Asian Film Awards Academy announces second edition of International Film Camp

John Chong, center

The Asian Film Awards Academy announced the second edition of the International Film Camp (IFC) and opened applications at a press conference on Friday at The Langham, Hong Kong.

The camp, aimed at nurturing the new generation of Asian filmmakers, is now accepting applicants until July 20.

The camp will be held from September 11 to 15 at Sands China’s integrated resorts.

It provides a platform for young filmmakers from Macau, Hong Kong, and across Asia to exchange ideas and build skills needed to create feature-length films and develop careers in the industry.

According to organizers, veteran Asian film professionals will offer one-on-one mentoring focused on creativity and the business side of filmmaking.

Through masterclasses and panel discussions, participants will enhance their creative potential, industry knowledge, and practical skills.

Additionally, winners may receive sponsorship to fund their productions and opportunities to screen their films at international festivals through the Asian Film Awards Academy.

Last year’s IFC attracted over 500 applications, with 16 participants selected.

Eight projects received mentorship, funding, and promotion. Two winning Hong Kong films premiered at the 27th Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy, while others were invited to festivals in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Cambodia.

This year, renowned Hong Kong filmmaker John Chong serves as chief mentor.

With over 100 films to his name, including Cloud Atlas and the Infernal Affairs series, Chong encourages perseverance and continuous learning.

“The most important thing is to keep learning because the world is changing rapidly, and the market is changing rapidly,” he told the Times.

Chong stressed perseverance as key to success.

“They may not be successful in the near future, but the issue is whether you enjoy making films, and if so, it’s okay,” he explained.

When asked about challenges facing younger filmmakers, Chong noted how the landscape has shifted.

“Audiences have many choices and many ways to see films and entertainment,” he said. “That’s why filmmakers should be really good and attract the audience.” He emphasized broad learning, including reading widely and absorbing diverse data.

Chong also highlighted the growing role of technology.

“Young filmmakers may be good at computers and AI skills, which is very important,” he said. “Junior scriptwriters could be replaced by AI, so we have to become senior scriptwriters who control AI, not the other way around.”

On platforms like the International Film Camp, Chong said they provide invaluable exposure. “Mentors come from Asia, Europe, and America. It’s a very good opportunity for young filmmakers to open their eyes,” he said. “That’s why we keep doing it.”

For this edition, applicants must submit an original script on the theme “My Best Friend.” 16 finalists will be chosen for the five-day intensive program in Macau, where they will pitch projects for a chance to win HKD300,000 to fund their films.

Grant Chum, chief executive officer and executive director of Sands China Ltd., remarked, “Films are the best medium to tell a city’s story and the most direct way to promote cultural tourism. By making Macau an epicenter for movie productions, the synergy between film arts and the tourism industry […] comprehensively enhances its visibility, allowing it to shine more brightly on the international stage.”

IFC 2025 is organized by the Asian Film Awards Academy with support from the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of Hong Kong and the Cultural Affairs Bureau. Lynzy Valles, Hong Kong