Macao Hosts International Film Camp 2025 Supporting Emerging Asian Filmmakers

The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF), under chairman Hiroyasu Ando, has revitalized its program by relocating to the Hibiya-Ginza district and fostering international creative exchange through initiatives like the TIFF Lounge talks, featuring dialogues between Japanese and global filmmakers such as Hirokazu Kore-eda and Chloe Zhao. In parallel, the International Film Camp (IFC) 2025 in Macao, supported by Sands China Ltd. and organized by the Asian Film Awards Academy, continues to nurture young Asian filmmakers by offering mentorship, funding, and exposure, with 18 participants developing projects around the theme 'My Best Friend' and eight winners receiving substantial production grants. The IFC emphasizes practical training combined with professional support, facilitating cross-border collaboration and festival opportunities, as highlighted by program curator Roger Garcia and chief mentor John Chong. Participants, such as filmmaker Jane, have found the intensive camp transformative, gaining valuable creative insights and encouragement to pursue authentic storytelling. Both TIFF and IFC illustrate a growing commitment in Asia to foster cinematic talent and international dialogue, enhancing the region's cultural influence and creative industries.