Master Teacher and Participant Announced for Italian Filmmaking Educational Program 'IFA Masterclass in Filmmaking'

The Visual Industry Promotion Organization (VIPO), a nonprofit organization (President: Takayuki Matsutani, Chuo City, Tokyo), announces the selection of one participant for the 'IFA Masterclass in Filmmaking,' hosted by the International Filmmaking Academy (IFA) in Bologna, Italy. This initiative is part of 'Film Nexus - Pro,' a project funded by the Cultural Arts Activity Infrastructure Strengthening Fund (commonly known as the Creator Support Fund), established by the Japan Arts Fund with support from the Agency for Cultural Affairs.

About the Program

◆ Overview

The IFA Masterclass in Filmmaking is a two-week intensive program held annually in Bologna, Italy, by the International Filmmaking Academy (IFA), designed for outstanding young filmmakers and professionals selected from around the world.

Approximately 30 participants (10 directors, 10 cinematographers, and 10 assistant directors) recommended by international organizations and institutions will attend, gaining opportunities to develop their artistic identity and professional vision.

Week 1: Lectures by the Master Teacher

The goal is to share personal experiences, aesthetics, and creative approaches, delving deeply into the practical aspects of filmmaking.

Week 2: Short Film Production (Shooting and Editing) at Various Locations Around Bologna

Italy's filmmaking network will provide support by serving as location managers, casting directors, and other crew roles for all participants.

On the final day of the masterclass, the short films created during the program will have their world premiere at the Il Cinema Ritrovato film festival, held concurrently in Bologna.

◆ Master Teacher Introduction

©Hazel Orencio

Director Lav Diaz

Born in the Philippines in 1958, Lav Diaz is one of the most distinctive and influential filmmakers in contemporary world cinema. He has continuously explored profound themes such as his homeland's historical background, social transformations, collective memory, and identity through his films.

Unbound by the conventions of Hollywood-style commercial cinema, Diaz employs long takes, minimalistic structures, and striking black-and-white visuals to invite audiences into deep contemplation and a fundamental engagement with the essence of cinema.

Following acclaimed works such as 'The Woman Who Left,' which won the Golden Lion at the Venice International Film Festival, his recent project 'Magellan' (working title, 2025) continues to expand the possibilities of cinematic expression by examining history and power through a unique philosophical lens.

As a leading figure in global cinematic art, Lav Diaz's masterclass offers a rare and invaluable opportunity to deeply study film as a medium of expression and social commentary.

◆ Selected Participant (Name without honorific)

Takeshi Kogahara

Graduated from the Film Department at Art Center College of Design in California.

Works as a director for films, music videos, and commercials. In 2017 and 2018, his feature film screenplay 'Nagisa' was consecutively selected as the Japanese representative for the Sundance Institute NHK Screenwriting Award. In 2019, the same project was selected for Filmmakers Talent Tokyo. His debut feature film 'Nagisa' received special recognition at the Tokyo International Film Festival and the Torino Film Festival, and was screened at the San Sebastian International Film Festival, Spain's largest international film festival.

(Website: https://takeshilalala.com/)

For details on the application process

The masterclass will commence next week. We sincerely hope that the Japanese participant, through direct engagement with world-class talent and a stimulating environment, will cultivate a global perspective and emerge as a leading figure in Japan's future film industry.

[Organizer and Contact] Visual Industry Promotion Organization (VIPO) Email: [email protected] *Please use the subject line: 'IFA Masterclass' / (Full Name)