After a successful first edition, the Söderlångvik Masterclass will take place once again from 20-22 September. A fruitful collaboration between the arts fund Konstsamfundet and Helsinki International Film Festival, the masterclass will welcome 12 Nordic film professionals with varying expertise into an insightful weekend that will focus on artificial intelligence, an emerging topic that has yet to be fully explored in the filmmaking field. The application period is 23.7-11.8.
The Söderlångvik Masterclass launched last spring, hosting 11 Nordic filmmaking talents at the scenic Amos Anderson’s Söderlångvik manor on Kimito Island, Finland. Under the skillful guidance of actor Alma Pöysti, the group explored the intersections between acting and directing. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants signalled the need for this collaborative project to continue into future editions, expanding into new themes.
Following the Masterclass premise of interdisciplinary creation and with the goal of fostering groundbreaking ways of thinking, this autumn edition will invite 12 film professionals with differing expertise ranging between directing, producing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, costume design and set design.
The long weekend will centre on critical thinking and creativity around the theme of AI in filmmaking, promising practical exercises and in-depth discussions: how can AI be in service of filmmaking? What will filmmaking look like in the future, and what skills are needed for new talents to be competitive? By delving into these questions and exploring new intersections in filmmaking, the Söderlångvik Masterclass is creating a rare and much needed space for film professionals to expand their creative potential.
“The first Söderlångvik Masterclass was a big success, with only a fraction of applicants being accepted into it. That is why we are pleased with the next edition being organised already in the autumn. The Masterclass is a concrete way for Konstsamfundet to support the film industry, the development of talents within it, and the creation of Nordic networks”, expressed Stefan Björkman, Föreningen Konstsamfundet’s CEO.
The masterclass will be led by Umberto Onza, an internationally renowned Design Director specialised in product design, generative AI, innovative brand experiences, and storytelling. Working in an international advertising agency, Onza leads creative projects and educates agencies globally on the use of generative AI. His acclaimed project Kalevala showcases his ability to blend AI tools with storytelling, reimagining Finland’s national epic through the styles of Wes Anderson and Aki Kaurismäki.
“I hope participants will leave this masterclass with a deeper understanding of the transformative potential of AI in the film and audiovisual industry. My wish is for them to feel inspired and equipped to integrate innovative AI solutions into their creative processes, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and production to new heights,” Onza shared.
The open call for participants begins on Tuesday, 23rd of July, and will remain open until August 11th. A jury will select 12 talented and motivated filmmaking professionals whose diversity of backgrounds and professional expertise will allow the group not only to exchange experiences and perspectives but also to comprehensively explore the technological possibilities of AI in filmmaking.
More information about the masterclass program and applying can be found here.