The NZ Film Commission is partnering with the International Film Academy (IFA) to provide a place in the IFA Masterclass for an NZFC funded emerging director. The Masterclass is taking place in Bologna, Italy from 25 June – 7 July 2026 and consists of two parallel programmes, led by this year’s Master Teachers: Lynne Ramsay and Lav Diaz. Participants will, in teams, develop, produce, and premiere a short film, working side by side with the Master Teachers who will share their personal approach and cinematic philosophy.
To be eligible to submit, applicants must be:
the director of a Catalyst funded short that has had a funding offer on or after July 1 2024; or
attached as director to a feature film that has secured NZFC development funding on or after July 1 2024; and
not have been a director on a produced feature film or produced long-form scripted television (45+ minutes per episode).
IFA will select the participants from the applications received. Tuition fees and a travel grant will be provided by the NZFC.
Application deadline is the 20th May 2026.
To apply, please submit directly to the IFA - Apply now.
Applications must include the following material:
CV
Showreel link
Motivation letter
More information about the Masterclass and Master Teachers can be found here - Masterclass format.