The Söderlångvik Masterclass, a proven success in collaboration between Föreningen Konstsamfundet and Helsinki International Film Festival, returns for its second year this spring. The upcoming edition will proudly welcome Oscar®-nominated director and screenwriter Magnus von Horn as its lead. From May 9–11, a select group of 12 Nordic directors and screenwriters will immerse themselves in character development in filmmaking, broadening and sharpening their creative perspectives. The application period runs from March 11 to April 1.
Launched in 2024 with two carefully crafted editions, the Söderlångvik Masterclass offers immersive, high-level retreats where a group of Nordic filmmaking talents hone crucial skills and expand their networks. Led by acclaimed actor Alma Pöysti, the first masterclass examined the intersections between acting and directing, followed by an autumn edition where Design Director Umberto Onza explored the role of AI in filmmaking.
As part of its industry programme Helsinki International Film Festival proudly fosters Nordic collaboration and cross-disciplinary exchange, looking ahead to the future. With a focus on elevating industry professionals’ creativity, the open call will select six directors and six screenwriters from across the region— this interplay between disciplines promises a weekend of rich discussions and varied perspectives.
The upcoming third Söderlångvik Masterclass will be led by Swedish-Polish director and screenwriter Magnus von Horn, whose latest feature, The Girl with the Needle, was nominated for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards, Best Motion Picture – Non-English Language at the Golden Globe Awards, and received widespread accolades at numerous film festivals. With a recognized career since his debut feature The Here After (2015), which premiered at Cannes Film Festival, von Horn has captivated audiences with his provocative portrayals of human nature. Based in Poland but with a strong Nordic presence in his work—filming in Sweden and most recently in Denmark—von Horn brings to the Söderlångvik Masterclass a distinctive creative vision that will inspire participants.
“I am very excited about leading the Söderlångvik Masterclass this year. Over the course of three days we will discuss the process of filmmaking with aspiring writers and directors preparing their feature films. We will focus on how the main character of a story can become a guiding light of comfort in the struggle of choices a film challenges us with,” von Horn expressed.
Developing Main Characters in Filmmaking, the theme of this upcoming edition, aligns with one of von Horn’s most celebrated strengths—his ability to craft layered characters who confront the darkest sides of themselves, while remaining relatable to the audience.
“The master couldn’t be better: Magnus von Horn has an extremely interesting profile and I’m counting on that his name will attract participants from all over the Nordics”, expressed Stefan Björkman, Föreningen Konstsamfundet’s CEO.
The open call for participants begins on Tuesday, 11th of March, and is open until April 1st. More information about the masterclass program and applying can be found at [link to website]. More information about HIFF industry activities can be found here.
For more information:
Lydia Taylerson
Masterclass Producer
lydia@hiff.fi / +358 451349812
For interview requests:
Lois Armas
Masterclass Communications
lois@hiff.fi / +358 445250887