At a press conference Friday at The Langham in Hong Kong, the Asian Film Awards Academy announced that the second edition of the International Film Camp (IFC) will be held at Sands China’s integrated resorts from Sept. 11–15, 2025.
The Academy also announced the opening of applications for the camp, which is aimed at nurturing the new generation of Asian filmmakers. It is open to applicants now until July 20.
IFC 2025 is organised by the Asian Film Awards Academy with the patronage of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Government and the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDAHK), the Film Development Fund (FDF) of the Hong Kong SAR Government, and Sands China Ltd., and with Shaw Studios as the official post-production partner.
The International Film Camp 2025 offers a platform for young filmmakers from Macao, Hong Kong, and other Asian regions to exchange ideas and equip themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to create feature-length works and develop careers in the film industry.
IFC brings veteran Asian film professionals to give individualised guidance to the participants, focusing on both creativity and the industry’s business aspects. Through masterclasses and panel discussions, the camp will help nurture young filmmakers by enriching their creative potential, increasing their industry knowledge, and sharpening their practical skills.
While building a solid foundation for a future in the cinema industry, camp participants have a chance to gain sponsorship to fund their productions and an opportunity to screen their creative works at film festivals worldwide through the Asian Film Awards Academy.
This year’s camp has invited John Chong, a renowned Hong Kong filmmaker, to be the chief mentor. Chong has made over 100 films, including “Cloud Atlas,” “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart,” “Initial D,” and the “Infernal Affairs” series. Applicants are asked to submit an original script on the theme “My Best Friend.” The esteemed panel of judges, led by Chong, will then review, evaluate, and conduct interviews to select this year’s 16 finalists for the five-day intensive programme in Macao.
Participants will receive one-on-one mentoring with well-established industry professionals, attend exclusive masterclasses, and pitch their final project for the opportunity to become one of the eight winners. Winners then receive HKD 300,000 (approx. US$38,000) in funding to carry out their creative vision for a chance to showcase their short films at film festivals around the world.
Those interested in the camp should visit the official International Film Camp website at https://www.afa-academy.com/round/ifc2nd/ to apply and to view eligibility requirements and other important details.
Dr. Wilfred Wong, chairman of the Asian Film Awards Academy, said: “With the collective support from different sectors, the first IFC was well-received. I would like to extend an invitation to all film enthusiasts and people interested in the film industry to join the second edition of IFC, as I believe that participants can inspire each other with creativity through their journey in Macao – a place where diverse cultures converge.”
Grant Chum, CEO and Executive Director of Sands China Ltd., added: “Films are the best medium to tell a city’s story, and the most direct form of promoting cultural tourism. By making Macao an epicentre for movie productions, the synergy between film arts and the tourism industry not only attracts tourists to experience the charm of the city first-hand but also comprehensively enhances its visibility, allowing it to shine more brightly on the international stage. For this reason, we are very honoured to be a sponsor of the International Film Camp for the second consecutive year.”
Sands China’s sponsorship of the International Film Camp 2025 aligns with its commitment to support the development of local artistic talent under the Macao SAR government’s strategy for moderate diversification, as well as the ‘tourism+’ and ‘culture+’ initiatives.
