In the first edition of MASO, up to eight creative teams (16 participants in total) were given the opportunity to realize their short film projects under the guidance of international experts.

With MASO #1, a new international training program for filmmakers was launched in 2024, dedicated to promoting diversity, inclusion, and emerging talent in short film. Initiated by IDM Film & Music Commission Südtirol in cooperation with the Bolzano Film Festival Bo-zen and further partners, MASO was aimed at filmmakers from underrepresented communi-ties. Applications were open worldwide.

The interest was high: 262 applicants from more than 45 countries submitted 131 projects – from which 8 short films were selected. Each project was developed by two talents, who received intensive support in story development, production, and preparation for the international festival circuit.

The participants met for two creative workshops – in November 2024 in Norway and in April 2025 in South Tyrol, Italy. The short films are further accompanied and supported throughout the pre-production phase up to distribution.

Alongside the creative development of the films, international exchange was also at the core of MASO #1. Renowned industry professionals guided the teams in workshops and mentoring sessions – from screenwriting and directing to production, financing, and distribution

Here you can find more information about the selected projects, the participating filmmakers, and the experts who shaped MASO #1.

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Advisory Board MASO #1

The advisory board of MASO consist of 5 film professionals, who will read and evaluate the submitted projects and make the selection of the final participating 8 teams.
The elements on which the committee will assess the projects are the artistic value and feasibility of the production, it is also important to present a film without clichés and stereotypical representation. 

More info!

Experts MASO #1

International experts will assist the participants of MASO - Short Film Training Programme while developing their ideas for short film projects.
Find out more about who will inspire participants and provide them with creative inputs to enrich the projects by reading the following section. 

More info!

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Kontakte

Fatima El Hajjaji

Film PR & Location Lead 

Jasmin Schenk Vitale

Short Film Funding & Film Location