FOSTERING FILMMAKERS
The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society (HKIFFS) and Nowness Asia have formally launched the Asian Short Film Fund (ASFF), offering aspiring directors and producers across the region financial backing and industry mentorship. The fund’s soft launch happened during Hong Kong FilMart in March.
The initiative, which opens for submissions May 7 through June 15, will select three projects to receive funding packages of up to $35,000 each. Winners will also benefit from mentorship by established Asian filmmakers and support throughout script development and production phases. Completed shorts will premiere at the milestone 50th Hong Kong International Film Festival in 2026.
Ten shortlisted projects will participate in an online pitch session in early August, followed by one-on-one mentor meetings. The three finalists will be announced later that month.
“The ASFF underscores our commitment to nurturing bold, original voices in Asian cinema,” said Albert Lee, executive director of HKIFFS. “By bridging creative talent with industry expertise, we aim to amplify stories that reflect the region’s dynamism and diversity.”
CARTOON COLLABORATION
Singapore’s Animation Nation festival and DreamWorks channel are joining forces to spotlight emerging animation talent across Southeast Asia with a newly established short film category for the 2025 ANSEA Awards. The competition invites both aspiring and professional filmmakers from ASEAN nations to submit two-minute original animated shorts exploring the theme of “family,” along with a 100-word synopsis.
Winners will receive mentorship opportunities with DreamWorks animators and strategic exhibition platforms, with the grand prize winner securing on-air exposure across DreamWorks channel’s multi-territory network. T
he judging panel brings together heavyweight industry talent, including Academy Award winner Brandon Oldenburg, GKIDS acquisitions director Rodney Uhler, animation curator H.J. Jinny Choo, and DreamWorks channel creative director Annette Cryan.
Submissions will be accepted through August 15, with finalists announced in September-October. The competition culminates with finalist screenings and winner announcements slated for October-November.
