmakers. Throughout the year, several project driven workshops take place both online and onsite. These filmmakers receive and invitation to participate in IDFAcademy during IDFA. By stimulating participation in various programs, each year IDFA can offer a new group of filmmakers a complete training cycle in which, in addition to working on their projects, they also gain knowledge and expand their network within the industry.

The results of the selection will be communicated at the beginning of October.

The cost of IDFAcademy pass is €200 excl. 9% VAT.

IDFA Film Student Route

Every year, IDFA and the Netherlands Film Academy organize the IDFA Film Student Route: a tailor-made program for film students from film academies and film schools. This is an inspiring route through the IDFA program that includes the latest developments in today’s international documentary industry. The IDFA Film Student Route includes, among other activities, the IDFA Film Academy Day at the Netherlands Film Academy, films from the IDFA 2022 program with Q&As, extensive masterclasses, and network opportunities with international film students and professionals. Attending students and teachers also receive a special group discount on the IDFA Guest Pass.

Is your film academy or film school interested in attending the IDFA Film Student Route in 2022? Then please contact IDFAcademy at idfacademy@idfa.nl.

IDFAcademy during IDFA 2021: In Amsterdam and online

IDFAcademy during IDFA 2021 took place both in-person and online, not as a hybrid event, but rather two consecutive programs designed for different needs of participants.

The in-person event took place from November 18 to 21 with 64 participants, who were split into smaller groups according to their professional needs. This way the program was more personal and tailored for those who can travel to Amsterdam, with round tables and feedback from professionals, which can now be more in-depth and detailed.

The online program for the smaller group of 20 participants unable to travel to Amsterdam, took place November 22 to 24, focused on the exchange of ideas, experiences, and feedback. They were able to follow pre-recorded talks and specially produced content with inspirational speakers from the studio live in Amsterdam and took part in group meetings.

The overall approach is intended to get each filmmaker the most accurately targeted possible support depending on their needs and the stage their projects are in, and to connect them to other segments of IDFA, letting them discover other exciting projects, directors, and producers.

IDFA's talent development program is made possible by The Netherlands Film Fund, Creative Europe Media and NPO Fund.